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I use a combination lock to secure the companionway hatch cover, an idea borrowed from this board. That way I don't have to carry a key or worry about losing the key.
However, I was unaware how easily combination locks can be opened.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avtX3xDaIWs

There's an old adage that says: "Locks only keep out honest people."

Phil M

Interesting, I bet this isn't limited to "combination" locks. Key locks in this form should be just as easy since they're exploiting the latching mechanism as opposed to the combination mechanism itself.
I would think most locks of this type using an angled latch thereby allowing the aluminum "tab" to deflect it and unlock the lock.

Look, if someone wants in, they're "in" on a typical Mac lasp (at least on the two I owned). All you really need is a crow bar!

When nestled in for the winter I remove all the electronics and valuables and post a sign on the companionway stating such for would be thieves hoping they find more inviting prey. Short of an active alarm this is the best I can do.

"Sub" Ed

A padlock version of using a credit card, but most door latchbolts have a secondary plunger ('deadlocking' latchbolt I think they call that type) to prevent such methods from working.

And yes, nothing a crowbar can't get past, but from the comments at the end of the video, it seems to be aimed primarily at kids.

A problem I had in using a combination lock on the companionway is that area was pretty dark until I got inside to turn on lights - - - and it was hard for me to see the numbers on the lock - - - so I kept a little flashlight in the cockpit just for that purpose.

Rick

I didn't build a lot of them, but they are, a small aspect of my industry.. Electronic Security.. from Fred Flintstones To George Jetson...
But anything One Man can build ? Another man can render useless...Look for a lock that the capture notch that is deeper into the body...
This issue been discussed here , recently , a lot. Put a BIG Screw Driver ( i have a beauty 18" long square shank would slip inside that hasp ring right along with your lock no problem), Crow Bar, Jack Handle through the hasp and turn...Your in.

OMG! Hasp, well lubricated with Mayo-naise!

I know what's gonna follow this

Google "bumping locks". It'll scare you. Basically with a simple tool any 9yo can open any 5-pin or less keyed lock as well.

As the old adage says, locks only keep honest people honest.

I looked , pretty scary huh? But we live in a Victorian.. Very Old Decorative Doors with Large Glass Panels and lots of ground level window's.. Had 3 big dogs now we have 1- 30 lb dog.. She tells "Dad" if someone or something... is on her land.. Honest people stay out..Crooks ? At this age I would help them load the van! Previously a MMA's Instructor .. YET.... nothing in here, but US is worth fighting for..

mastreb wrote:Google "bumping locks". It'll scare you. Basically with a simple tool any 9yo can open any 5-pin or less keyed lock as well.

As the old adage says, locks only keep honest people honest.

If you are that clever and want in, PLEASE use the trick to get in and spare my hatch (hasp, lasp whatever) the crowbar.

Our boats are pretty easy to get into if one really wants to. Steal my stuff and leave my boat with little damage please.

RussMT wrote:If you are that clever and want in, PLEASE use the trick to get in and spare my hatch (hasp, lasp whatever) the crowbar.

Our boats are pretty easy to get into if one really wants to. Steal my stuff and leave my boat with little damage please.

Yeah. I agree with that.

tkanzler wrote:A padlock version of using a credit card, but most door latchbolts have a secondary plunger ('deadlocking' latchbolt I think they call that type) to prevent such methods from working.

And yes, nothing a crowbar can't get past, but from the comments at the end of the video, it seems to be aimed primarily at kids.

90% of the problems/thefts at our yacht club are kids though...

The way I see it....if someone wants into your boat they are going to get in there whether its locked or not. The Lock is more of a deterrent than a true security measure.

Ben

When I first moved to Texas, I live in a less than desirable neighborhood. Had no trouble at first since I moved there with a six foot boa constrictor who was free to roam the house. Scared the neighbors to even drive by.

Was burglarized shortly after selling the snake - locks on the front door were no deterance (and moved soon after).

If you need a padlock, there are some out with real close tolerances on the shackle to body. Otherwise, you can epoxy a collar (wire or such wrapped around the shackle) to make using the coke can shim difficult. This is a common way people break into lockers at the gym (and why my gym lock has a real tight clearance at the shackle).

I just have a clasp on my Mac 26D. It's in the drive way though not a slip.
But: The outboard is locked to the transom and the trailer hitch is locked closed. (so the boat and trailer don't disappear together) I'm not too concerned about anyone going in, there's nothing to take inside. I do plan to get a combination lock in the future though.

I kind of like the idea of a boat snake