Customer Reviews

First Alert 3035DF Digital Security Box, Black/Silver

5 star:		(25)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(13)
2 star:		(5)
1 star:		(14)

 

 

I use this box for keeping handy "minor" items like my file drawer key, etc. I wouldn't characterize it as a very "safe" box for valuables, but for my purposes of keeping out inquisitive kids and nosey babysitters it's fine. The knob is made of plastic, the locking tab is a pretty thin piece of metal. I read another reviewer's difficulty programming the electronic lock -- that may be because the printed pamphlet instructions were incorrect it seemed. It directed the user to input the code then wait a few seconds, when in fact the proper directions (printed on a sticker on the underside of the lid) indicated you input the code twice in a row.

A few notes:
The batteries that come with it don't last at all. Right now I am just using the key backup primarily. I am not going to put 4 more AAs into it just for the keypad.

Secondly, THIS SAFE IS VERY INSECURE. I am in no way a professional lockpicker, but I was able to pick the backup key slot once when I lost my key. It took me about 2 minutes and I was in. The keypad did nothing, and neither did that wimpy piece of plastic over the keyslot. This uses a typical wafer-lock, the type found on filing cabinets. Anyone with two paperclips (like the ones I used) and a half-hour of internet study can open this safe. I REPEAT: THIS SAFE IS INSECURE.

It's also pretty flimsy and I wouldn't trust it against anyone with a crowbar and 30 seconds, either.

I just got this security box, but so far I am very pleased with it. It appears to be well made and I do not have any problems with the digital lock. I think the problem the previous reviewer had was the key is an "overide". You have to turn the key to the lock position and then the digital lock will function. If the key is in the unlock position, it overides the digital lock and it won't lock. They even give you a black plastic cap to cover up the key hole, because once you lock the box with the key, you shouldn't have to use it again, except in the case of an emergency

I bought this to keep prescription medications in and thought it was perfect. Had problems with the code setting even doing it the way the sticker says, but finally got it. This week I has a 3 bottles of medications come up missing (I know who took them) and couldn't figure out how. I am very diligent about keeping it locked at all times. Finally figured out that the key lock opens with GM car keys. The lock still works with the regular key also. I don't know if it was always like that or was jammed somehow but I am very disappointed as you can imagine. So please beware if you plan to keep valuables in this. Get a real safe!!

I had bought this to keep my medicines from disappearing. I didn't want a key laying around. 6 weeks after I bought it, the combination stopped working. It took me about 15 seconds to pop it open with a carpet chisel. I tried to reset the combination after i9t was open, and it wouldn't reset. The company was no help. I suggest a sentry and a General Electric Combination locking key box.

I got this safe for my truck. I wanted it to be a bit smaller, but it is what it is.

So it sits in the back seat on the floor. After being in there 2 weeks, the electronic lock function no longer works - I have to carry the key all the time. I reset the lock code, and it accepts the code, but it won't let the lock turn anyhow.


It also seems to me the lock or the lid are mighty thin. Overall a huge disappointment.

On the plus side, it does hold a lot of stuff.

I bought this primarily for the purpose of keeping a few important papers (my passport and so forth) and petty cash away from prying eyes and hands, and it's served me well.

Pros:
Cost- it's cheap.
Shipping- came on time.
Size- it's portable, and easy to move and keep out of sight.

Cons:
Security- it's not great.
The keypad is useful for quick access, but the real security failing is the backup key lock. I understand the purpose of the key, and given that the batteries that come with it burn out so quickly, it's absolutely necessary to open the box to replace the batteries so you continue using the keypad. The problem is that if a determined person looked at it for five seconds they would realize the little piece of plastic over the keyhole is covering a lock, and they could then fairly easily pick the lock using a hairpin, a couple paperclips, and a small screwdriver.
The second problem is that although the box itself is pretty well constructed, the latch is small. I would bet that anyone determined to get into the box could bust it open with a crowbar in no time.

Conclusion: you get what you pay for. It's not Fort Knox, and you shouldn't expect it to be. Anyone who REALLY wants to get into the box can and will do so, as long as they don't care if someone realizes that they broke into it. Don't keep firearms, state secrets, or lots of cash in it. Even if they can't break into it in your office or home, it's easy to just pick up and steal. I didn't buy it to keep out determined burglars, so I'm happy with it. It just deters the overly curious.
If you want a more secure lock box (Al Gore, you should be listening!), spend a few extra bucks and go for the Stack-On PS-514 Personal Safe with Electronic Lock. It's a bit more solid, and it's only an extra 20 or 30 bucks. If you want Fort Knox, go buy a personal safe for $500. You can't expect something that costs $35 to be unbreakable.

I've been using this daily and have no complaints. It is as secure as your average lock box. Key pad is easier to use than keys. Has a key back up should the battery fail.

I had this box for about a year to keep medicine in and out of the hands of others.... However the lock which is plastic and metal is easily defeated over time. After a few turns on the handle the plastic lock bends and the box opens without using the key or using the combination!!

Great to use in dorms. Buy bike lock to go around handle and fasten to loft bed now everything secure for when kid has to go away for weekend.