Best Security Screws Best Security Screws Logo

Compare Security Fasteners

When choosing the right security fastener, not all options offer the same level of protection, reliability, or installation control. In this comparison, we break down two standout products side-by-side to help you evaluate their strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. Whether you’re securing high-value infrastructure or simply looking to deter casual tampering, understanding how these fasteners differ can make all the difference.

Security Fastener
Our Thoughts
Good For
Not Good For
Driver Availability
Maximum Torque (MFG Claim)
Minimum Quantity
Average Break-In Time
Cost Per Fastener
Samples Available
Keyway Type
Tool Control
Head Style Options
Material Options
Reusability
Tamper Resistance
Tool Compatibility
Installation Method
Visual Deterrence Level
Removal Risk if Tool Leaks
Lead Time to Purchase
Where to Buy

Penta-Bolts 

Penta-Bolts

This fastener is widely available and lacks meaningful tool control or tamper resistance. While often marketed as a "security screw," it does not meet our standards for the security classification. It may deter casual tampering but offers very little protection against intentional removal.

Penta-Bolts
  • General Fastener Use
Penta-Bolts
  • Security Use
Penta-Bolts
Widely available; sold in stores and online. Penta-Bolts
Moderate; varies by size and material. Penta-Bolts
Low: Often available in small packs. Penta-Bolts
Low: Easily removed in minutes. Penta-Bolts
Low: Varies by supplier, size, and material. Penta-Bolts
Likely available from distributors. Penta-Bolts
Standard, not proprietary. Penta-Bolts
N/A: Bits widely available to public. Penta-Bolts
Button, flat, pan, socket; varies by supplier. Penta-Bolts
Steel, stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316), sometimes brass or zinc-plated—depends on supplier. Penta-Bolts
Reusable with matching bit; integrity depends on torque and material. Penta-Bolts
Low: Easily defeated with standard bits or modified tools. Penta-Bolts
Compatible with standard bits; widely available tools. Penta-Bolts
Manual or power-driven with bit; standard installation process. Penta-Bolts
Low: Recognizable shape signals basic security, not highly deterrent. Penta-Bolts
N/A: Tool/Bit is widely available. Penta-Bolts
N/A: Commonly stocked item. Penta-Bolts

Available in stores.
Order online.

Purchase from Amazon

Penta-Bolts

Shear Bolts by Hafren Security Fasteners

Shear Bolts by Hafren Security Fasteners

The Shear Bolt uses a breakaway hex head that snaps off at a calibrated torque, leaving behind a smooth, ungrippable surface. It's a simple and effective design for creating permanent installations. Once installed, removal typically requires drilling or destructive force. However, the initial install is limited by access to torque tools, and over-tightening or under-tightening can reduce performance.

Shear Bolts
  • Single-Use Security
  • Utility Fixtures and Covers
  • Clean, Tool-Less Finish
Shear Bolts
  • Applications Requiring Reuse
  • Precise Torque-Sensitive Installs
Shear Bolts
None: One-way design, shears after installation. Shear Bolts
14-25nm Shear Bolts
Not specified; likely moderate (e.g., 100 pieces). Shear Bolts
Extremely high: Shears, resists all removal attempts. Shear Bolts
$2.67 - $32.91 Shear Bolts
Not specified; likely available for bulk orders. Shear Bolts
One-way shear design. Shear Bolts
None: Shears, no removal tools. Shear Bolts
Cylindrical (bolt head). Shear Bolts
Steel, stainless steel; A2, A4 options. Shear Bolts
Non-reusable; permanent installation. Shear Bolts
Extremely high: Shear design prevents removal. Shear Bolts
No tools for removal; shear design. Shear Bolts
Manual or power-driven; shears after installation. Shear Bolts
High: Shear design signals permanence. Shear Bolts
None: No removal tools exist. Shear Bolts
Not specified; likely 1–4 weeks. Shear Bolts

Not Available in stores.
Order online.

Purchase from Accu

Shear Bolts

Interested in having your product reviewed?

Get Your Product Reviewed