Lock Types

Unlike most other locks, padlocks are portable, usually measuring anywhere from an inch to several inches long. Because these locks can be carried from place to place, they are often used to secure crates, cases, or storage buildings. They are rarely used as the primary lock on a place of residence.

Three main parts make up a padlock: the body, shackle, and lock mechanism. Usually the shackle is "U" shaped, and it is this part that can be opened and closed / locked. A padlock shackle generally slides out of the main lock body and then swings open. The shackle is fed through some secure loop on the door to be closed, and the end of the shackle is then secured back within the main body of the lock itself.

While older padlocks utilized lever tumblers to secure the shackle, most modern ones do not. Rather, they employ a plug within the cylinder which, when the key is entered, turns, allowing a part called the "locking dog" to retract from notches cut into the shackle.

One popular variation of the padlock is a combination lock, which typically still uses the tumbler mechanism. A combination lock works the same as a standard padlock, except, rather than opening with a key, a dial is turned, and as it points to the correct numbers, one by one, the tumblers inside open, allowing access to the lock.

The history of the padlock can be traced back at least to the 1800s in Scandinavia and neighboring parts of Europe. A good padlock can be one of the best ways of securing your valuables, as a strong one is virtually impossible to break into without either the key or bolt cutters.