What are the Different Types of Padlock?

With so many types of padlocks to choose from, it can often be difficult to know which is the best. That’s why we’ve categorized padlocks by type to help you make the right choice.

Heavy duty padlocks
High security padlocks
Weatherproof padlocks
Combination padlocks
Brass padlocks
Keyed alike padlocks

Heavy duty padlocks

Heavy duty padlocks typically have a padlock safety rating of CEN4 to CEN6. These padlocks are often used to protect high security applications such as ammunition stores, nuclear power companies, etc.

High security padlocks

High security padlocks include the following types:

Heavy duty padlocks

The shackle of your chosen padlock is the most vulnerable part. This is where most thieves will attempt to break the lock using saws or bolt cutters. It’s therefore important to consider this feature when comparing padlocks.

Closed Shackle Padlocks

Close shackle or closed shackle padlocks expose only the minimum amount of shackle needed to make use of the padlock. This feature reduces the risk of attack as only a small portion of the shackle is exposed. The downside of the closed shackle design is reduced clearance making such locks unsuitable for some applications.

Open Shackle Padlocks

Open shackle padlocks expose most of the lock shackle. This makes them very versatile as the shackle will easily pass through holes, chains and hasps. But they are more susceptible to attack.

Weatherproof padlocks

Weatherproof padlocks typically consist of an aluminum or laminated steel body, rust-resistant internals and stainless steel, a sheathed steel or brass catch, and a thermoplastic cover, the choice of material will determine the level of protection the padlock provides.

Combination padlocks

“Combination padlocks” provide a practical alternative to “key-operated locks” in situations where many users need to be able to open a specific padlock. In addition to the number of marbles and the ability to reset the combination of the lock, there are other important factors to consider when choosing a high-security combination padlock. Quality of manufacture, materials used and brands should all be checked.

Brass padlocks

For many years, brass has been widely used to produce high-quality padlocks all over Europe. Brass is a tough metal that is highly resistant to corrosion and will not shatter when struck with a hammer. Brass padlocks can be manufactured using a variety of techniques, which help make them very affordable. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and are suitable for many applications from luggage securing to property.

Keyed alike padlocks

Keyed Alike padlocks are padlocks sold as a combination where all padlocks in the group share a common key pattern, all padlocks are operated by a single key.

Most standard padlocks are “different keys,” meaning each padlock requires its own unique key to operate. Keyed Alike padlocks require only one key to operate any padlock in the group.

If you’ve ever had to manage multiple padlocks, you understand the headaches that can come with having multiple padlock keys. Using Keyed Alike padlocks means that this headache is completely eliminated, since you only have one key (and a spare key) to operate all padlocks.