Something I ran across.....................
Optimum humidity & temperature levels in a gun safe
The humidity of air is influenced in part by temperature, in that the higher the temperature, the higher the capacity for water vapor. Condensation due to temperature changes and a lack of airflow also need to be taken into consideration. Maintaining a constant temperature will go a long way in combating condensation build up. A good optimal humidity level in a gun safe is between 45% to 50%. Too low or dry in a safe and the wood grips and stocks on firearms will dry out and cracking can occur. Too high and of course rust and corrosion will occur on the metal parts of the firearms. One of the ways to help control the temperature in the safe is by the location of the safe. Some like to store their safes in a garage, unless the garage is climate controlled, the fluctuations in temperature make this a bad idea. If you live in a warmer area of the country, an air conditioned home will make it much easier to maintain a humidity level of around 45% in the safe. Another good idea is to install Palusol heat activated seal strip or EDPM rubber weather strip around the interior of the door frame, creating a nice tight seal. Humidity rods, incandesant light bulbs, & dehumidifiers are great ways to control the environment in a safe, but those require electrical power to the safe. Some locations in a home, such as a closet, can make it difficult to wire a safe because of a lack of power and space or both.
