Padlocks: you choose your level of security
Not all locks are created equal and that is true of locks. You can purchase locks from $1.50 to $150.00 per lock. So what is the difference? In the example above, the locks will range from mechanical to electronic and from small to large.
There are many other considerations when choosing a lock such as; what is the size of the padlock, how big is the shackle, what material is the body and shackle of the padlock made of, and what type of locking cylinder does the padlock have. The first three refer to the physical security of the lock. The last item, the lock cylinder, is one of the most important but one of the most overlooked.
If the lock barrel is not secure, it could be subject to picking, yanking, or other forms of attack. CobraLock has created a very unique and patented lock that allows the user to choose their level of security. This was accomplished by manufacturing a padlock body that accepts standard cam locks or vending machine locks. As the security level of the lock cylinder increases, the price of the padlock also increases.
Lock cylinders:
Some of the lock cylinders that the CobraLock padlock accepts are Cobra7, CobraMatic7, Abloy, and Medeco. All of these are protected by US patents and when combined with the CobraLock, the entire lock is patented.
When choosing a padlock lockout cylinder, consider the following:
- Where will the lock be used (the shed in your backyard or the back of a delivery truck)?
- What will the lock secure (garden equipment or a truckload of electronics)?
- Will the lock be inside or outside?
- What kind of “Key Control” do you need?
When buying padlocks you should take into account the following:
- Where will the lock be used (interior or exterior)?
- How big should the padlock be?
- What should the body and shackle of the lock be made of?
- What size (length and diameter) should the shackle be?
- What type of lock cylinder should be used?
When you go into the “big box stores” to buy a lock, you will be given a wide variety of different sized locks. You’ll be able to go through the list above and find a lock that meets your needs, that’s all except the most important thing, the lock cylinder. You will have a limited selection of different keycodes to choose from. There is a good chance that many people have the same key to open the new lock you just bought.
So remember, when shopping for a lock, think about the lock cylinder, without YOU controlling the key codes, you cannot control your security.
