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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

Lock-Out by Tanner

Lock-Out by Tanner

Lock-Out® screws offer a significant step up from standard tamper-resistant fasteners, featuring a patented oval center pin drive and high torque resistance. The smooth, button-head profile is also a good deterrent against gripping tools like locking pliers. However, the limited number of unique drive patterns may reduce their effectiveness in high-risk applications or against targeted threats.

Lock-Out
  • Shared or Commercial Use
  • Moderate Tamper Resistance
Lock-Out
  • High-Security Applications Demanding Unique Keyways
  • Installations Prone to Physical Tampering
  • DIY Projects or Immediate Availability Needs
Lock-Out
Custom One of a Kind Drives Available Lock-Out
Not specified; likely moderate, similar to standard Torx-Pin or Hex-Pin. Lock-Out
Not specified; likely low (e.g., 100 pieces) for stock items. Lock-Out
Not specified; likely high due to proprietary keyway. Lock-Out
Not specified. Lock-Out
Not specified; likely available for bulk orders. Lock-Out
Unique oval shape with fins and a center pin. Lock-Out
Controlled: limited the availability to only registered & licensed users. Lock-Out
Socket, Flat, Button Lock-Out
Stainless Steel Lock-Out
Reusable with matching bit; depends on drive type. Lock-Out
High: Complex keyway resists standard tools, but less data on advanced attacks. Lock-Out
Requires proprietary driver; incompatible with standard tools. Lock-Out
Manual or power-driven with proprietary driver. Lock-Out
High: Unique design signals advanced security. Lock-Out
Low: Controlled bit distribution reduces risk. Lock-Out
Not specified; likely stock items ship quickly. Lock-Out

Not Available in stores.
Order directly from the manufacturer.

Purchase from Tanner

Or call 1-877-316-1588
Lock-Out

The Intimidator by McGard

The Intimidator by McGard

The Intimidator offers solid tamper resistance with proprietary key patterns and regional key code tracking. However, the exposed head shape makes it easier to grip with common tools like locking pliers, which may be a concern in higher-risk environments. While the drive pattern is proprietary, it isn’t unique per customer. It’s still a practical choice for shared-access applications like municipal or utility use—but not the strongest option for physical tamper resistance.

The Intimidator
  • Municipal & Utility Use
  • Multi-User Access Points
The Intimidator
  • Unique, One-of-a-Kind Keyway Needs
  • Highest-Security Applications
  • DIY or Same-Day Projects
The Intimidator
Restricted: Proprietary drivers, distributed to authorized users. Control mechanisms unclear. The Intimidator
Not specified; likely high for automotive applications. The Intimidator
Not specified; likely higher for custom orders. The Intimidator
Not specified; likely high due to proprietary keyway. The Intimidator
Not specified. The Intimidator
Not specified; automotive focus suggests samples for bulk buyers. The Intimidator
Proprietary pattern (likely annular or complex geometry), not quantified in variations. The Intimidator
Controlled, but no details on serialization or verification. Likely distributor-based. The Intimidator
Primarily conical or cylindrical (lug nut/bolt styles). The Intimidator
Stainless steel, zinc-plated steel typical for automotive. The Intimidator
Reusable with proprietary driver; designed for repeated automotive use. The Intimidator
High: Complex keyway resists standard tools, but less data on advanced attacks. The Intimidator
Requires proprietary McGard driver; incompatible with standard tools. The Intimidator
Manual or power-driven with proprietary driver; standard for lug nuts/bolts. The Intimidator
Moderate: Recognizable as security fasteners, but automotive focus may reduce uniqueness. The Intimidator
Moderate: Proprietary but fewer variations; risk depends on driver distribution. The Intimidator
Not specified; likely 1–4 weeks for custom, faster for stock. The Intimidator

Not Available in stores.
Order directly from the manufacturer.

How to buy: spd@new.mcgard.com

Or call 1-888-888-9192
The Intimidator

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