Advice Centre

Practical buying advice from the team at Nothing But Padlocks. Pick a topic below and go straight to the guides that answer your question.

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8 topics, 40 guides

Our top picks

Short on time? Start with the padlocks we recommend most, sorted by the job in hand.

High security and insurance

CEN grades, Sold Secure ratings and what your insurer will actually ask to see.

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Combination padlocks

No keys to lose. Pick the right code lock for gym lockers, luggage and boats.

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Outdoor and marine

Salt air, rain and frost finish off cheap locks fast. These are built to cope.

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Home, garden and travel

Sheds, gates, garages, bikes and suitcases. Everyday security, sorted.

Business and sites

For site managers, estates teams and anyone locking up kit at scale.

See commercial padlocks

How padlocks work

What sits inside the body, how master keying works and how locks get attack-tested.

Fittings and care

A padlock is only as strong as the hasp it hangs on. Here's how to get both right.

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