Security marking tools

[ouch]

Having endured a recent visit from the local pond life, I now find my garage short a good quantity of power tools. Aside from the obvious security measures I'm now considering, I'm wondering what steps people take to mark their tools (both hand and power) for the purposes of security.

Ideally I'm after something that is durable enough to withstand everything from a swim in luke-warm engine oil to being used as a pry-bar fulcrum in an engine swap. Initially I was thinking of a simple pattern of dots made with a centre-punch, but I'm also aware that a more visible and professional looking solution will act as a deterrent as well.

What does everyone else do, if anything?

[TameScrapman]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3mm-36pc-Letter-Number-S...

I use a set like this and stamp my initials on. More to keep my tools out of workmates boxes than anything else.

[phillpot]

ouch said:

I'm also aware that a more visible and professional looking solution will act as a deterrent as well.

By the time they've got into your garage I don't think they'll turn around and leave empty handed because of a bit of engraving or stamping.
Theft at night, in the dark, would they even notice?

When "selling on" no doubt they'll have all the excuses, "selling for a mate"..."these were my Dads"... "took them against a debt"....etc. etc.

[one eyed mick]

No matter what you mark them with they will still pinch them ,even 'mates' the thing is more locks , security, alarm syren in garage /workshop even cctv wil not even stop them so carry on as if nothing is special and they might not bother

[elanfan]

Advertising externally that all tools within are security marked my have some effect. Otherwise think of security in layers.

Firstly try to stop them getting in: good locks, stout or metal plated doors. Bars on windows rawlbolted to surrounding brickwork.

Internally get a steel strongpoint for your valuable tools again with a high quality lock and bolt the cabinet down with rawlbolts.

Then fit an intruder alarm with a mains powered high volume sounder. Mount the sounder high where it cannot be got at or in a steel cage. With 140db of siren (equivalent of being 25m from a jet engine i.e. bloody loud - earsplittingly so) going off they won't have time or inclination to then have to attack your strongpoint.

Edited by elanfan on Saturday 22 February 21:22

[ouch]

Elanfan - believe me I'm looking long and hard at the security scenario, the point of access in this instance was a window that had been removed as it was externally beaded. It'll be replaced with fresh beading and a steel mesh will be fixed inside, which may or may not be connected to the mains

The punch set looks promising, though I'm not sure how long they'd stay good after marking an armload of Cr-V spanners. I'm aware that marking tools may not see their return, but if it helps identify them later and possibly exposes the culprit then I see that as a win for the forces of good.

[EnglishJo]

Hi, it must be horrible to have your tools robbed.

The experts will know how to use security markings but I would suggest for the future that you photograph all of your tools in case they need to be recognised later on.

Have you got those security lights that come on when you approach a door or a window? They may help deter a thief.

Crunchy gravel in the driveway or approach to garage. That black paint stuff that doesn't dry properly on the roof or fences?

Keep a look out on ebay and gum tree for your tools as they may appear on there.

Hope you get your tools back.