Are Master Locks Easy to Cut? What Affects Resistance

Some Master Lock padlocks are easier to cut than others because the brand makes locks with different shackle materials, thicknesses, and designs. A small lock with an exposed shackle may be vulnerable to an appropriately sized bolt cutter, while a thicker, hardened-steel or protected shackle can be much harder to attack.

The shackle is the loop that passes through the item you are securing, and its diameter and material affect how much force cutting it can require. Hardened steel generally resists cutting better than softer metals, while a shrouded design leaves less of the shackle exposed and can make it harder to position cutter jaws around it.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating what makes a lock harder to cut.

Longer bolt cutter handles generally provide more leverage, but handle length alone does not tell you whether a cutter can handle a particular lock; the jaw capacity and the hardness of the shackle matter, too. Our Heavy-Duty Bolt Cutter is offered in sizes from 8 to 24 inches, and you can read our bolt cutter sizing guide for locks, wire, and bolts for more help comparing sizes.

If you own the lock and have lost the key or combination, consider contacting the manufacturer or a locksmith before attempting to remove it, especially when the lock secures a gate, storage unit, or other property that could be damaged. If you choose to use a cutting tool on your own property, wear eye protection, keep your hands clear of the jaws, and avoid forcing a tool beyond its rated capacity.