Theft and vandalism happen and the only thing that can prevent it is padlock that can’t be cut with bolt cutters. Let’s face it, all of us manual laborers have access to tools that can easily get past a standard Masterlock. Even some of these other “uncuttable” locks on the market we could get past. So, it’s time to look at the best uncuttable padlocks for protecting your stuff, period.
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Why Buy an Uncuttable Padlock?
We’ve all probably experienced something of ours getting stolen at one point. If not a work, perhaps a garden shed or garage break-in. A vehicle vandalized or a toolbox raided. Just because it happened once before doesn’t mean it has to happen again. You should feel safe about your belongings being safe.
No matter valuable you are using a padlock on: job site lockers, work trucks, chains, personal and work tool boxes to protect expensive tools—it should be the best uncuttable padlock. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best, high security padlocks that can’t be cut with bolt cutters so you can have an edge on protecting your valuables.
Best Bolt Cutter Proof Padlocks: At A Glance
For those who don’t feel like reading the article and searching through all 15 padlocks to find the best bolt cutter proof padlock on the list, we’ll quickly go over the ones that are the best depending on application.
Best padlocks depending on what performance you desire:
Bolt cutter proof and impossible to penetrate: Sargent & Greenleaf 951-C High Security Padlock
Bolt cutter proof and nearly impossible to penetrate: Sargent & Greenleaf Enviromental Padlock 0881
Bolt cutter proof on a budget: Commando Lock “Total Guard” Bolt Cutter Proof High Security Shrouded Padlock
Bolt cutter proof near the sea: FJM Triple Chrome Plated “D-Shape” Security Padlock
Best budget padlock: Puroma Stainless Steel Discus Keyed Padlock
Finding the Best Uncuttable Padlock
The more important it is to you, the tougher the padlock needs to be for the job. If you are already reading about the best padlocks that can’t be cut with bolt cutters then you are already a step ahead of the next would-be thief.
There are many types of locks out there, but they aren’t all the best. We’ve done the research and narrowed the playing field for you. It is important to be familiar with the various parts of a padlocks so you are choosing one that has the matching security measures you want.
Key Features of the Best Uncuttable Padlocks
- Three main components: While there are several components of a padlock, there are three of utmost importance—the body, shackle, and locking mechanism. The overall performance of your padlock will hinge on how cohesively these three work together.
- Body construction/material: Start with a solid foundation. The strength of anuncuttable padlockbegins with the material used by the manufacturer. Generally, padlocks are used for outdoor purposes; you will want to be mindful that the material can withstand the elements. Even if the application is for indoor use, the option to use it outdoors would be beneficial down the road. Better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it. Popular amongst high security padlocks are hardened steel, stainless steel, steel alloy, titanium, Titalium and brass.
- Protected shackle: The shackle is the most obvious first point of attack and where bolt cutters would be attempted. The shackle can be in one of three forms: open, closed, and semi-enclosed (or shouldered). In general, the shorter the shackle the more secure.
- Locking mechanism/number of pins: In condensed terms, the fewer the pins in the locking mechanism the lower the security. Competitive padlocks will begin around 5 or 6 pins and continue up to as many as 10 pins. In general, more pins means more resistance to prying.
- Keyed alike: Is this your only padlock or are you juggling multiple? Keyed alike options make for a more streamlined organization.
- Cost/performance requirements: Is it right for the job? A $100 uncuttable padlock isn’t needed on a suitcase; conversely a $20, 3-pin padlock should not be on your factory gates or toolbox.
15 Best Uncuttable Padlocks
We’ll break down the best uncuttable padlocks in no particular order. There are two main series we tend to focus on as the industry gold standard for high quality padlocks that can’t be cut with bolt cutters. Then, we’ll jump into some of the other best brands of uncuttable padlocks. All padlocks are high quality and different ones will be better depending on the application and what valuables they are protecting.
ABUS Series Uncuttable Padlocks
1. Abus 83/55mm Rock Steel Padlock CS
When it comes to bolt cutter proof padlocks, the ABUS 83CS/55 is one of the best on the market when weighing price versus performance. ABUS is one of the best known companies for providing quality padlocks that are super strong, and this lock is no exception.
When it comes to security, ABUS has a ranking system that goes up to 10. While many of our ABUS locks on this list have a 10 rating, you pay a pretty penny for that rating. This is roughly half the cost of the most secure ABUS locks and has a 9/10 safety rating. Not too shabby considering you don’t have to break the bank to get it.
The best feature on this lock is the shackle guard, protecting the shackle on both sides. This makes it difficult mechanically to get the bolt cutters near the shackle. It’s also made of hardened steel, making it further resistant to being cut by bolt cutters. As far as security goes, hardened steel is about as safe as it gets.
As for picking, it has a paracentric keyway, which curves the path making it difficult for a lock picker to figure it out. It’s also resistant to drilling, so you don’t have to worry about a shifty co-worker going to work with it with a drill during your lunch break. It’s also self-locking, so you don’t have to worry about whether you locked the lock or not. It’s also double-bolted and accepts Scandinavian Oval cylinders.
This lock also has a lot of nice features not available on most locks. For one, you can take out the cylinder to have it rekeyed and matched with a key you already use. Also, if you want to buy multiple locks, you can request a master key that opens all your locks or order your locks keyed alike. It’s also coated with ABUS’ Nano Protect coating which makes it extremely resistant to corrosion.
Furthermore, if you plan on securing a trailer or truck, you can use the shackle on the ConHasp Granit 215 by ABUS.
A great lock with great security and good protection against bolt cutters all at an affordable price.
2. ABUS 26/70 Diskus
When determining vulnerability of a padlock, one of the first places to examine is the shackle size and accessibility. The smaller or more compact the shackle is, the more difficult it will be to cut; bolt cutters cannot properly fit through thus not being able to supply enough force to penetrate the lock. This is where the ABUS Diskus comes into play.
360 degree protection make it an affordable padlock that can’t be cut. This ABUS Diskus is available in two different sizes, 50mm and 80mm. When the padlock is in place, due to the shackle being surrounded, it is almost impossible to actually access it.
The ABUS 26/70 Diskus comes keyed alike. German made assures a quality product will be in your possession. Their stainless steel and production standards really take it to the next level. While it can be applied by itself, ABUS recommends pairing this padlock with a hasp to further protect from attack or tampering.
Overall, this is a pretty solid padlock for the price and very popular, you’ve probably seen this padlock just about everywhere. The style, weight, and the fact that it’s corrosion-resistant, make this padlock good for an outdoor tool box or work shed.
3. ABUS Granit 37ST/55
If your security needs are exclusively outdoor focused, this recent addition to the ABUS Granit series may be for you. This padlock is definitely a tough one to cut. The distinguishing factor between the ABUS Grant 37ST/55 and the 37RK/80 is that the former is best suited for use near the water and the shackle is exposed, making it more prone to attackers.
This ABUS is has a substantially larger lock body size. The exceptional German engineered stainless steel is intended to withstand highly corrosive environments such as coastal or marine environments.
If the SZP abbreviation is new to you, following is a cliff notes synopsis. The suffix directly pertains to the keyway; how it is constructed and to ultimately provide increased protection against copying. Think of it in terms of being able to open a locked door from one side with one key, but that same key will not work on the other side of the door. One would be able to use an SZP key with an old padlock, but the key to the old padlock will not work with the SZP padlock.
If you need an uncuttable padlock and work with corrosive materials or near the water (or get a lot of heavy rain in your area), this is definitely one you’d want to check out.
4. Abus Granit Plus 37RK/80
Though it be little, it sure is mighty. If you are serious about investing in a padlock that cannot be cut by bolt cutters, the ABUS Granit Plus is going to be your best bet. Called one of the world’s most secure padlocks, the tensile resistance is upwards of six tonnes and it is crafted from hardened steel. (Translation: sheer force of will will not get you inside this bad boy. High security is promised and delivered).
The 37RK/80 is a re-keyable padlock; further features include the ABUS Plus disc cylinder for the highest protection against picking. It wraps may of the features of their other padlocks into one. This padlock is of the more conventional design.
Picking this lock is extremely difficult due to the ABUS-Plus disc cylinder. Also, the cylinder is inserted from the top, making less susceptible to drilling attempts and pulling. And because of its sophisticated security technology, it meets the standard set forth by insurance companies for insuring your valuables. It’s even been found to meet Swedish insurance company standards.
With a slightly higher price, high resistance to elements and innovative technology, this padlock is ideally suited to storage containers (or tool boxes), factory gates, and warehouses.
5. ABUS 80TI/50 Titalium Aluminum Alloy Padlock
The Titalium material sounds like a sibling to Captain America’s iridium shield. In all fairness, perhaps they should incorporate that into their marketing! Titalium is a unique metal; it combines increased strength levels with extreme lightness. This special aluminum alloy derives from the aircraft and automobile industry. It is an ideal alternative to brass products if lightweight while still sturdy is the goal.
This ABUS model is a keyed different padlock. It is the first of this kind to be featured on the list. In short, even if working within the same manufacturer, every padlock of this specific model will have a different key.
While it does not feature the Black Granit of some its familial padlocks, a NANO coating surrounds this ABUS padlock. If you wish to use it outdoors, there is element protection. A hardened steel shackle makes it a bolt cutter proof padlock.
If looks are important to you, the Titalium gives it a features a sleek chrome finish.
This padlock is ideal for smaller valuables, or for use on a work locker, work bike lock or work lunch box. Should it be paired with a chain, potential uses are expanded. However, this is not ideal for heavy duty applications given its smaller size and thickness.
All in all, this is a solid padlock but more resistant to bolt cutters than actually bolt cutter proof. However, for light duty applications you can be confident that this will offer you superior protection compared to your standard Masterlock or another cheaper lock.
Stanley Hardware Series Uncuttable Padlocks
6. Stanley Shrouded Laminated Steel Padlock
If a durable shrouded shackle padlock at an affordable price is what you are looking for, consider the Stanley Laminated Steel Padlock.
The Stanley Laminated Steel Padlock is made of… you guessed it… laminated steel! This material is constructed from smaller, thinner steel plates riveted together. The rivet heads can be an Achilles heel to this padlock, which is precisely why Stanley Hardware not only puts steel caps in place for added protection and also designs the heads to be recessed.
The shrouded steel shackle is designed to protect against saw attempts and bolt cutters (also known as a “shoulder casing”). Thus, it holds up well as an uncuttable padlock. This padlock also features a dual ball bearing locking system which is in place to resist pry and hammer attacks.
Commercial grade six pin brass cylinder allows for a re-keyable feature. It features a protected keyway, similar to the #1 ABUS lock already discussed. This makes it protected against lock picking.
This rugged, heavy duty padlock will work well on the job site, securing outdoor projects, toolboxes and providing a medium-high level of security to valuables.
7. Stanley Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock
Directly competing with the ABUS padlocks in price for security; if the name doesn’t indicate heavy duty, these specs will. Meet one of the best uncuttable locks on the market. With a sleek and elongated design, you might be surprised upon picking up this Stanley Padlock that it weighs in, literally, at two pounds.
This Stanley padlock is heavy, has more pins than your average padlock, and all things considered it is easy to use. Just, don’t misplace the key. Hardened steel is accomplished by exposing the standard, more mild steel to a heat treatment. It is a process that is used on most general purpose padlocks. The purpose? To make the exterior more resilient to saw and bolt cutter attacks.
If you like to shop local, the Stanley brand is American based and has been crafting hardware since well before the turn of the century. Hardened molybdenum alloy steel encase a mere 1” shackle. The smaller the shackle clearance, the more difficult it is to insert bolt cutters.
An additional security feature present: the padlock must be locked before the key will release itself.
The Stanley Shrouded padlock is well balanced between practicality, durability and affordability. With the weather and element resistant hardened steel, shrouded shackle, and overall girth this padlock will can be used for high security needs.
8. Stanley 24/7 All-Weather Padlock (Solid Brass)
Moving away from the European titan that is ABUS, we arrive at American founded and manufactured Stanley Hardware. This being the first brass padlock on the list, let’s examine the differences from stainless steel which is so prominently featured.
The immediate positive to note about a solid brass padlock is that it will not rust! This is due to the minuscule amount of iron in the material which slows the speed of oxidation. The keyway is protected by a rubber molding to prevent internal corrosion. Don’t let the brass fool you, this padlock still holds its own. It holds a globally recognized higher security level.
It features a removable cylinder which is unique in that it allows the consumer to either key alike or different. The shackle is constructed of stainless steel which provides cut proof assurance.
The Stanley 24/7 is a tough padlock to cut but it’s still the most susceptible to bolt cutting in the Stanley lineup. The shackle is exposed, making it vulnerable. However, it’s a solid lock at an affordable price. It also provides good prying resistance and lock picking resistance, making it worth mentioning for lower security application.
Other Brands of Best Bolt Cutter Proof Padlocks
9. Master Lock High Security Pro Series Padlock
“The bump stops here!” Master Lock has a humorous approach to their uncuttable padlock. Bumping is a practice where force is applied to a lock to “bump” the pins downward and thus out of place and opening the lock. Security assurance from more than just a pair of bolt cutters.
This Master Lock is of the keyed alike variety, which means multiple locks will open with the same key. If having a ring of keys is not appealing, here is a solution.
A hardened boron alloy steel shackle increases the ante of this being a bolt cutter proof padlock. Dual operating ball bearings work diligently to resist attacks from a pulling or prying attack.
This padlock is available in a single pack or in packs up to 8. Should a consumer have multiple gates for example to secure. Excellent padlock and a fantastic, affordable, but also secure, option.
10. Puroma Stainless Steel Padlock (Discus, Keyed)
The discus style is specially designed to be a padlock that can’t be cut. It’s also one of the most affordable padlocks on the list and it still offers good security.
It is made from traditional stainless steel to protect against corrosion should you want to use it outdoors. It’s also waterproof. It is also one of the lighter padlocks featured on our list weighing in just under a pound. And due to its light weight, it’s great to add on to a toolbox or a lunch box. Anything you plan on carrying.
There are no special card keys, but that’s not a deal break. Also, some people have had the keys break from time to time, but it’s really hit or miss. And for the cost savings, it’s a small price to pay.
So, if you’re looking for good security at a budget price, this padlock is one of the cheapest on the list. It’s great if you plan on buying padlocks in bulk because it’s so inexpensive. There’s also an upgraded version of the same padlock if you want a thicker shackle and it doesn’t cost much more. However, this version is an overall larger padlock.
11. FJM Triple Chrome Plated, D-shaped Padlock
Taking another step away from a traditional padlock shape, enter the FJM D-Shaped padlock. Also known as a shutter or anvil style, it is a remarkably shaped uncuttable padlock. Triple-chrome plated makes it especially durable against the elements and ideal for marine environments should the need arise.
Due to the shape, it is better suited for some applications versus others. For instance, it’s not ideal for a toolbox but it’s a good for a gate. However, it is versatile for the applications it is often used for. With its free rotating technology, the D-shaped padlock can be used in both a vertical or horizontal position.
Due to the shape of the hardened steel shackle, this high security padlock grants minimal access to bolt cutters. Also, its design makes it difficult to cut with a saw or any other type of cutting tool.
Furthermore, this padlock requires the keyway to rotate a full 90 degrees prior to connecting with the disks, which offers additional security from lock pickers. Additionally, the keys will only release from the lock when it is in a fully locked position.
Overall, as far as locks that can’t be cut by bolt cutters, the FJM will surely make a would-be intruder take pause. A great padlock and not too pricey.
12. Commando Total Guard High Security Padlock
Uncuttable. Unbeatable. This American made military grade padlock boasts some truly remarkable features. “Lock it and leave it.” Not only do you want a padlock that can’t be cut, you want it to withstand any other form of attack. This padlock does.
Total Guard is highly pick/rake/bump/bolt cutter resistant padlock. It truly excels in security. It also has 10 security pins (one of the highest on our list) which makes it almost impenetrable by lock pickers.
With its shrouded shackle, bolt cutters cannot get to it. Other padlocks have varying degrees of shroud coverage, however the Total Guard has 25% more shrouded coverage than any other bolt cutter proof padlock on the market. In this model, the shroud covers four sides and encases the shackle tremendously. The only problem is the because of the shroud, you may find the lock difficult to lock at times.
The Total Guard is also designed from American Carbon Steel, making it remarkably weather resistant. This material is especially difficult to get through with hammer blows.
Marketed as the an ideal choice for security purposes, this padlock would best suit outdoor use with high security in mind. Use it for your most expensive items.
And with bulk pricing options, you can get 12-pack of these padlocks for an affordable price.
The Commando Total Guard High Security definitely earns two thumbs up as one of the best uncuttable locks out there. And if that’s not enough, the company guarantees this padlock for life.
13. Abloy PL 362 Protect2 Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock
Do you have thousands of dollars of tools you want to protect? Need to lock up your work truck or van doors tight? This lock is designed for where maximum security is required.
The Abloy PL 362 is a tank of a padlock, similar to the Sargent & Greenleaf, but at a lower cost. If you truly want a padlock that can’t be cut by bolt cutters, this padlock is it.
Case hardened boron steel make up the body. This material is naturally weather resistant. The raised shoulders around the shackle reduce exposure. This gives less surface area of the shackle to be exposed to a saw or pair of bolt cutters.
A top loaded, rotating disk cylinder provides security against drilling attempts. It’s also resistant to nearly any other type of attack, including cutting, grinding, prying and bashing. And with its patented security technology, this lock is essentially pick proof.
This padlock features a lock-to-release component, an additional feature to ensure you do not lose the key.
With bunker features, a shrouded shackle, drill and pry resistance, and extreme resistance from nearly any type of attack, this is by far one of the best padlocks on the market. The only downside if that for this level of security, you have to pay a price for it.
14. Sargent & Greenleaf 951-C High Security Padlock
If you’re looking for the most impenetrable padlock on the market, the Sargent & Greenleaf 951-C. This padlock is so good, it’s been used for decades by people and then passed down to their kids. There’s a reason the government uses these padlocks pretty much exclusively, it’s hands down the best padlock you’ll find.
Uniquely different from prior padlocks on this list, the 951-C is tested to the highest standards imaginable. This lock is even resistance tested by subjecting it to liquid nitrogen. It is specially and specifically designed to withstand any forced attack.
This lock is bolt cutter proof, drop and shatter proof, hammer proof, saw proof, the list goes on. The puzzle piece body design comes apart into two pieces when the key is inserted and turned. Why? Should the need arise to replace the cylinder easy interior access is granted.
With a minuscule 5/8” steel shackle opening, this is assuredly one of the toughest and one of the best uncuttable locks. However, with great power comes a great price tag. Most people won’t be able to afford this.
This padlock is designed for commercial grade and industrial use. You’d only want it if you had something more valuable than the lock itself to protect.
The cylinder is Medeco. The body is composite alloy. The shackle is hardened steel. Breaking into this padlock would be on par with breaking into Fort Knox.
This cut-proof and nearly indestructible padlock is best suited for very high security and protecting only the most expensive valuables. However, if you’re looking for an indestructible lock that will never, ever be broken into, you will want to buy this lock.
15. Sargent and Greenleaf Environmental Padlock (Model 0881)
If you’re looking for Sargent & Greenleaf protection at a more affordable price, the Sargent & Greenleaf model 0881 is an excellent choice. Not only is it less than 1/10 the price of the 951-C, its nearly as impenetrable.
This lock is mainly used in military applications due to its strength. You can pound this lock with a sludge hammer, shoot it with a gun, whatever, you’d not getting this lock to break. Unless you had access to 7.62 NATO armor piercing cartridges (used by an M60 machine gun), you’re not going to break this lock. And even though the shackle is exposed on this lock, it cannot be cut with bolt cutters.
This lock is heavy duty, weighing in at nearly two pounds. If you compare this to a commercial grade Masterlock, it makes the Masterlock look like a toy (see below). It has a 9/16″ shackle diameter, which is one of the largest diameters you’ll see on the market. It’s also weather-resistant and has self-cleaning cylinders, so you don’t have to worry about it getting dunked up and not opening.
Made in the USA, you can trust on the quality and dependability of Sargent & Greenleaf locks. The company set the bar for security in almost every industry and if you want an affordable lock from one of the best companies around, it’d be hard to go wrong with the 0881 by Sargent & Greenleaf as one of the best bolt cutter proof lock.
FAQ: Bolt Cutter Proof Padlocks
1. What if a key is lost to a Commando lock?
It is encouraged by the company to key one of the two included keys as a backup initially. Per their security protocol, they do not re-issue key codes for lost or unregistered keys.
2. What are the ideal materials for an uncuttable padlock?
Pressed steel, hardened steel, solid brass, laminated steel, or solid steel alloy. Suitable material depends on where the padlock will be applied. For indoor use, pressed steel or solid brass is appropriate. As application moves outdoors, less corrosive metals are best (or coated metals).
Also, consider a lock that has multiple alloys and ceramic inserts to give it added strength. The Sargent & Greenleaf 951C includes several types of inserts to make it more resistant to any type of cutting.
3. What does the number of pins correlate to in a padlock?
In short terms, the more pins a lock mechanism has, the more secure it should be. A greater number of pin stacks means there are a greater possible number of variations. This does not mean it is impossible to pick; but, above 5, possible combinations would take far too long to manipulate. Thus, deterring a would-be intruder or lock picker .
4. Is there such a thing as an impenetrable padlock?
While a 100% theft proof, bolt cut proof padlock can never be guaranteed, a consumer can get incredibly close. The closest you’re going to come to impenetrable is the Sargent & Greenleaf 951C.
5. Which lock is hardest to pick?
If you’re worried about lock picking, the ABUS 37/80 Granit and the Abloy PL 362 is the closest you’ll find in the consumer grade category that are close lock pick proof. There’s a good list on Reddit for the hardest to pick locks that they put in their “Black Belt Lockpicking” category.
6. Can I Make My Padlock Bolt Cutter Resistant?
If you are looking to save money there are some things you can do to reduce the chance that a padlock can be cut with bolt cutters. One of the most popular methods is placing nuts and washers onto the shackle of your padlock. This method is outlined in the video below:
In Conclusion
The are some of the best padlocks that can’t be cut on the market. Options for all budget and security needs have been presented in this article. To review, first examine the value of what is needing to be secured. Lower value translates to a minimal security padlock. Items kept in work or gym lockers that are removed daily, i.e would be well served by the Puroma Keyed Discus padlock.
Second, where will the padlock be applied. Indoor use has a much lower threshold and resistance needs. Will it be used near water or in a highly corrosive environment? Pay special attention to metals that are built to withstand: hardened steel.
Third, and finally, how high are your security requirements? If doors, containers, gates, vehicles are in sensitive areas you will want to ensure as many anti-theft features are available. Higher number of pins in the cylinder to dissuade even a determined lock-picker; a top loaded cylinder which works to thwart drilling attempts; a raised, shrouded, hardened steel shackle to deter thieves with bolt cutters.
Choosing any one of the padlocks above is sure to keep all of your valuables that much safer and give you a stronger peace of mind.