Field & Stream 1871 Gun Safe Manual: A Comprehensive Guide

This manual details operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe, covering electronic lock functions, manual overrides, and essential care procedures.

Understanding Your Field & Stream 1871 Gun Safe

Congratulations on selecting a Field & Stream 1871 gun safe! This robust safe is engineered to provide secure storage for your firearms and valuables. Before operation, familiarize yourself with its features and components. The safe incorporates both electronic and manual locking systems, offering redundancy in case of power failure or electronic malfunction.

Understanding the locking mechanism is crucial. The electronic lock allows for personalized security codes, while the manual override provides access using a key or combination dial. Proper battery installation, located within the front styrofoam packaging, is essential for electronic lock functionality. Remember to consult the included documentation for detailed instructions on code setting and operation.

This safe is designed for long-term reliability, but regular maintenance, as outlined in this manual, will ensure optimal performance and security. Always prioritize safety precautions when handling firearms and accessing the safe.

Safety Precautions & Important Warnings

Prioritize safety when operating your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe. Always practice responsible firearm handling and adhere to all local and federal regulations regarding gun ownership and storage. Keep the safe’s combination and key separate and secure, limiting access to authorized individuals only.

Warning: Never attempt to modify the safe’s locking mechanism or internal components. Unauthorized alterations can compromise security and void the warranty. Ensure the battery is correctly installed to prevent lock malfunctions. If encountering issues, refer to the troubleshooting section before attempting repairs.

Important: Keep children and unauthorized individuals away from the safe and its operating instructions. Regularly inspect the safe for any signs of damage or tampering. In case of emergency access, utilize the trouble key carefully, following the provided instructions to avoid damaging the locking system.

Safe Features & Components

The Field & Stream 1871 boasts robust construction, an advanced locking system, and customizable interior shelving designed for secure firearm storage and organized accessibility.

Exterior Features of the 1871 Model

The Field & Stream 1871 gun safe presents a durable steel construction, designed to withstand potential break-ins and environmental factors. Its exterior showcases a robust body, providing a secure enclosure for your firearms and valuables. The safe’s finish is typically a scratch-resistant paint, ensuring longevity and maintaining its appearance over time.

Key exterior elements include a heavy-duty door reinforced with steel, and a secure handle for operation. The safe is equipped with pre-drilled holes for bolting it to the floor or wall, enhancing its security and preventing unauthorized removal. Careful consideration should be given to the safe’s placement, ensuring adequate space for door swing and access. The overall design prioritizes both security and a relatively discreet appearance, blending into various home environments.

Interior Layout & Adjustable Shelving

The Field & Stream 1871 gun safe’s interior is designed for flexible firearm storage, featuring a combination of shelving and dedicated gun racks. The shelving system is primarily adjustable, allowing customization to accommodate various firearm sizes and accessories. Users can reconfigure the shelf heights to maximize vertical space and organize their collection efficiently.

Typically, the safe includes multiple adjustable shelves constructed from sturdy steel or a similar durable material. These shelves can support significant weight, suitable for storing ammunition, cleaning supplies, and other related items. The gun racks are often padded to protect firearm finishes and prevent scratches. The interior layout aims to provide both secure storage and easy access to your firearms, promoting responsible gun ownership and organization.

Locking Mechanism Overview

The Field & Stream 1871 gun safe employs a multi-faceted locking mechanism designed for robust security. This system typically integrates an electronic lock with a manual override feature, ensuring access even in the event of electronic failure. The primary locking component is a high-security electronic keypad, requiring a user-defined code for operation.

Beyond the electronic lock, a secondary locking system utilizing a cross bar and rotating hubs provides a manual backup. This allows access via a combination dial and key, offering redundancy. The locking bolts, multiple in number and constructed from hardened steel, extend into the safe’s frame, resisting forced entry. Proper maintenance, including lubrication, is crucial for smooth and reliable locking mechanism performance, safeguarding your firearms.

Electronic Lock Operation

The electronic lock provides convenient access, requiring a programmed security code for operation. Battery installation is the initial step, followed by code entry for unlocking the safe.

Entering Your Security Code

To unlock your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe using the electronic keypad, begin by ensuring the safe door is fully closed and latched. Gently press the keypad to activate the display. Carefully enter your pre-programmed security code, paying close attention to accuracy. Avoid rushing this process to prevent errors.

Upon successful code entry, you should hear an audible confirmation – a beep or tone – indicating the lock is disengaging. Simultaneously, the indicator light will likely change color, signaling readiness for door opening. If an incorrect code is entered, the system will typically provide a visual or auditory warning, and you’ll need to re-enter the correct code.

Remember to protect your security code and avoid sharing it with unauthorized individuals. Regularly review and potentially update your code for enhanced security. Refer to the safe’s full manual for specific code programming instructions and troubleshooting tips related to code entry failures.

Turning The Keypad Sound Off/On

The Field & Stream 1871 gun safe’s electronic lock offers an option to control the keypad’s audible feedback. This feature allows users to silence the beeps associated with code entry, providing discreet operation, or to re-enable the sound for confirmation. Typically, this function is accessed through a specific sequence of button presses on the keypad itself.

Consult your safe’s detailed manual for the exact procedure, as it may vary slightly depending on the model. Generally, it involves holding down a designated key – often the ‘#’ or ‘*’ key – for a few seconds while simultaneously pressing another button. The display should indicate whether the sound is being turned on or off.

Consider your environment and personal preferences when deciding whether to enable or disable the keypad sound. Silencing the sound can be useful in sensitive locations, while enabling it provides clear feedback during operation. Remember to document the procedure for future reference.

Battery Replacement Procedures

Maintaining fresh batteries in your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe’s electronic lock is crucial for reliable operation. Low batteries can lead to lock malfunctions and potential access issues. Typically, the safe utilizes standard alkaline batteries, often AA size, located within the front protective styrofoam of the lock mechanism;

To replace the batteries, begin by accessing the battery compartment – usually behind a removable cover on the keypad assembly. Carefully remove the old batteries, noting the correct polarity (+ and -). Insert new batteries, ensuring proper alignment. The safe may require a brief reset after battery replacement; consult the manual for specific instructions.

It’s recommended to replace batteries annually, even if the low battery warning hasn’t activated, to prevent unexpected lockouts. Keep a record of the replacement date for future reference and always use high-quality batteries for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Electronic Lock Issues

If you encounter problems with your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe’s electronic lock, several steps can help resolve the issue. First, verify the batteries are fresh and correctly installed; low batteries are a common cause of malfunctions. Ensure the keypad is clean and free of debris that might interfere with button presses.

If the lock isn’t responding, attempt a reset by entering a known valid code followed by the ‘#’ key. If this fails, consult the manual for specific reset procedures for your model. A slow keypad response might indicate low batteries or internal lock issues.

For persistent problems, avoid forceful manipulation of the lock. Consider contacting a qualified locksmith specializing in gun safe locks for assistance. Document any error messages displayed on the keypad for accurate troubleshooting.

Manual Override & Key Access

This section details emergency access methods, including utilizing the trouble key and rotating the cross bar for combination access, ensuring safe retrieval when needed.

Using the Trouble Key (Emergency Access)

The trouble key provides a crucial bypass for situations where the electronic lock malfunctions or the combination is forgotten. Locate the keyhole, typically found near the lock mechanism, and carefully insert the trouble key.

Gently apply pressure and turn the key clockwise; avoid forcing it, as this could damage the internal components. Once the key is turned, the locking bolts should disengage, allowing you to open the safe door.

Remember that using the trouble key overrides the programmed security code, and it’s essential to address the underlying issue with the electronic lock afterward. After gaining access, investigate the cause of the lock failure – potentially a dead battery or a malfunctioning keypad.

Document the use of the trouble key and consider contacting a qualified locksmith for a permanent repair or reprogramming of the electronic lock to restore full security functionality.

Rotating the Cross Bar for Combination Access

When the electronic lock is disabled or for manual access, rotating the cross bar is necessary. First, pull the cross bar firmly towards you. This action prepares the mechanism for rotation, allowing access to the internal locking components.

Once pulled, rotate the cross bar to the right, utilizing the dial on the opposite side for assistance. This dial aids in smoothly transitioning the cross bar to align with the subsequent locking hubs. Ensure a controlled rotation to prevent damage or misalignment.

After aligning with the second hub, continue rotating until it reaches the final locking position. Following rotation, securely tighten the nut precisely 3-1/2 turns. Finally, carefully bend the locking fingers over the nut to fully engage the locking mechanism and secure the safe door.

Tightening the Nut & Bending Locking Fingers

Following successful cross bar rotation, securing the mechanism requires precise nut tightening. Rotate the nut clockwise exactly 3-1/2 turns. This specific measurement is crucial for proper engagement of the locking system and ensures the safe door remains securely fastened. Avoid over-tightening, as this could damage the internal components.

After tightening the nut, the final step involves bending the locking fingers. Carefully bend these fingers over the nut, effectively locking them into position. This action provides an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access.

Ensure the locking fingers are firmly bent and securely positioned over the nut. This confirms complete engagement of the manual locking system. Regular inspection of these fingers is recommended to verify their integrity and functionality, maintaining optimal safe security.

Safe Maintenance & Care

Regular cleaning, bolt work inspection, and hinge maintenance are vital for longevity. Lubrication prevents corrosion, ensuring smooth operation and reliable security for your Field & Stream safe.

Cleaning & Lubrication

Maintaining a clean and lubricated safe is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Dust and debris can accumulate, hindering smooth operation of the locking mechanism and potentially causing corrosion; Regularly wipe down both the interior and exterior surfaces with a soft, dry cloth.

For lubrication, use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for firearms or safes – avoid oil-based products as they can attract dust. Apply a small amount to the locking bolts, hinges, and handle, working it into the mechanisms;

Pay particular attention to the bolt work, ensuring it moves freely. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess lubricant can also attract dirt. Inspect for any signs of rust or corrosion during cleaning; address these promptly with appropriate rust removal products. Consistent cleaning and lubrication will contribute significantly to the reliable functioning of your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe for years to come.

Bolt Work Inspection & Maintenance

Regular inspection of the bolt work is paramount for ensuring your safe’s security and reliable operation. Examine the locking bolts for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Ensure they move smoothly within their channels, engaging and disengaging fully during locking and unlocking cycles.

Periodically, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the bolts, as detailed in the ‘Cleaning & Lubrication’ section, to maintain smooth movement. Check the alignment of the bolts with the corresponding holes in the frame; misalignment can indicate a structural issue.

If you notice any difficulty in operation, or any visible damage, discontinue use and consult a qualified gun safe technician. Do not attempt to force the bolts. Proper bolt work maintenance is essential for the continued security and functionality of your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe, safeguarding your valuable firearms.

Hinge Maintenance

Maintaining the hinges of your Field & Stream 1871 gun safe is crucial for smooth door operation and preventing misalignment. Regularly inspect the hinges for signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage. Pay close attention to the hinge pins and ensure they are securely in place.

Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the hinge points, similar to bolt work lubrication, to ensure effortless door movement. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and grime. Check for any looseness in the hinge mounting screws and tighten them as needed;

If the door feels heavy or binds during operation, or if you notice any unusual noises, address the hinges immediately. A properly maintained hinge system ensures the secure closure and reliable protection offered by your gun safe. Ignoring hinge issues can lead to more significant problems over time.

Resources & Further Information

Explore ManualsLib and Fixya for online resources, troubleshooting, and community support related to your Field & Stream safe, plus The Total Gun Manual.

The Total Gun Manual (Field & Stream) – Overview

The Total Gun Manual (Field & Stream) serves as a comprehensive companion resource, extending beyond safe operation to encompass broader firearms knowledge. Available in updated and expanded editions – including versions with 335 and 375 essential shooting skills – this manual equips owners with vital expertise.

It covers gear selection, shooting techniques, hunting strategies, and safety protocols, fostering responsible gun ownership. Readers benefit from insights by authors like David E. Petzal and Phil Bourjaily. Amazon.com offers both editions, featuring book recommendations and reviews.

While not directly focused on the 1871 safe itself, the manual’s emphasis on safe gun handling and responsible ownership complements the security provided by your Field & Stream safe, promoting a holistic approach to firearms management.

ManualsLib Online Resources

ManualsLib provides valuable online access to your Field & Stream Pro Series safe’s documentation, including the manual for the 1871 model. Specifically, resources detail the electronic lock functionality – covering entering your security code, adjusting the keypad sound, and performing battery replacement procedures.

The platform offers a downloadable version of the manual, ensuring accessibility even without an internet connection. Information regarding the trouble key (for emergency access) is also available. ManualsLib’s archive, dated December 28, 2019, offers a convenient way to retrieve information.

This online resource supplements the physical manual, providing a readily available digital copy for quick reference and troubleshooting assistance, enhancing your safe ownership experience.

Fixya Troubleshooting Community

Fixya offers a community-driven platform for resolving issues with your Field & Stream gun safe, particularly concerning the locking mechanism. Users have reported and shared solutions related to combination access, specifically for models like the 1871.

Troubleshooting guidance includes instructions on manipulating the cross bar – pulling it towards you and rotating it to the right, utilizing the dial for assistance. Detailed steps are provided for tightening the nut (precisely 3-1/2 turns) and correctly bending the locking fingers over the nut to secure the mechanism.

This resource, with information last updated on October 20, 2018, provides practical, user-submitted advice for addressing common lock-related problems, offering an alternative support channel beyond the official manual.