It's a good idea to put some research into the project of buying an outdoor padlock that will be exposed to the elements, especially where any water that gets into the works will freeze and make it impossible to open the lock, at least until you've found your extension cords and hairdryer.
So the issues are:
- how does the lock's design prevent water from entering?
- how thick is the shank? (too thick and it won't enter a narrower existing hasp)
- the other normal lock questions like resistance to bolt cutters etc.
This lock has the thick plastic drape on top but of course water can still enter where the shank slides so I put vaseline there to help even more. Time will tell. I was careful with the vaseline as I know that excess lubrication then attracts dust and dirt which over time gums up the mechanism. There is also a plastic cover on the bottom, that snaps into the keyhole. It is attached to the bottom of the lock and swivels. When it snaps all the way into the keyhole, it is difficult to snap out and requires something like a flat screwdriver blade to jimmy it loose - fingernails won't do it, not mine anyway. So be prepared for that.
I measure the shank thickness of this as just under 5/16" or 8mm. It was a relief when it fit into the metal loop, or staple, of my existing hasp. Some of the other locks I saw had coatings on their shanks that would have prevented this. This shank is thicker than my previous, rusted lock but luckily not much.
This is the only lock I've found that meets my needs so I bought it in spite of the bright yellow color of the body which in my neighborhood is like waving a red flag to malicious vandals. ("Oh, lookie, she thinks she's got her barn locked. We'll show her!") I fixed that, though, with some black electrical tape wound carefully around the yellow body. That won't stay forever in our hot/cold climate but can easily be replaced.
Not only is the lock sturdy and water resistant, but the keys are far more substantial than those that come with your average padlock. The lock is large - I measure 1 7/8" wide and 3 1/2" long when in locked configuration, and heavy. It must weigh a pound although I haven't put it on a scale.
| Brand | Master Lock |
|---|---|
| Lock Type | Key |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 6.56 x 1.77 x 3.63 inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Security |
| Style | 1 pack |
| Color | Yellow |
| Number of Pieces | 5, 8 |
| Finish Type | Laminated |
| Included Components | Two Keys |
| Controller Type | Hand Control |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Item Weight | 16 Ounces |
| Manufacturer | Master Lock |
| Part Number | 911DPF |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 6.56 x 1.77 x 3.63 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Item model number | 911DPF |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | 2 1/8-inch |
| Finish | Laminated |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
