Having sold Master Lock Padlocks for over 25 years, most keyed padlocks we sell are either going to be the popular "Laminated Steel" padlocks or the Master Lock Pro Series locks. But how do customers know which one to order, or which lock would work best for their application?

That's where the experience of The Lock Sourcec comes in! The Master Lock Laminated & Pro Series locks are both popular options, but they definitely serve different purposes and offer distinct features. We will now list the main differences between the Master Lock Laminated Keyed Padlocks and the Master Lock Pro Series Keyed Locks:

1. Build and Materials
   1. Laminated Steel Keyed Locks: These locks are made with laminated steel bodies, which consist of multiple layers of steel pressed together. The Laminate locks offer a good balance of security and affordability but aren’t as durable in extreme environments.
   2. Pro Series Keyed Locks: The Pro Series locks typically feature solid steel bodies with a shroud or protective covering, making them more robust and durable, especially for outdoor and industrial use. These locks are designed to resist cutting, prying and physical impact better than the laminated locks. 

2. Corrosion Resistance
   1. Laminate Steel Padlocks: These locks have limited corrosion resistance and are more suitable for indoor or light outdoor use when the environment isn’t too harsh.
   2. ProSeries Keyed Padlocks:The Pro Series locks are designed with additional weather-resistant features, including protective covers and seals, to keep out dirt, grime and moisture. They perform well in outdoor settings and harsh weather conditions. 

3. Shackle Protection
   1. Steel Laminated:The main padlocks that make up the Laminated Steel Series – Master Lock Nos. 1, No. 3, No. 5 and No. 7 locks, all have exposed shackles, which leaves them more vulnerable to bolt cutters and other cutting tools.
   2. Pro Series Locks: Many Pro Series locks, such as the 6271, have shrouded or hidden shackles, which make them harder to cut or pry open. This added shackle protection increases the security level of each lock, particularly for high-risk, high-value applications. 

4. Locking Mechanism and Security Feature
   1. Master Lock Laminated: These locks typically have a pin tumbler mechanism, which provides basic security but can be susceptible to certain types of attacks like picking or shimming. The laminated locks are best suited for low- to medium-security situations.
   2. Master Lock Pro: The Pro Series locks have more sophisticated locking mechanisms, including dual ball bearings for maximum pry resistance and pick-resistant cylinders. They offer higher security ratings and are designed for heavy-duty, high-security needs.
5. Application
   1. Laminated Locks: These locks are suitable for residential, light commercial and general purpose security, such as securing tool boxes, gates and sheds.
   2. Pro Series: With their advanced security features, Pro Series locks are ideal for commercial, industrial and institutional use such as securing factories, warehouses and other high-security environments. 

6. Price Point
   1. Master Lock Laminated: These are generally more budget-friendly and are popular for applications where extreme durability and high security are not essential.
   2. Master Lock Pro: Due to their high security features, enhanced materials and durability, Pro Series locks are usually around 10-15% more expensive but they also offer great value in demanding settings.

Let The Lock Source Help You Master Master Lock

In essence, if you need a keyed lock for a general purpose or low- to medium-security setting, the Master Lock Laminated Steel Locks should suffice. However, if your requirements demand high security, weather resistance and durability, especially for industrial or outdoor applications, the Master Lock Pro Series Keyed Locks are a superior choice.

The Lock Source, which has been selling Master Lock for over 25 years, offers both the Laminated Steel and Pro Series Locks on our website and our experienced staff can help you decide what lock would work best for you!