Used to think cheap padlocks were fine for my storage unit, now I know better

About two years ago I had a storage unit in Portland where I kept a bunch of old tools and camping gear. I used a $5 Master lock padlock on it cause I figured nobody would bother with a unit in the back corner. Came back one Sunday and the whole hasp was snapped like a twig, lock still closed but totally useless. Someone just pried the whole thing off the door frame and grabbed a few boxes. Insurance didn't cover squat cause the lock was considered too weak for the unit type. Now I spend at least $25 on a decent disc lock with a hardened shackle and I check the hasp bolts are recessed too. Anyone else notice storage places don't warn you about the lock standards until after something happens?

2 comments

2 Comments

holly8985d agoOG Member

Actually I heard this retired locksmith on a podcast say those cheap Master locks are so easy to pick you can literally open them with a paperclip and a bump key in under 10 seconds. He said thieves know the cheap ones use a softer metal on the inside too so they just snap the whole shackle with a small hydraulic cutter. I switched to a Squire lock after hearing that because even though it costs more the shackle is through hardened and it uses a double ball locking mechanism that's way harder to pick or shim.

miawalker5d ago

Honestly the real problem is those cheap locks practically tell thieves what to target. I used to work near a storage place and watched guys walk right past the disc locks and heavy shackles to the units with the little brass Master locks. They know exactly what they're looking for. Your lock is basically a sign that says "this guy cheaped out, easy score.