Drop Rods (often referred to as Drop Bolts) are designed as a simple, alternative method to securing your gate by slotting through a few brackets attached to your gate and fitting into a small hole into the ground. Most commonly used for dumpsters, ranch gates, and other low-security commercial or industrial areas, drop rods are ideal for low maintenance gate security. Available in multiple finishes, most drop rods come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate for just about anywhere you want them to. However, not all drop rods are built equal, some include a few great features that might make you take pause while looking through them. Let's take a look at the four kinds of drop rods we offer at Gate Security Hardware.
Standard Drop Rods
Standard Drop rods are just that, Standard. No need to worry about a set of keys for locking, power for usability, some don't even come with brackets and need to be purchased separately. Generally, Standard drop rods are used for more remote locations, low-security areas, or budget friendly installations as they only come with the rod and maybe a few installation brackets. Available in sizes from 24 - 48" and in Black, Copper, Silver, or White, our drop rods are perfect for any installation.
Shop Standard Drop Rods
Locking Drop Rods
Functionally similar to standard drop rods, Locking Drop Rods are either pad lockable or key lockable depending on the model you choose. Some lockable drop rods (pad lockable) look identical to standard drop rods with the key difference of having a few holes to insert a pad lock of your choice, giving you as much security as you choose for your gate. Other drop rods (key lockable) typically include key-locking brackets that install right onto your gate or dumpster. These hold the primary rod in place with the simple turn of a key, keeping your gate secure without any additional hardware. We offer our locking drop rods in Black, Bronze, Silver, or White at 18 - 48" heights!
Shop Lockable Drop Rods
Motorized Drop Rods
Motorized Drop Bolts are a modern and convenient way to upgrade your gate safety. These motorized drop rods automatically raise and lower themselves using motion detection to know if someone is coming to open the gate or dumpster. Key-lockable and openable in case of emergency, motorized drop bolts are ideal for a modern upgrade to commercial or residential gates in need of some added security. Offered in silver or black.
Shop Motorized Drop Rods
Auto-Locking Drop Rods
Finally, our most subtle and modern drop rod, these Auto-Locking Drop Rods function identically to the motorized rods with one key difference: They are installed internally. Inserting directly inside of your gate post, these drop rods are nearly completely shielded from the environment, ensuring that they'll operate in more extreme conditions and are harder to detect from vandals. These are ideal for more secure facilities still looking to use a drop rod design over a simple lock. Offered in Green, Brown, Black, or Silver finishes and includes a few post plugs for a seamless installation.
Shop Auto-Locking Drop Rods
Drop Rod Quick Comparison Chart
| Standard Drop Rods | Locking Drop Rods | Motorized Drop Rods | Auto-Locking Drop Rods | |
| Maximum Height: | 24 - 48" | 18" - 48" | 24" | 24" |
| Available Colors: | Black, Copper, Silver, or White | Black, Bronze, Silver, or White | Black, Silver | Green, Brown, Black, or Silver |
| Locking Capability: | Non-Locking | Key or Pad Lockable | Key Lockable | Automatic or Key Lockable |
| Installation: | Bolt or Weld On | Bolt or Weld On | Quick-Fit Bolts | Internal Post Installation |
