Keyed Alike? Restricted Padlocks? CS? IB? What Does It All Mean?

Here at Toolchimp we know that all the different padlock brands, types and codes can become a little confusing when trying to pick the right padlock for your application. We made this page in the hopes of clearing up some of that confusion so that you can make the right choice next time you need to purchase a new padlock.

Here are some common phrases used when purchasing padlocks and what they mean.

KA (Keyed Alike) - Keyed Alike padlocks are available for most of their range. Every padlock you order comes complete with two keys. When you order Keyed alike padlocks this will mean that every key you receive will open all of the Keyed alike padlocks you order (One Key Fits All). All KA Padlocks have designated key numbers and when you order from us make sure you take a note of the key number to make it easier for you to order more to the same key suite.

Keyed To Differ - Keyed to differ means each lock has its own key. Basically speaking, you can’t use the same key to open a different lock so it is ‘keyed different’.

Restricted Padlocks - A Restricted padlock is one that uses a specific key which is extremely difficult to copy and or one which has a key unique to a specific lock or suite of locks and no other lock will have the same key number. This specific type of lock offers maximum security and every individual owner who has a restricted suite are entered into a central data base to ensure protection. If you require a restricted suite then please give us a call on 01376 346197 so we can help.

CS (Closed Shackle) - Closed Shackle Padlocks are designed to expose as little of the shackle as possible and therefore make it more difficult to attack with bolt-cutters and saws. Many insurance companies require you have a closed shackle.Closed shackle padlocks are ideal for high security applications, securing containers, outbuildings, and roller shutters.

HB (Long Shackle) - Long Shackle Padlocks enable them to be used in situations where a normal length shackle may be too restrictive and unacessable. It is important to remember that by having a longer shackle it will make attacks by bolt-cutters and saws easier. If you really need a long shackle padlock, try and go for the size up so that the shackle is as thick as it can be to fit through the hole of the hasp or chain you're attaching it to.

IB (Stainless Steel Shackle) - Stainless Steel Shackles Provide greater protection for the shackle when being used in outdoor enviroments. Will not rust or corrode in harsh enviroments.

LB (Long Body) - Padlocks with a longer body, generally for lockout and tagout applications.

LOTO (Lockout, Tagout) - Lock out, Tag out is a safety procedure used in industry and research settings to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not able to be started up again prior to the completion of maintenance or repair work.

MB (Brass Shackle) - Much like Stainless Steel Shackles; Brass Shackles Provide greater protection for the shackle when being used in outdoor enviroments. Will not rust or corrode in harsh enviroments

RK (Rekeyable) - Rekeyable padlocks allow you to remove the old cylinder and either change the pins in it or replace the cylinder with a new one. Then, only the new key will open the lock.

CEN Grade - CEN grade is a testing standard for padlocks and stands for Central European Norm. Major padlock manufacturers came together to devise a testing standard that was relevant to padlocks. There are 6 levels within the CEN grade, ranging from general use to maximum security. CEN Level 6 padlocks are rare and are really for more commercial purposes. Those intended for consumer purposes, CEN level 5 is usually the highest used. We tend to recommend anything between 3-5 for high security but do follow at least the minimum CEN level requested by your insurance company.

Why are Keyed Alike + Restricted padlocks more expensive?

Keyed Alike and Restricted Padlocks are generally more expensive due to the additional manufacturing cost associated with making a padlock to a specific key number.