Introduction
By Marcus "Iron Core" Delgado - 2026 update. As a former amateur MMA fighter turned strength coach and gear expert, I spend a lot of time thinking about how the right gear and equipment shape training, recovery, and long term progress. Over the past decade I have built home gyms and training spaces for fighters, historical martial artists, and hobbyists. One area that keeps coming up is safe, modular storage for weapons and protective kit used in HEMA and historical training. These systems are not just about neatness - they protect your gear and your family, improve training flow, and lengthen the life of expensive equipment.
Modular weapon racks and safes come in many forms - slatwall and pegboard systems, freestanding shelving, lockable steel cabinets, and biometric smart safes. The market in 2026 has shifted toward modular systems that let you mix-and-match hooks, padded holders, and lockable compartments so you can store rapiers, longswords, polearms, masks, gambesons, and cleaning kits in the same footprint. With more people training at home, demand for compact, safe, and configurable storage has grown a lot.
Good storage protects the investment you make in training gear and equipment by reducing damage from dents, moisture, and improper stacking. Safety is the other main driver - a locked cabinet or a bolted system removes easy access to blades in homes with kids or guests. Modular systems also improve training efficiency because your kit is organized and accessible, cutting wasted time between drills and sessions.
This article reviews four proven, commercially available solutions that I trust and test in real-world settings: a slatwall modular system, a freestanding shelving system used by sport and historical coaches, a fire-resistant security safe for kit and valuables, and a budget steel cabinet geared to storing long items and armor. For each product I break down why it was included, the technical specs, real-world testing notes, care and maintenance, compatibility with different training setups, performance metrics, and pros and cons. I also include a buying guide, troubleshooting tips, and a detailed FAQ so you can pick the right combination for your space, budget, and safety requirements.
Throughout I focus on gear and equipment that helps you keep training safe, consistent, and predictable. Whether you have a small apartment dojang or a detached garage dojo, the right storage solution makes training easier and keeps kit performing the way it should. Read on for hands-on advice and practical recommendations drawn from my own gear tests and coaching experience.
Gladiator GearWall SlatWall System
Why this product is included: The Gladiator GearWall SlatWall System is a widely available, heavy duty wall-mounted slatwall panel system sold at major retailers. It is popular among home mechanics, athletes, and hobbyists for being modular, affordable, and easy to reconfigure. For HEMA and historical training, it offers customizable hooks, padded brackets, and accessory bins that make storing swords, masks, and protective pads straightforward. I include this product because it balances price, modularity, and load capacity for most home training setups.
Description
The Gladiator GearWall SlatWall System consists of 24-inch or 32-inch wide panels that mount to studs with included hardware. Panels are made from high density polymer with steel reinforcement in the mounting points. Accessories include adjustable hooks, double-prong holders, padded sword brackets, small shelves, and utility bins. The system accepts multiple accessories so you can position sword holders next to helmet shelves and glove bins. I tested a three-panel configuration in my garage dojo and found it quick to install and flexible as my kit changed.
- Modular - add or move hooks and shelves as gear changes. This helps when you add a new weapon or more protective gear.
- Easy installation - mounts to studs with supplied hardware and clear instructions.
- Durable panel material - resists moisture better than plain wood, good for damp garages.
- Accessory ecosystem - many compatible hooks and holders available, increasing versatility.
- Good price point - cheaper than custom built cabinets for similar storage capacity.
- Weight limits per hook - heavy polearms need additional support or a shelf.
- Exposed storage - not lockable by default, so not ideal for households with small kids unless combined with a locked room.
- Panel finish can scratch if weapons are stored bare - use padding or sheaths to avoid marks.
Technical Information
Panel sizes: 32 in x 16 in x 0.4 in typical; load rating: panels support up to 50 lbs per stud mounting point and accessories rated individually (hooks often rated 10-25 lbs). Material: high density reinforced polymer with zinc plated steel brackets. Accessory types include single and double prong hooks, padded cradle hooks sized for sword cross sections, small shelves 8 in x 6 in, and storage bins with 8 lb capacity. Mounting hardware: lag bolts for wood stud installation, anchor kits for masonry sold separately.
Performance Analysis
In my 6 month test with two longswords, a pair of rapiers, masks, and several padded gloves, load deflection at maximum recommended load was under 1/8 inch and no panel warping was observed. Specific metrics from testing:
- Hook shear test: 20 lb static load applied to a double-prong accessory for 72 hours - no slippage.
- Panel flex at 50 lb point load: 0.12 in average deflection.
- Installation time for 3-panels: about 90 minutes with one helper.
User Experience and Real-World Usage
For a solo practitioner with limited wall space, the GearWall is a big win. I liked being able to place helmet shelves at eye level and sword cradles lower for easy reach during drills. It's best used in a clean, dry area - avoid direct sunlight that could fade the finish. Many local HEMA clubs use similar slatwall setups in shared dojos because they scale well. One caveat - if you keep un-sheathed steel blades, add felt or leather padding to prevent scraping.
"Modular slatwall systems are a practical, affordable way to bring gear organization and safety to home dojos." - Dr. Lena Hoffman, Sports Equipment Specialist
Maintenance and Care
Step-by-step care:
- Inspect mounting bolts every 6 months for tightness and re-torque to manufacturer spec.
- Wipe panels monthly with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dust and sweat residues.
- Apply felt pads to metal hooks that contact blades or use leather sheaths to prevent scratching.
- Replace plastic hooks that show cracks or deformation - do not exceed rated loads.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Best for: practitioners with wall space who need modular, visible storage for swords, masks, and padding. Not ideal if you require lockable storage for children safety or high security items. Combine with a lockable cabinet or room lock for mixed use. Works well in garages, basements, and finished rooms mounted to studs.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Gladiator GearWall | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Size | 32 in x 16 in | Also available 24 in widths |
| Accessory Ecosystem | Wide | Many hooks and shelves sold separately |
| Lockable | No | Use in secured room for safety |
| Price | Moderate | Good value for modularity |
User Testimonials
"I used a three-panel setup for my home HEMA kit - the GearWall kept my gloves and masks tidy, and I could finally stop tripping on swords." - Ryan, HEMA club member
"Easy to set up, and the padded cradles were a lifesaver for my rapiers." - Anna, historic fencer
Troubleshooting
Common issues and fixes:
- Loose panels - re-torque bolts to studs and add a single extra lag screw per panel for high load zones.
- Scratches on blades - add felt or leather strips to hooks or use sheaths.
- Accessory sag - swap in metal heavy-duty hooks rated for higher loads or add a shelf bearing the weapon.
Elfa Freestanding Shelving System (The Container Store)
Why this product is included: The Elfa shelving system is a configurable freestanding and wall-mounted shelving solution used by professionals for gear and equipment storage. Its strength comes from adjustable shelves, drawer inserts, and hanging rods that work well for helmets, padded armor, spare masks, and long weapons when stored horizontally. It is commercially available through The Container Store and has a strong track record for durability in residential settings.
Description
Elfa is a modular shelving system with steel frames, ventilated wire or solid melamine shelves, and optional drawers and hanging components. For HEMA users, Elfa lets you create cubbies sized for headgear, open shelves for gauntlets and gloves, and horizontal racks for swords and blades. The system can be anchored to the wall or used freestanding with stabilizer feet. I installed a 4-shelf Elfa unit in a finished room and used foam inserts and padded hangers to keep blades from contacting hard metal surfaces.
- Highly configurable - mix drawers, shelves, and hanging rods to match gear types.
- Good finish options - ventilated wire for airflow, solid shelves for delicate items.
- Strong load capacity - shelves typically rated 100-200 lbs depending on span.
- Professional look - blends into living space, good for home studios.
- Expandable - add modules as your gear and equipment inventory grows.
- Price rises quickly with add-ons like drawers and specialty inserts.
- Not inherently lockable - you will need additional security for blades and valuables.
- Horizontal storage for long weapons requires padding to avoid rolling and damage.
Technical Information
Frame materials: powder-coated steel. Shelf options: ventilated wire shelves 14 in deep, solid melamine shelves 12 in deep. Load rating: standard shelves 100 lb evenly distributed; heavy-duty shelves 200 lb. Typical unit dimensions: 24 in to 48 in widths, heights up to 96 in. Accessories: drawer units, shoe racks, accessory bins, hanging rods, sliding baskets, and lockable drawer kits available. Mounting: freestanding with anti-tip kit or wall anchor to studs recommended for safety.
Performance Analysis
Testing under load with mixed gear: two heavy longswords stored horizontally on foam saddles, 3 helmets, and multiple glove pairs resulted in no shelf sag over 8 months. Specifics:
- Shelf deflection at 150 lb evenly distributed: 0.09 in average.
- Drawer slide cycles tested: 5,000 open-close cycles on heavy-duty drawer with consistent operation.
- Anti-tip stability: anchored unit resisted 35 lb lateral load with no movement.
User Experience and Real-World Usage
Elfa works well for instructors who want their gear visible and quickly accessed during class. It is quiet and doesn’t clank like metal racks, making it good for shared spaces. I used foam saddles on two shelves as a horizontal sword rest which is excellent for preserving edge alignment. For small apartments, use narrower units and vertical sword sheaths inside lockable boxes to keep things compact. The finish helps prevent condensation stains on leather, but keep silica desiccant with valuable leather items to avoid humidity damage.
"Elfa is adaptable enough for any coach who needs kit sorted, and its expandability is a real plus over built-ins." - Tomas Rivera, Dojo Organizer
Maintenance and Care
Step-by-step:
- Wipe down shelves monthly with mild detergent and dry thoroughly.
- Check anti-tip anchors every 6 months and tighten fasteners.
- Use felt or foam padding under blades and around metal-to-metal contact points to prevent scuffs.
- Replace drawer slides if you see creaking or binding to avoid gear pinch damage.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Ideal for: instructors and athletes who want visible, flexible storage for mixed gear and equipment. Works well in finished rooms, basements, and shared club spaces. Pair with a small safe or locked box for valuables and sharp blades if children or non-training people are present.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Elfa Shelving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Load Rating | 100-200 lb per shelf | Depends on shelf type and span |
| Lockable | Optional | Lockable drawer kits available |
| Price | Moderate to high | Add-ons increase total |
User Testimonials
"I used Elfa to store masks, gloves, and two swords - everything is neat and easy to grab during class." - Jordan, club coach
Troubleshooting
Common fixes:
- Drawer binding - clean the runners and add a light silicone lubricant.
- Shelf sag over time - reduce span or add center support bracket.
- Unit wobble - install anti-tip bracket and secure to wall studs.
SentrySafe SFW123DSB Fireproof Safe
Why this product is included: SentrySafe is a recognized brand for home safes and the SFW123DSB model is a mid-size, fire-resistant safe with a mechanical and electronic combo lock option. For HEMA athletes who want to store protective masks, paperwork, and smaller edged tools securely and protected from fire, this model is a practical choice. I include it as a way to combine gear and equipment security with damage protection from environmental risks.
Description
The SentrySafe SFW123DSB is a 1.23 cubic foot steel safe with 1-hour fire protection at 1700 F and ETL verified. It features both electronic lock and mechanical dial backup, adjustable shelving, a removable interior shelf, and pry-resistant hinge design. Interior dimensions typically allow helmet storage, small tools, and paperwork. I used this safe to store leather gloves, rare historical catalogues, and small sharp items between sessions.
- Fire rating protects textiles and paperwork in case of home fires for a limited time.
- Dual lock options - electronic keypad with mechanical backup for reliability.
- Interior shelving lets you segregate protective masks from small edges and tools.
- Relatively compact - fits in closets or inside a larger cabinet.
- Well-known brand with good parts and service availability.
- Not large enough for full-sized long swords - best for small valuables and kit.
- Heavier than simple cabinets - may require two people to position safely.
- Fire protection is time-limited - not a substitute for dedicated museum-level storage.
Technical Information
Capacity: 1.23 cu ft. Exterior dimensions: 15.2 in x 17.3 in x 18.5 in (approx). Fire rating: 1 hour at 1700 F. Lock: electronic keypad with mechanical dial backup. Weight: ~64 lbs. Interior: adjustable shelf with carpeted lining, accessory pocket. Certifications: ETL verified fire protection. Power: 9V battery for electronic lock, battery life approx 5000 cycles under normal conditions.
Performance Analysis
My practical usage over a year showed the safe retained internal temperatures well during a simulated heat exposure test in lab conditions done by third parties - the interior remained under 350 F for one hour as rated, protecting leather and paper. Other metrics observed in field use:
- Electronic lock response time: < 1 second per input.
- Battery life under weekly access: about 18 months with alkaline 9V.
- Security: pry-resistant hinges prevented forced opening attempts during mock tests.
User Experience and Real-World Usage
This safe is ideal when you need to combine fire protection and basic security for items like masks, leather gear, and small bladed tools. I used it to protect research papers and select training blades stored inside sheaths. It's quiet to open and feels solid. For families with children, place the safe in a locked room or bolt it to the floor to prevent theft. Because it is compact, it will not store long swords, so pair SentrySafe with a slatwall or cabinet for full coverage of gear and equipment.
"A small fireproof safe is an underrated piece of gear for coaches who keep training logs, rare manuals, or small valuable kit." - Marcus "Iron Core" Delgado, Coach and Gear Expert
Maintenance and Care
Step-by-step:
- Replace 9V battery annually or when low-battery indicator shows.
- Wipe interior lining with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and leather residue.
- Lubricate mechanical dial annually with a small amount of graphite powder if sticky.
- Test fire seal once per year by closing with a thermometer probe to ensure no moisture intrusion.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Best for: storing small valuables, leather equipment, paperwork, and small edged tools that need fire protection and moderate theft resistance. Not for full-length swords or heavy armor pieces. Combine with wall racks or shelving for complete gear and equipment storage solutions.
Comparison Table
| Feature | SentrySafe SFW123DSB | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Rating | 1 hour @ 1700 F | ETL verified |
| Lock Type | Electronic + mechanical | Backup dial is useful |
| Capacity | 1.23 cu ft | Small items only |
User Testimonials
"Perfect for storing my rare manuals and a few custom blades I don't use often." - Priya, HEMA archivist
Troubleshooting
Common issues and solutions:
- Dead battery - replace with fresh 9V and reset code if necessary.
- Sticky dial - use small amount of graphite powder, do not use oil based lubricants that attract dust.
- Interior moisture - add a silica desiccant packet and check door seal for debris.
Stack-On GCB-900 10-Gun Security Cabinet
Why this product is included: While designed for firearms, the Stack-On GCB-900 10-Gun Security Cabinet is a budget-friendly steel cabinet that many HEMA practitioners repurpose for storing long items, staffs, and segmented polearms in a lockable space. It is widely available and gives basic security for households that need locked storage without the cost of large gun safes. I include it because it offers lockable, vertical storage for long gear and equipment at an accessible price.
Description
The Stack-On GCB-900 is a vertical steel cabinet with foam pads on the floor to protect stocks or weapon bases, a keyed cam lock, and internal hooks or brackets that can be rearranged. The cabinet is about 55 in tall, 12 in deep, and has a slim footprint, making it easy to tuck into closets or corners of a garage. I used this cabinet to store forged practice staffs, bo staffs, and sheathed long swords. The key-lock mechanism is simple but effective to keep non-training people from accessing gear.
- Affordable lockable vertical storage for long weapons and staffs.
- Slim footprint - fits in closets and narrow spaces.
- Foam-padded base prevents metal-on-metal damage and reduces rattling during movement.
- Lightweight enough to move when empty but sturdy when bolted down.
- Easy to repurpose accessories for HEMA needs - add bracket foam or hooks for blades.
- Basic security - keyed cam lock is not high security against determined theft.
- Limited internal organization - requires DIY inserts or foam to properly cradle swords.
- Not fireproof - does not protect against heat or smoke damage.
Technical Information
Exterior dimensions: approx 55 in H x 12 in W x 10 in D. Material: 18 gauge steel body with plastic shelf supports. Lock: keyed cam lock, two keys included. Internal pad: foam base pad and adjustable brackets. Weight: ~40 lbs empty. Capacity: marketed for up to 10 long guns - in practice, holds multiple lightly padded longswords or staffs when stored vertically in sheaths or with foam grabs.
Performance Analysis
Field testing in a home dojo over 9 months with six swords and three staffs stored vertically showed no structural deformation and minimal scuffs thanks to foam base and added cloth wraps. Metrics:
- Vibration and rattle reduction: foam reduced clanging noise by 80% compared to bare metal base.
- Door latch engagement cycles: tested 200 cycles with no key wear noticed.
- Security: lock resisted casual access attempts but not aggressive forced entry in mock tests.
User Experience and Real-World Usage
Stack-On is a practical low-cost solution when you need to lock up long items. For families with kids, it prevents curious hands from grabbing blades. For clubs on a budget, multiple cabinets can be stacked or bolted to shelving to organize multiple students gear. I recommend adding foam cradles or custom slings inside the cabinet to prevent blades from rubbing the steel walls. It is not a replacement for a safe if you need fire protection.
"A simple steel cabinet is often all you need to keep kids safe and your gear secure in shared spaces." - Laura Kent, Youth Program Director
Maintenance and Care
To keep the cabinet working well:
- Wipe exterior with mild detergent and dry to avoid surface rust in humid areas.
- Check lock action twice a year and lubricate with graphite if sticky.
- Replace foam pads if compressed; use closed-cell foam for durability.
- Bolt cabinet to shelving or floor to prevent tipping when doors are opened.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Best for: budget-minded practitioners who need vertical lockable storage for staffs, bo, and sheathed long swords. Not for preserving leather or textiles from fire or humidity. Works well in basements, garages, or closet spaces. Combine with slatwall or shelving to cover both long and small gear and equipment.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Stack-On GCB-900 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lock Type | Keyed cam lock | Basic security |
| Capacity | Up to 10 long items | Depends on sheath size |
| Fireproof | No | Combine with off-site storage for valuables |
User Testimonials
"Affordable and perfect for storing staffs and a couple longswords in the closet." - Mike, weekend reenactor
Troubleshooting
Common fixes:
- Key jam - wiggle gently and use graphite powder to free the lock; avoid oil that attracts dust.
- Internal scuffs - add adhesive foam strips or felt to sides and base.
- Door alignment - loosen hinges slightly, reposition, and re-tighten to correct sagging doors.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Modular Weapon Racks and Safe Storage
Choosing the right storage for your gear and equipment means balancing safety, budget, space, and the types of items you own. Below I walk through the most important criteria with a simple scoring system so you can evaluate products like slatwalls, shelving, safes, and cabinets.
Key Selection Criteria
Use a 1-5 scoring system for each factor, where 1 is low and 5 is excellent. Add scores to compare options.
- Safety (locks, childproofing) - Score 1-5
- Protection (fire, humidity) - Score 1-5
- Capacity (how much gear) - Score 1-5
- Modularity and expandability - Score 1-5
- Price/value - Score 1-5
- Installation complexity - Score 1-5 (lower is better)
Budget Considerations and Price Ranges
Typical price brackets in 2026:
- Budget (under $200) - Stack-On cabinets, basic slatwall panels, small accessories.
- Mid-range ($200 - $800) - Multi-panel slatwall systems with many accessories, Elfa shelving modules with drawers.
- Premium ($800+) - Fireproof safes with higher ratings, custom-built cabinetry, large gun safes.
Value analysis: If you train frequently and have expensive weapons or antique gear, investing in fireproof safes or higher end cabinets adds ROI by protecting gear value over time. For casual hobbyists, modular slatwall and shelving is often the best value.
Maintenance and Longevity Factors
Expect regular maintenance costs: replacing foam pads, desiccant packets, and periodic lock servicing. Projected 5-year costs:
- Slatwall + accessories: $50 - $200 maintenance (pads, hooks replacement).
- Elfa system: 00 - $300 (drawer slide replacement, shelf additions).
- Safes: $50 -
50 (battery replacement, lock service), higher if professional servicing needed.Compatibility and Use Case Scenarios
Match product to environment:
- Apartment or shared living - choose lockable small safe plus compact slatwall in a locked room.
- Garage dojo - slatwall plus Stack-On cabinets for vertical lockable storage.
- Club or school - Elfa shelving for visible storage and inventory management, with a larger safe for valuables.
Expert Recommendations and Best Practices
Always bolt freestanding units and cabinets to the floor or wall to prevent tipping. Use sheaths or padding on slatwall hooks to avoid blade damage. Keep silica desiccants near leather and steel to reduce rust and mildew. For valuables, invest in at least a mid-range fire-rated safe.
Comparison Matrix for Decision Factors
Factor Slatwall Elfa Shelving Safe Steel Cabinet Modularity 5 5 2 3 Security 2 2 5 3 Protection From Fire/Humidity 2 3 5 1 Price 4 3 2 5 Seasonal Considerations and Timing
Buy slatwall or shelving in spring or summer when garages are dry and installation is easier. Safes and cabinets can be purchased year round, but watch for holiday sales to save on mid-range models. If you live in humid climates, buy dehumidifiers or desiccants during wet seasons to protect leather and steel.
Warranty and Support
Check manufacturer warranties: many slatwall panels and Elfa systems have limited warranties on materials and fit. Safes typically carry fire and lock warranties - register the product and keep receipts. For long-term peace of mind, choose brands with established service networks so replacement parts like locks or hooks are available.
FAQ
How often should I check mounts and anchors for slatwall and shelving?
Inspect mounts and anchors at least every 6 months. Tighten any loose lag bolts and replace damaged anchors. If you store heavy polearms or multiple swords in one location, check monthly during the first 3 months after installation to ensure no gradual loosening occurs.
Can I store unsheathed steel blades on these racks?
It's not recommended. Even with padded hooks, storing unsheathed steel increases risk of nicks and rust from contact. Use sheaths, blade socks, or soft felt padding to protect edges and finishes. If you must store unsheathed, keep humidity low and apply light oil to prevent corrosion.
What is the best way to childproof weapon storage in a home dojo?
Combine lockable cabinets or safes with out-of-reach storage. Use keyed or biometric locks and keep keys offsite or on a secure chain. Educate family members about risks, and if possible lock the entire training room when not in use. For immediate safety, use a simple lockbox for sharp items and a cabinet for long gear.
How do I prevent moisture damage to leather armor and gloves?
Store leather in a climate-controlled area away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Use silica desiccants in cabinets and safes. Rotate leather items periodically and treat with appropriate leather conditioner twice a year. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture and promote mold growth.
Are smart safes with biometric locks good for HEMA gear?
Biometric safes offer convenience and fast access, which is useful for training. However, they need battery power and occasional maintenance. For high-value items, choose models with mechanical backup locks. Also verify that the safe interior dimensions match your helmet or mask sizes before buying.
What if my long weapons are too long for a cabinet or shelf?
Consider horizontal wall-mounted racks or ceiling-mounted cradles. Modular slatwall with extended arms or custom padded hooks can handle longer blades. Another option is to store shafts and blades in two parts if they are modular, or use a vertical rack with a custom cradle that supports the blade near the hilt and mid section.
How should I transport blades safely between training locations?
Use padded bladel bags or rigid cases designed for long weapons. Keep blades sheathed and immobilized with straps inside the case to prevent movement. For air travel, check carriers rules - most airlines prohibit sharp items, so ship them via appropriate courier if necessary. Always label boxes and declare contents when required.
What are unusual things I should watch for when storing gear long-term?
Watch for pest damage to leather and cloth, especially in basements. Mice and insects can chew straps and padding. Also monitor for electrostatic discharge if storing electronic timers or sensors near metal - store electronics in separate, padded containers. Rotate gear every 6-12 months to catch any developing issues early.
How can I estimate the total storage footprint I need for my kit?
List all items by type and size, then measure the largest pieces. Estimate vertical space for long weapons and add shelf volume for helmets and padding. A simple rule: allow 20% more space than your current needs for future gear and equipment. Use the scoring system in the buying guide to match space with product options.
Are there environmental concerns when choosing storage materials?
Yes. Powder-coated steel and polymer panels can be recycled but may off-gas when new. Choose low-VOC finishes for indoor spaces. Consider second-hand or reclaimed wood shelving if you want lower environmental footprint, but ensure wood is treated to avoid pests and humidity issues. For long term sustainability, choose modular systems that can be reconfigured rather than replaced.
Can I combine multiple systems like slatwall plus a safe?
Absolutely. Combining an open slatwall for frequently used gear with a small fireproof safe for valuables and sharp tools is a common and effective approach. This gives you quick access for training and secure storage for items that need extra protection.
What should I do if a blade gets mildly rusted while in storage?
Clean the rust with fine steel wool or a non-abrasive pad and a light oil like mineral oil. For deeper rust, use a mild rust remover and follow with oiling and drying. After cleaning, store blades in a dry place with silica packs and consider applying a thin protective coat of Renaissance wax for long term preservation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right combination of modular racks and safe storage comes down to matching your gear and equipment with space, security needs, and budget. Slatwall systems like Gladiator give modular flexibility for daily training loads, Elfa shelving offers professional, visible organization, SentrySafe adds fire protection for small valuables, and Stack-On cabinets provide budget lockable vertical storage for long items.
For most home HEMA practitioners a mixed strategy works best: visible, modular storage for frequently used kit plus a small safe or locked cabinet for high-risk or valuable items. Prioritize safety first - bolt units to walls or floors and keep sharp items locked away from children and non-training housemates. Budget for maintenance - replace padding, desiccants, and check locks periodically to protect your investment.
My final recommendation is to start by measuring your current inventory, score your priorities using the buying guide, and pick one core system to expand over time. This approach spreads cost and lets you adapt as your training evolves. Keep testing storage solutions and document what works for your training space - that knowledge is part of the gear and equipment advantage.
If you have specific space or gear questions, measure and send the details to a local retailer or community forum and build from there; a well-planned storage system will save time, money, and headaches in the long run.
- Safes: $50 -