Padlocks are a one-off cost for providing businesses or individual users a way to protect areas or possessions when left unattended. This can include tools at a business or job site, lockers at work or school, and any area that needs to be locked up to prohibit others from entering.

But what kind of padlock do you choose? Pay careful attention to the type of lock you purchase to make sure that your valuables will be protected against possible break-ins, theft, or vandalism. The size, shape, and cost of a padlock should reflect the value of the items you want to protect.

Low Cost = Low Security

A large padlock does not necessarily mean it is stronger. The type of material your padlock is made from has a big bearing on the security level and the price. If it is made from cheap materials it will be much easier to break than a smaller, hardened steel version with a protected shackle.

Durable and strong, padlocks are made to withstand force. Steel padlocks are somewhat stronger than brass as steel is a harder metal. Brass is a relatively soft metal making it quick and inexpensive to machine. So if the padlock is somewhere that may be vulnerable to burglars, steel should be your choice because it can more easily withstand cutting and prying.

Higher Cost = Higher Security

Solid steel and case-hardened steel padlocks are very durable and tamper resistant. They are typically used in higher security applications and are often chrome or zinc-plated to resist corrosion. Stainless steel padlocks are also very durable and tamper resistant but generally hold up to the elements better than solid steel.

One of the world’s leading producers of high security locks is Medeco with pick and drill resistance features that block thieves from gaining entry. When a thief sees Medeco locks on your interior or exterior doors, file cabinets, gates and other secure areas, he will likely decide it isn’t worth the risk.

The Medeco® Protector II Series padlock is made of durable, industrial-grade stainless steel and offers excellent resistance to harsh weather and extreme conditions. The hardened boron alloy steel shackles stand up to physical attack, providing strong resistance against cutting, sawing, and prying. The patented Medeco3 mechanical cylinder resists picking, drilling, and other sophisticated forms of physical attack.

• Unique deadlocking shackle locking mechanism for resistance to physical attack.
• Hardened boron alloy steel shackles (5/16″ and 7/16″ diameters) provide strong resistance against cutting, sawing and prying.
• Hardened stainless steel inserts inside the cylinder provide the ultimate defense against drilling and other forms of physical attack.
• The unique elevating and rotating tumbler pin system is virtually pick-proof.
• Cylinders are constructed of durable machined brass components, designed to last the life of your equipment.
• Patented Medeco3 keys may only be duplicated by Medeco® or an authorized Medeco® service outlet, and only at your request.
• Locks can be keyed alike, keyed differently, or master keyed depending on your specific needs.

With the vast selection of lock types out there, it’s important to know that you’re dealing with a professional who can tell you the differences and make a recommendation based on your needs. Give Paragon Security NY a call today for any and all of your lock-based needs.