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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

One-Way 

One-Way

This classic one-way design installs with a standard flathead but resists removal by camming out in reverse. It's low-cost, widely available, and simple to install—but also easy to defeat with pliers, extractor tools, or modified drivers. While it provides basic deterrence, it’s not suitable where determined tampering is a concern.

One-Way
  • Low-Cost Deterrence
  • Indoor Fixtures
  • Short-Term Security
One-Way
  • High-Security Installations
  • Outdoor or Public Exposure
  • Resistance to Basic Tools
One-Way
Widely available: One-way removal tools accessible to public. One-Way
~85 in/lbs for 1/4-20x1 One-Way
Not specified; likely low (e.g., 100 pieces). One-Way
Moderate: Removal possible with specialized tools. One-Way
As low as $0.04 One-Way
Not Likely. One-Way
One-way slotted drive. One-Way
Minimal: Removal tools available to public. One-Way
Button. One-Way
Steel, stainless steel, brass. One-Way
Non-reusable; one-way design. One-Way
Moderate: One-way design resists casual tampering but not specialized tools. One-Way
Compatible with one-way removal tools. One-Way
Manual; one-way installation. One-Way
Moderate: One-way drive signals tamper resistance. One-Way
High: Removal tools increase risk. One-Way
Not specified; Stock items ship quickly. One-Way

Available in stores.
Order online.

Purchase from Amazon

One-Way

Torx-Pin 

Torx-Pin

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.

Torx-Pin
  • General Fastener Use
Torx-Pin
  • Security Use
Torx-Pin
Widely available; sold in stores and online. Torx-Pin
~105 in/lbs for 1/4-20x1 Torx-Pin
Low: Often available in small packs. Torx-Pin
Low: Easily removed in minutes. Torx-Pin
Low: Varies by supplier, size, and material. Torx-Pin
Likely available from distributors. Torx-Pin
Standard, not proprietary. Torx-Pin
N/A: Bits widely available to public. Torx-Pin
Button, flat, pan, socket; varies by supplier. Torx-Pin
Steel, stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316), sometimes brass or zinc-plated—depends on supplier. Torx-Pin
Reusable with matching bit; integrity depends on torque and material. Torx-Pin
Low: Easily defeated with standard bits or modified tools. Torx-Pin
Compatible with standard bits; widely available tools. Torx-Pin
Manual or power-driven with bit; standard installation process. Torx-Pin
Low: Recognizable shape signals basic security, not highly deterrent. Torx-Pin
N/A: Tool/Bit is widely available. Torx-Pin
N/A: Commonly stocked item. Torx-Pin

Available in stores.
Order online.

Purchase from Amazon

Torx-Pin

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