Padlock Advice and Guidance
Choosing the right padlock can be a little more complicated that you might imagine and there are a number of different factors that you may need to consider. We produced this section of our site to help explain some of these. Please use the navigation on the left for specific information relating to each padlock on their own dedicated pages.
(Download full print friendly version of this advice section click here)
I don't understand the different parts of a padlock?
Padlocks usually consist of a solid body, a locking mechanism and a shackle. There are various different styles but the basic design and operation is the same.
...read more
Do I need a fully weatherproof padlock?
A fully weatherproof padlock is one that uses 100% stainless and non-corrosive materials. They are also know as marine padlocks and suitable for saline and other extreme environments. This is a common question and often the answer is no.
...read more
What is a round disc padlock and when are they best used?
A disc, discus or round-shackle padlock is disc shaped and has a curved shackle that goes right the way around its circumference. The very design automatically affords it the status and security rating of a closed-shackle padlock.
...read more
What are the different types of padlock?
Padlocks come in many shapes and sizes each with their own properties to increase security, make them more convenient to use or protect them from the weather. Here we explain their merits and what makes them ideal for different situations.
...read more
What are Keyed Alike, Master-Keyed and Keyed Different Padlocks?
Most padlocks are only opened by the specific key assigned to them. However, it can sometimes be convenient to have all the padlocks in a set use the same key or be opened by a single master key.
...read more
My insurance company requires a specific type of padlock. Which is it?
Your insurance company may require that you need a specific type of padlock or one with a minimum security rating. This will vary from one insurance underwriter to another but they mostly follow the same basic set of requirements.
...read more
How secure is my padlock and can it be picked?
Any padlock can be picked but some more easily than others. At the top end they are near impossible for even the most experienced lock-smiths to pick and even then it could take hours.
...read more
Are combination padlocks as good as padlocks with keys?
The simple answer is no. The mechanism of a combination padlock is such that it cannot be as strong as a keyed padlock. A combination padlock can also be cracked over time simply be trying each code in turn.
...read more
Have you got a list of resources relating to the lock and padlock industry?
There are various bodies surrounding the padlock market including locksmith associations, manufacturers and testing institutes. We've produced this page in an attempt to have them all on one place.
...read more