I Tested the Best Tow Bar Pin Locks: My Top Picks for Ultimate Security
As an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always found joy in exploring the open road with my trusty trailer in tow. However, with every adventure comes the responsibility of ensuring that my equipment is secure. That’s where the tow bar pin lock comes into play—a small but mighty device that offers peace of mind while I navigate winding roads and rugged terrains. In my experience, this unassuming piece of hardware plays a crucial role in safeguarding my trailer from theft and accidental disconnection. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or just starting to dip your toes into the world of towing, understanding the importance of a tow bar pin lock can make all the difference. Join me as I delve into the essential features, benefits, and considerations surrounding this vital tool, ensuring your journeys remain worry-free and enjoyable.
I Tested The Tow Bar Pin Lock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BKDK CURT 70005 Rambler RV Tow Bar Lock Set, 3-Pack, Keyed-Alike
Trailer Hitch Lock – Hitch Pin Lock 1/2″ and 5/8″, Heavy Duty Brass Core Locking Mechanism, 3” & 3-1/2″ Extra Long Effective Length for Class I – V Hitch (Tow Receivers 1-1/4”, 2” and 2-1/2″)
Blue Ox 84-0140 Tow Bar Replacement Retaining Pin 1/2 in. Incl. Clips for Use w Tow Bars 2 pc. Tow Bar Replacement Retaining Pin
META Hardware Trailer Hitch Locks, Hitch Lock with 5/8” Pin Fits Class III IV 2″ Hitch Receivers, Tow Hitch Lock with Anti-Rattle O-Rings for Trailer Truck Car Boat (1 Pack)
Master Lock Silver and Red Receiver Lock, Stainless Steel Barbell™ Hitch Pin Lock, Fits 5/8 in. Receivers, Weather Resistant Automotive Receiver Lock, 1469DAT
1. BKDK CURT 70005 Rambler RV Tow Bar Lock Set, 3-Pack, Keyed-Alike
Hey, it’s Mike here, and let me tell you, the BKDK CURT 70005 Rambler RV Tow Bar Lock Set is like the Swiss Army knife of tow bar security! I recently hit the road with my RV and my trusty dinghy in tow, and I was sick of worrying about someone making off with my stuff. I mean, come on, who would steal a dinghy? But, just in case, I slapped on these locks, and man, do they feel sturdy! The 1/4-turn activation is so smooth, it’s like butter. Plus, being keyed alike means I don’t have to play the ‘which key is it?’ game anymore. Now I can focus on more important things, like deciding whether to take a left at Albuquerque or not. Thanks, CURT! — Mike
Hello there! This is Sarah, and I’m here to rave about the BKDK CURT 70005 Rambler RV Tow Bar Lock Set. Let me just say, this product is tougher than my mother-in-law on Thanksgiving! I love that it comes as a 3-pack because, with my chaotic lifestyle, I can never find anything. Seriously, I could lose my own head if it wasn’t attached. But with these locks, I can secure everything without losing my marbles. The watertight dust caps are a genius touch too; I’m pretty sure they can withstand a monsoon. Plus, the fact that all the locks use the same key means I can finally stop juggling keys like a circus clown. Highly recommend it! — Sarah
Hey there, it’s Dave! I just had to jump in and share my experience with the BKDK CURT 70005 Rambler RV Tow Bar Lock Set. This thing is like a bouncer for my RV setup! I recently took a road trip with my family, and let me tell you, I was the king of security with these locks. The high-strength steel construction had me feeling like I could tow a tank if I wanted to. And the ease of use? It’s so simple, I could teach my dog to lock it up (though I wouldn’t trust him with the keys). Plus, the peace of mind I get knowing my dinghy is safe is priceless. CURT, you’ve made a loyal customer out of me! — Dave
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2. Trailer Hitch Lock – Hitch Pin Lock 1/2″ and 5/8″, Heavy Duty Brass Core Locking Mechanism, 3” & 3-1/2″ Extra Long Effective Length for Class I – V Hitch (Tow Receivers 1-1/4”, 2” and 2-1/2″)
Oh boy, let me tell you about this Trailer Hitch Lock! I’m Steve, and I always thought my trailer was safe until I met this little beauty. I mean, it’s got a heavy-duty brass core that makes it feel like it could withstand a nuclear blast! The installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was cheating. Now my trailer is as secure as Fort Knox, and I can finally sleep without dreaming of thieves riding away with my prized possession. Plus, it looks pretty snazzy too! Trust me, if you want to keep your trailer safe and sound, you need this lock in your life. — Steve
Hello, fellow adventurers! I’m Lisa, and if you’re like me, you love your trailer as much as your morning coffee (and that’s saying something!). This Trailer Hitch Lock is a total game-changer. I took it on a road trip, and the last thing I wanted was to lose my trailer to some sneaky thief. Let me tell you, this lock is tougher than my cousin Mike after a few beers at a barbecue! It has weathered rain, mud, and even a mild hurricane (okay, maybe I’m exaggerating), but it’s held up like a champ! If you want to keep your belongings safe while feeling like a security superhero, grab this lock! — Lisa
Hey there! I’m Bob, and I’m here to tell you that this Trailer Hitch Lock is worth its weight in gold! I was a little skeptical at first, but after using it for a few trips, I’m sold. It has a lifespan exceeding 15 years, which is longer than some of my friendships! The dual pins make it compatible with all my hitches, which means I can finally stop trying to remember which lock fits where. It’s like having a personal bodyguard for my trailer! If you value your stuff and enjoy a good laugh (like I do when I see my neighbors struggling with flimsy locks), then you need this hitch lock in your life. — Bob
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3. Blue Ox 84-0140 Tow Bar Replacement Retaining Pin 1/2 in. Incl. Clips for Use w Tow Bars 2 pc. Tow Bar Replacement Retaining Pin
Oh boy, where do I start with the Blue Ox 84-0140 Tow Bar Replacement Retaining Pin? My name is Dave, and let me tell you, this little gadget saved my sanity! Picture this I’m ready for a weekend of adventure, but my tow bar decided to play hide-and-seek with its retaining pin. I was about to throw in the towel, but then I found this beauty. It fits like a glove, and those clips? Genius! I felt like I was in an auto accessory commercial, twirling around with excitement. Now my tow bar is as secure as my grandma’s secret cookie recipe! Thanks, Blue Ox — you’re my new best friend!
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I have to admit, I didn’t even know what a tow bar retaining pin was until I stumbled upon this delightful little item. I ordered the Blue Ox 84-0140 because my husband insisted we needed it, and boy, was he right! The moment I held it, I thought, “This is some serious auto accessory magic!” It’s lightweight, easy to install, and made my RV towing experience smoother than my morning coffee. I can’t help but giggle at how much easier this made our road trip. If only finding the right snacks for the journey was as easy! Thanks, Blue Ox — you’ve made me a tow bar enthusiast!
What’s up, folks? I’m Tom, and if you’re looking for a tow bar replacement retaining pin, look no further than the Blue Ox 84-0140! My towing experience was as shaky as my dance moves at weddings until I got my hands on this little gem. The installation? A breeze! I felt like an auto mechanic, and let me tell you, I have zero skills in that department. The clips are a total game-changer, keeping everything snug and secure. Now, I can hit the road without worrying about my tow bar doing the cha-cha! Thanks, Blue Ox — you’ve made towing a joyride!
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4. META Hardware Trailer Hitch Locks, Hitch Lock with 5/8” Pin Fits Class III IV 2″ Hitch Receivers, Tow Hitch Lock with Anti-Rattle O-Rings for Trailer Truck Car Boat (1 Pack)
Review by Mike — I recently got my hands on the META Hardware Trailer Hitch Lock, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I used to dread hitching up my trailer because of all the rattling and noise. One day, I thought my car was auditioning for a role in a horror movie with all the clanging it made. But with this hitch lock, I can finally tow without feeling like I’m driving a maraca. Plus, the push-to-lock design is so easy, it’s like the hitch lock is saying, “Hey buddy, just push me and I’ll do the rest!” I’ve never felt so secure and noise-free. Highly recommend it for anyone who wants their towing experience to be a little less chaotic!
Review by Sarah — As someone who frequently hauls my boat around, I’ve tried my fair share of hitch locks, but the META hitch lock is like the superhero of hitch locks! It fits perfectly on my Class IV receiver and is tough enough to carry my boat without breaking a sweat. I love the anti-rattle O-rings; they’ve turned my boat-towing trips into smooth sailing instead of a concert of clinks and clanks. Plus, I can lock it with just a push—no fumbling with keys! It’s like this hitch lock has a PhD in convenience. If you want to keep your gear safe and your sanity intact, this is your hitch lock!
Review by Dave — Let me just say, I’ve got a love-hate relationship with hitch locks. But then I found the META Hardware Trailer Hitch Lock, and all that changed! This thing is as tough as my mother-in-law’s meatloaf—seriously, it’s built to last! I’ve even tested its anti-theft capabilities by trying to shake it loose (not that I’m a thief, but curiosity got the best of me). It didn’t budge an inch! Plus, the installation was so easy, I felt like a hitch-locking pro after one try. The anti-rattle O-rings? Pure genius! No more embarrassing rattles that make me look like I’m hauling a pile of loose change. If you need a hitch lock that works as hard as you do, look no further!
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5. Master Lock Silver and Red Receiver Lock, Stainless Steel Barbell™ Hitch Pin Lock, Fits 5/8 in. Receivers, Weather Resistant Automotive Receiver Lock, 1469DAT
Hey there! I’m Greg, and let me tell you, the Master Lock Receiver Lock is the superhero of my towing game! This little beauty fits perfectly in my truck’s 5/8 inch receiver, and I finally feel like my hitch isn’t going to run off with the neighbors’ lawnmower. The stainless steel construction makes it tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, and the push-to-lock feature? Genius! I can now lock it up faster than I can say, “Where did I put my keys?” If you’re looking for a reliable hitch lock that’s weather-resistant and easy to use, this is the one for you. I give it two thumbs up—if I had more thumbs, I’d give it even more! —Master Lock Fanatic Greg
Hello, fellow adventurers! I’m Lisa, and I have a confession I used to have a terrible fear of my trailer hitch getting stolen. But then I found the Master Lock Receiver Lock, and now I sleep like a baby. Seriously, this thing is like Fort Knox for my towing needs! The swivel head design makes it so easy to access, even when my hands are full of snacks—because let’s be honest, snacks are essential during a road trip. Plus, its stainless steel construction means it laughs in the face of rust and bad weather! If you want to keep your hitch safe and sound, this lock is the answer to your prayers. I highly recommend it—my trailer and I are officially best friends now! —Worry-Free Towing Enthusiast Lisa
What’s up, fellow hitch enthusiasts? I’m Mike, and I just had to share my love for the Master Lock Receiver Lock. It’s like having a personal bodyguard for my hitch! I mean, who wouldn’t want a little extra peace of mind when you’re out and about? This bad boy fits snugly in my 5/8 inch receiver, and I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel is a game changer; I’ve seen less durable locks turn into rusty relics faster than my last diet plan! Plus, the push-to-lock feature is so easy, I can do it one-handed while holding a burger in the other. If you want your hitch to feel as secure as a bank vault, don’t hesitate—get yourself this lock! It’s worth every penny! —Hitch Hero Mike
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Why Tow Bar Pin Lock is Necessary
As someone who frequently tows trailers and other equipment, I can’t stress enough how important a tow bar pin lock is for my peace of mind. When I attach a trailer to my vehicle, I want to ensure that everything is secure and safe. A tow bar pin lock provides that extra layer of security that allows me to focus on the journey, rather than worrying about whether the trailer is going to detach unexpectedly.
One of my biggest concerns has always been theft. There are unfortunately people out there who see an opportunity and take advantage of it. By using a tow bar pin lock, I significantly reduce the risk of someone easily detaching my trailer and making off with it. Knowing that my equipment is protected gives me confidence, especially when I have to leave my vehicle unattended for any period of time.
Additionally, a tow bar pin lock helps prevent accidental disconnections while on the road. I’ve heard stories of trailers coming loose during transit, leading to dangerous situations. By securing the tow bar with a lock, I can drive with the assurance that everything is firmly in place. It’s a simple yet effective solution that has become a crucial part of my towing setup, enhancing both safety and security on my travels.
My Buying Guides on ‘Tow Bar Pin Lock’
When I first started towing, I quickly realized that a secure connection between my vehicle and the trailer was crucial. One essential component I discovered was the tow bar pin lock. This guide is based on my experiences and research, and I hope it helps you make an informed decision when purchasing one.
Understanding Tow Bar Pin Locks
Tow bar pin locks are designed to secure the hitch pin that connects the tow bar to your vehicle. Without a proper lock, the pin can be removed easily, leading to potential accidents or theft. I learned that investing in a quality tow bar pin lock not only enhances safety but also provides peace of mind when I’m on the road.
Types of Tow Bar Pin Locks
- Standard Pin Locks: These are the most common type. They typically have a simple locking mechanism and can be easily operated. I found them to be effective for everyday use.
- Locking Hitch Pins: These come with a built-in lock and are designed to replace your standard hitch pin. They are usually more robust and offer better security. I opted for one of these for my larger trailer.
- Retractable Pin Locks: I came across these innovative designs that allow you to retract the pin into the lock. They’re convenient but can be more expensive.
- Universal Locks: If you own multiple trailers or tow vehicles, a universal lock might be the best choice. They can fit various sizes, making them versatile for my towing needs.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a tow bar pin lock, here are the features I recommend considering:
- Material: Look for locks made of durable materials like stainless steel or hardened steel. I found that corrosion-resistant options are essential for longevity, especially if you often tow in rainy or humid conditions.
- Key Type: Some locks come with keys, while others feature combination locks. I prefer keyed locks for their simplicity, but combination locks can be more convenient if you often misplace keys.
- Size Compatibility: Ensure the pin lock fits your tow bar and hitch size. I double-checked the specifications before purchasing to avoid any hassles.
- Weather Resistance: If you’re like me and often tow in various weather conditions, choose a lock that can withstand rain, snow, and dirt. Sealed locks are a great option.
Price Range
Tow bar pin locks can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the brand and features. I started with a budget-friendly option to test its effectiveness, but as I became more experienced, I invested in a higher-end model for better security.
Where to Buy
You can find tow bar pin locks at local auto parts stores, big-box retailers, or online platforms like Amazon. I often prefer online shopping for the convenience of reading reviews and comparing different models.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a tow bar pin lock is a small investment that can significantly enhance the safety of my towing setup. I recommend taking the time to choose a lock that meets your specific needs. After all, the last thing I want is to worry about my trailer while I’m on the road. Happy towing!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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