As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.
When in the market for the best gate lock, you can’t just opt for the first product you lay your eyes on. It has to be made by a reputable brand that specializes in property security measures.
An average lock that offers nothing but flowery words and a tempting price tag will put your property at risk.
However, finding a high-quality gate lock can be quite a challenging feat considering the barrage of knock-off products on the market.
With that said, we highly recommend paying close attention to the information that we’re about to share as it’ll help you pinpoint the right lock for your gate.
Master Lock 178D Combination Padlock
The 178D combination padlock from Master Lock employs a four-digit combination that you can adjust whenever you want. Meaning you can alter the combination regularly so that your lock number is always new, or you can simply leave it as one number.
This product is by far the most popular gate lock on the market, and righteously so for a range of good reasons. The padlock can be used indoors and outdoors. It can be used for just about any lockable entryway, thanks to its versatility and robust design.
When using the Master Lock 178D padlock, you won’t have to worry about intruders or animals getting into your property. It’s made of rugged steel that’s resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading.
The lock features a steel shackle that helps prevent tampering and cutting through the lock.
The 178D padlock has a full damage-resistant construction, making it one of the most rugged gate locks on our list.
For you to unlock this gate lock, you need to push it after inserting the correct combination. It’s also worth noting that this lock is handy enough for portable use.
What we like most about this product is that while it’s incredibly effective and durable, it doesn’t come at an extortionate price tag. It also has a simple interface that you’ll find easy to figure out. Also, the 178D padlock is available in packages of 1, 2, and 4 units for convenience.
We’d recommend this padlock for low and medium-security purposes only. If you’re looking for a high-security gate lock, we suggest you look into a different one.
The 178D is quite vulnerable to power tools and doesn’t offer combination try limits—nevertheless, a great lock for the price.
Pros:
➢ Ideal for securing smaller spaces
➢ Changeable combination padlock
➢ Boasts durable steel construction
➢ Comes at an affordable price tag
➢ Available in numerous packages
Cons:
➢ Not unyielding against power tools
➢ Doesn’t have combination try limits
Mighty Mule FM143 Automatic Gate Lock
Mighty Mule’s Automatic Gate Lock is a mighty product indeed. If you’re in the market for a lock that’s perfect for high-security purposes and can withstand almost all forms of tampering, this is your best bet.
It can also be used as a GTO/Pro auto gate swing opener.
The FM143 Automatic Gate Lock, as you might have guessed from its name, can be locked and unlocked automatically. It uses the latest automatic modern technology.
Additionally, The FM143 is also compatible with all single and dual Mighty Mule products for convenience.
How durable is the Mighty Mule Automatic Gate Lock exactly? Well, it can withstand a weight of up to 2500 pounds, and it is tested against drilling, cutting, and hammering.
With that considered, you can rely on this gate lock to secure heavy doors and for almost all high-security purposes.
If you’re wondering how this lock is capable of withstanding such tremendous weight, it’s mainly because of the combination between the zinc-plated housing materials and steel-plated block.
Moreover, it was tested for durability under frosty and wet conditions, and it performed remarkably well.
The Automatic Gate Lock is quite compact considering its tremendous durability, as it measures in at 13x8x3 inches and weighs in at 6 pounds.
Its automatic functionality relies on 4 AA Alkaline cell batteries, which isn’t the best battery type out there. Still, it gets the job done reasonably well.
The Automatic Gate Lock might look a bit complex, but it’s one of the easiest gate locks to assemble and install.
Luckily the installation process shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes. Lastly, the FM143 gate lock is backed by a 1-year warranty for your convenience.
Pros:
➢ Straightforward installation process
➢ Remarkable force-handling capacity
➢ Features zinc-plated steel housing
➢ Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
➢ Compatible with GTO/Pro openers
Cons:
➢ Not the most efficient battery type
➢ Not exactly a budget-friendly lock
MagnaLatch ML3VPKA Magnetic Gate Lock
If you’re looking for a gate latch that can prevent children and animals from unlocking your gate, we strongly recommend giving the MagnaLatch Magnetic Gate Lock a shot. It’s great for safety as only adults can operate it.
The MagnaLatch Magnetic Gate Lock employs the magnetic triggering method, and a key operates it. The material used in the construction of the outer portion of this lock is insanely sturdy. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about it yielding very quickly if it gets hammered, cut, or drilled.
The MagnaLatch Magnetic Gate Lock is ideal for high-security purposes, thanks to its admirable durability and magnetic triggering operation. You can use it to prevent your children or pets from hovering outside of the gate. The design is sealed internally for protection from the elements.
Aside from a drill, all the components you need for the installation process are included in the package. Installing this lock isn’t time-consuming at all. It’s so simple that you can get it done in a few minutes.
The MagnaLatch Magnetic Gate Lock features an indicator that helps alert you when the gate is locked or unlocked. Not only that, but it also features an onboard alarm system that continues to ring as long as the gate is unlocked. Upon locking the gate, the alarm system stops sounding.
We’d also like to note that this is a highly adjustable lock, meaning that it can be used vertically or horizontally. It can also be adjusted for gate sag or ground shift. The lock is low-maintenance in general, so you don’t have to worry about it rusting—all in all, a very formidable gate lock.
Pros:
➢ Excellent use of magnetic triggering
➢ Its operation doesn’t jam whatsoever
➢ Features a key lock for extra security
➢ The construction is distinctly durable
➢ Straightforward installation process
Cons:
➢ Made mainly for square post gates
➢ It could benefit from more stainless
Keystone Black Key-Lockable Gate Lock
If you’re trying to secure a gate that’s made from vinyl or wood, there’s no better option than the Keystone Black Key-Lockable Gate Lock. Whether it’s a right-handed or left-handed gate, this is a gate lock that will certainly suffice and won’t allow for any sort of gate jamming or sticking.
This gate latch from Keystone Black is manufactured with durable nylon polymer and innovative self-latching technology. This combination grants the lock excellent force-handling capabilities. It also ensures optimal durability and performance in extreme weather conditions.
In one of the tests that this gate lock underwent, it was placed underwater for about 24 hours to test its performance in wet conditions. It offered ideal performance after it was removed from the water. It’s also UV-resistant, so its performance won’t be affected by high temperatures.
The Keystone Black Key-Lockable Gate Lock looks a little more complex than some of the other locks on our list. Still, despite its seemingly-complex aesthetics, it doesn’t require much effort and time to be installed. It comes with a detailed instruction manual that will guide you through it.
We’d also like to point out that this is one of the most compact and lightweight gate locks on this list, as it measures in at 1.5×5.5×3 inches and weighs for about 1 pound. The turning of the lock with the key is super smooth, as well as the button’s action, with rare incidents of stuckness.
Another thing that we’d like to point out is that this latch isn’t ideal for high-security purposes, as it won’t be able to stand against power tools. Lastly, the lock is backed by a one-million cycle warranty provided by the manufacturer.
Pros:
➢ Constructed with durable nylon polymer
➢ Resistant to extreme weather conditions
➢ Boasts efficient self-latching technology
➢ It’s highly resistant to corrosion and rust
➢ Comes with a one-million cycle warranty
Cons:
➢ Not preferred for high-security purposes
➢ It can only be employed for square gates
Master Lock 141D Aluminum Padlock
Yet another excellent padlock from Master Lock that features a keyed locking mechanism that’s super easy to use. Not only is it one of the best key gate locks available today, but it’s also one of the most affordable ones. And it’s available in various colors for your convenience.
The 141D boasts aluminum construction that’s highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and scratches. The body is about 40mm wide, and it features a 6mm shackle. The 141D is a highly durable lock that will easily stand the test of time. It’s perfect for low-security and medium-security purposes.
The Master Lock 141D features a dual-locking mechanism with a four-pin cylinder that allows it to hold its own against prying and picking. The great thing about this lock and other padlocks is that they can be used for an extensive range of purposes, not just securing a property’s gate.
The main difference between the 141D and 178D is that the former isn’t a combination lock like the latter, meaning that it can only be locked/unlocked using the provided key. If you’re someone who isn’t fond of handling keys, the Master Lock 141D might not be the right choice for you.
And while the lack of combination locking might be viewed as a negative, it’s actually the reason why we’ve included this lock on our list. The fact that this lock can only be locked/unlocked by a key is a great defense mechanism against codebreakers. Less is more sometimes.
The Master Lock 141D might be a tiny lock, but it’s definitely a mighty one. It was put to various durability tests, including tough hammering and cutting, and it passed with flying colors. If you’re looking for a straightforward, highly-durable, budget-friendly padlock, the 141D is your best bet.
Pros:
➢ Boasts remarkably durable construction
➢ Straightforward key-based user interface
➢ Available at a highly affordable price tag
➢ Resistant to rust, corrosion, and scratch
➢ Available in black, blue, and pink colors
Cons:
➢ Cannot hold its own against power tools
➢ Not designed for high-security purposes
National Hardware V6203 LokkLatch Lock
We’ve covered a few locks that are designed primarily for square post gates, but the V6203 is a lock that’s geared towards fences and pool gates. The National Hardware V6203 is, in fact, one of the most effective and most affordable automatic locks for metal and wood gates as well.
This automatic gate look is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, as it’s built from stainless steel parts and industrial-strength polymer. This combination grants it high force-handling capacity, so you don’t have to worry about it yielding in the face of hammering and power tools.
The National Hardware V6203 LokkLatch Lock features six side fixing legs that allow for simple installation. You don’t need to be a mechanically-inclined individual to be able to install this lock and don’t need to hire someone to do it for you. It’s all laid out for you in the manual.
You’d think that such a hardwearing lock would be extremely heavy and bulky. Still, the V6203 is one of the most compact and lightweight automatic locks on the market, measuring in at 4.1×5.4×1 inches and weigh in at only 10 ounces, so it’s not going to be cumbersome to handle.
Not only is it one of the most durable and most affordable locks on this list, but the V6203 is also one of the most appealing in terms of design and color. Into the bargain, it’s backed by a lifetime warranty that shows just how confident that manufacturer is in their build quality.
Pros:
➢ Perfect for almost all security purposes
➢ Available at a budget-friendly price tag
➢ Can be adjusted vertically or horizontally
➢ Has one of the most appealing designs
➢ Lifetime warranty
Cons:
➢ Needs regular oiling to ensure efficiency
➢ The locking mechanism drags a little bit
Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Gate Lock
Due to the wide variety of products on the market, pinpointing the right lock for your gate can be hard if you don’t know what to look for. Below are the facets you need to take into consideration.
Materials & Durability
It’s hard to find a gate lock that isn’t durable. Still, the extent of durability usually varies from one gate lock to the next, depending on the materials that were used to manufacture it. The models that are made of steel tend to be the most durable, as well as electromagnetic gate locks.
The vast majority of gate locks are manufactured with metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, iron, and more. Each material flaunts a distinct level of durability, and your choice of lock should be based on the level of security that you’re trying to achieve for your gate.
Another thing you want to pay attention to is whether the lock is weather-resistant or not. Water is the worst enemy of metals, and so your gate lock needs to be water-resistant as well so that it doesn’t rust or corrode. Go for a lock that features a thick, waterproof coating for best results.
Ease of Installation
If you do not normally carry out complex home improvement projects, it makes sense to go for easy to install items. This way, you spend less money on hiring a professional to install it for you. Generally speaking, digital locks tend to be the easiest to assemble and install.
The vast majority of gate locks are accompanied by detailed instruction manuals that guide you through their installation processes. We strongly recommend consulting these manuals to ensure proper installation. Most locks come with the needed equipment for the installation.
Measure of Security
There are various types of gate locks on the market, from padlock combination locks and digital gate locks to key lockable latches. Digital combination gate locks tend to offer the highest level of security. In contrast, padlock combinations and key lockable latches offer low-to-medium security.
Product Warranty
Most high-quality gate locks tend to be backed by warranties. The warranty period varies based on the nature of the lock. However, you should expect lock warranties to cover up to one million lock closures. We don’t recommend buying a lock that isn’t backed by any sort of warranty.
How Do You Secure a Gate?
There are various ways you can beef up the level of security that your gate provides. One of the most basic ways to do so is to spread barbed wire around the fence/gate. Another thing you can do is grow thorny roses around the fence. It’ll offer great aesthetics as well as notable security.
Another thing you can do to ensure maximum security for your property is to make sure the gate is completely flat and as tall as possible. You don’t want your gate to have any foot or handholds as they allow for easier climbing. Also, make sure the gate is sturdy so that it can’t be kicked in.
We also suggest setting up security cameras around your gate or fence so that you can identify anyone who attempts to break into your property. Position the cameras for maximum coverage. Try to obscure the position of the cameras as much as you can so that they’re not detectable.
How Do You Unlock a Gate Lock?
It all boils down to the lock type. If it’s a combination lock, you’ll have to enter a four-digit access combination for it to be unlocked. If it’s a traditional keyed lock, you must utilize a key to unlock it. Other gate locks rely on smartphone apps to be locked or unlocked.
How Do You Lock a Gate With Two Locks?
First of all, you must measure the distance around the pole and post where the fence meets the gate. Following, you want to add about three inches to the measured distance to ensure ease of installation. Divide the result in half, and you get the length of your two pieces of chain.
Now you need to insert the shackle of one of the locks you’re planning to use into the first link of each chain. After that, you want to close the lock to secure the links together. The result of this operation will be one long chain that has a single lock at the center.
Take the chain and wrap it around the post and pole, with the first lock centered on just one side of the fence. The other side of the fence post should be where the loose ends of your long chain hang. Now slide the shackle of the second lock over the two loose ends and close the lock.
Final Thoughts
With the aid of the information provided in this article, you should be able to pinpoint the optimal lock for your gate. All of the gate locks on this list are incredibly reliable. You just need to select the one that offers the extent of security you’re looking to apply to your gate.
Business Development @ Homeholds. Have a topic of interest? If so, Ben is the person you want to speak to.
