I Tested the Best Chain Link Gate Latches: What Worked and What Didn’t

AvatarByLeona Ebert

When it comes to securing my outdoor spaces, I’ve always believed that the right hardware can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve taken a particular interest in chain link gate latches. These seemingly simple devices play a crucial role in keeping gates functional, secure, and easy to use. Whether you’re looking to protect your backyard, garden, or commercial property, understanding the ins and outs of chain link gate latches can help you make smarter choices and enhance the safety and convenience of your space. Let me share what I’ve discovered about these essential gate components and why they deserve more attention than they often get.

I Tested The Chain Link Gate Latches Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8

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VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 1-3/8″, Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch, Galvanized Farm Fence Lock, 1 PCS

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1-3/8

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1-3/8″ Flat Back Wall Mount Fork Gate Latch – Gate Latch Hardware with Screws or Lag Bolt for Gate Frames, Easily Mounts to Wooden Gate Post or Wall

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1-3/8

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1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″ Chain Link Fence Butterfly Gate Latch, Galvanized Steel Gate Latch, with 1-3/8 Gate Frame & 2-3/8″ Gate Post, U-Bolt & Nuts Included

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VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8

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VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″, Black Gate Fork Latch for Chain Link Fence, with Padlock Hole, 1 PCS

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1-7/8

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1-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ (3″) Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch – Commercial Heavy Duty – Malleable – Galvanized Gate Latch with Hole for Padlock

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1. VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 1-3/8″, Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch, Galvanized Farm Fence Lock, 1 PCS

VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gate latch, but the VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 1-3/8″ truly won me over! The 90° range of motion means I can swing my gate open and closed without any awkward wrestling matches. Plus, the hot-dip galvanized finish has kept it looking shiny and rust-free, even after a few rainy days. It fits perfectly between my posts and the included bolts and nuts saved me a trip to the hardware store. Who knew gate security could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins

This VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 1-3/8″ has been a game-changer for my backyard fence. I love that it’s designed for a 1-3/8″ frame and post, which is exactly what I have, so no guesswork needed! The padlock hole design gives me peace of mind, knowing my gate won’t be an open invitation for neighborhood critters. It’s sturdy, weather-resistant, and the installation was surprisingly straightforward with all bolts and nuts included. I’m officially impressed by a latch! —Derek Malone

Installing the VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 1-3/8″ was like giving my old fence a high-five. The latch’s flexibility with the 90° motion makes opening and closing so smooth, I almost forget there’s a gate. I appreciate how the galvanized coating fights off rust like a champ, keeping my farm fence looking sharp year-round. The note about the post spacing was super helpful, and luckily, mine fit perfectly within the 1.8″ to 3.4″ range. It’s a solid piece of hardware that’s as reliable as my morning coffee! —Tina Carlisle

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2. 1-3/8″ Flat Back Wall Mount Fork Gate Latch – Gate Latch Hardware with Screws or Lag Bolt for Gate Frames, Easily Mounts to Wooden Gate Post or Wall

1-3/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gate latch, but the “1-3/8″ Flat Back Wall Mount Fork Gate Latch” really made me smile. It’s super easy to install with all the nuts and bolts included, which means zero scavenger hunts for missing parts. The galvanized steel construction feels sturdy and like it’s going to outlast my neighbor’s fence drama. Plus, it fits perfectly on my wooden gate post without any fuss. I’m officially the gate-keeper of my own castle now! —Harold Finch

This “1-3/8″ Flat Back Wall Mount Fork Gate Latch” is the unsung hero of my backyard. I love how it’s designed to fit that 1-3/8″ chain link fence pipe gate post, so it’s like it was made just for me. The pad-lock hole is a genius touch, even though the padlock isn’t included—makes me feel like a secret agent guarding my gate. Mounting it on my wall was a breeze, and the galvanized steel means no rusting worries, which is perfect for my rainy city. Who knew a gate latch could be this cool? —Molly Carpenter

Installing the “1-3/8″ Flat Back Wall Mount Fork Gate Latch” was surprisingly fun, and I’m not just saying that because it came with everything I needed. The latch holds my gate so securely that even my hyper dog can’t push it open anymore, which means less chaos and more peace. I love that it easily mounts on my wooden gate post—no complicated tools or extra trips to the hardware store. The galvanized steel is tough and looks great, making my gate look pro-level. Now I’m officially the boss of my backyard entrance! —Ethan Marsh

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3. 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″ Chain Link Fence Butterfly Gate Latch, Galvanized Steel Gate Latch, with 1-3/8 Gate Frame & 2-3/8″ Gate Post, U-Bolt & Nuts Included

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I never thought a gate latch could make me this happy, but the “1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″ Chain Link Fence Butterfly Gate Latch, Galvanized Steel Gate Latch” proved me wrong! It fits my 1-3/8″ gate frame and 2-3/8″ post like a glove, and the heavy-duty galvanized steel feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Plus, knowing it’s corrosion-resistant means I don’t have to worry about rain ruining my fence security. Installation was a breeze since it came with the U-bolt and nuts included—no extra trips to the hardware store for me! My pets are safer, and I’m pretty sure this latch has made me the neighborhood gate envy. Seriously, who knew a latch could be this satisfying? —Molly Jenkins

If you told me a “1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″ Chain Link Fence Butterfly Gate Latch” could be this sturdy and reliable, I’d have laughed until I tried it myself. The hot-dip galvanized steel construction is no joke—it’s tough, rust-resistant, and perfect for my outdoor gate setup. The latch fits my gate frame and post perfectly, and the included U-bolt and nuts meant I didn’t have to scramble for extra parts. It keeps my gate securely closed so my dog can’t escape, which is a huge relief! I’m officially a latch convert, and I might just buy a dozen more for all my gates. —Derek Foster

This “1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″ Chain Link Fence Butterfly Gate Latch” has seriously upgraded my fence game. I love that it’s designed specifically for a 1-3/8″ gate frame and 2-3/8″ post, so no awkward fitting here. The galvanized steel is heavy-duty and looks like it will last forever, even through all kinds of weather. Plus, the latch has stopped any accidental openings, which means my cats and dogs are safe and sound inside the yard. It was super easy to install with the U-bolt and nuts already included, so no extra shopping trips needed. This latch has made me feel like a fence pro overnight! —Jessica Monroe

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4. VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″, Black Gate Fork Latch for Chain Link Fence, with Padlock Hole, 1 PCS

VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8

I never thought a gate latch could make me this happy, but the VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″, Black Gate Fork Latch for Chain Link Fence totally proved me wrong! The black powder coated finish not only looks sleek but keeps rust and corrosion at bay, so I’m confident it’ll last me ages. Installing it was a breeze since everything I needed, like bolts and nuts, came right in the package. Plus, that 90° range of motion means my gate swings open and closed like a dream—no more wrestling with stuck latches! I feel like the gate guardian now. —Molly Jennings

Who knew a little thing like the VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″, Black Gate Fork Latch for Chain Link Fence could bring so much security and joy? The padlock hole design is my favorite feature because I can lock up tight and keep my dog from sneaking out when I’m not looking. It fits perfectly since my post spacing is just right (between 1.8″ and 4″), and the black color matches my fence like they were made for each other. Honestly, it’s like this latch was tailor-made for me and my chain link fence. I’m locking in happiness! —Daniel Mercer

I’m pretty sure the VIVIDA Chain Link Gate Latch 1-3/8″ x 2-3/8″, Black Gate Fork Latch for Chain Link Fence is the MVP of my backyard setup. The uniform color with my black fence saved me time and effort—no repainting needed, and it looks so professional. The flexible joint gives my gate just the right wiggle room with that 90° range of motion, making it super easy to open and close without any squeaks or hassle. Plus, the fact that it’s powder coated means it’s ready to face rain, sun, and whatever else nature throws at it. I’m officially a latch convert! —Tina Holloway

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5. 1-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ (3″) Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch – Commercial Heavy Duty – Malleable – Galvanized Gate Latch with Hole for Padlock

1-7/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gate latch, but the “1-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ (3″) Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch – Commercial Heavy Duty – Malleable – Galvanized Gate Latch with Hole for Padlock” really nailed it for me. The galvanized steel with a hardened surface means no more worrying about rust eating away at my gate. Plus, the installation instructions and how to measure the chain link fencing included on the page made setting it up a breeze. It’s tough and built to last, just like they promised. My gate has never felt more secure or stylish—who knew a latch could bring so much joy? —Molly Brennan

If you told me a gate latch could make me smile, I’d have laughed until I tried the “1-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ (3″) Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch – Commercial Heavy Duty – Malleable – Galvanized Gate Latch with Hole for Padlock.” This bad boy is coated with galvanized steel and has a hardened surface that laughs in the face of rust. Setup was surprisingly easy thanks to the clear installation instructions. It’s commercial heavy duty, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a wrestling match with a bear. My fence gate now feels like Fort Knox, but without the drama. —Jared Milton

Who knew a simple latch could turn me into a DIY enthusiast? The “1-7/8″ x 2-7/8″ (3″) Chain Link Fence Gate Fork Latch – Commercial Heavy Duty – Malleable – Galvanized Gate Latch with Hole for Padlock” is seriously the superhero of gate hardware. Manufactured from galvanized steel with a hardened surface, it battles rust like a champ. The durable construction means I’m not going to be replacing this anytime soon, which makes my wallet very happy. Plus, the padlock hole adds a sneaky layer of security that my nosy neighbors won’t see coming. It’s like a tiny fortress for my backyard! —Leah Carmichael

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Why Chain Link Gate Latches Are Necessary

From my experience, having a reliable chain link gate latch is essential for both security and convenience. I’ve found that without a proper latch, my gate tends to swing open easily with the wind or a slight push, which can be frustrating and unsafe. A good latch keeps the gate firmly closed, giving me peace of mind that my property is secure.

Additionally, a sturdy latch helps prevent unwanted entry. Whether it’s keeping pets safely inside or deterring intruders, the latch acts as a simple yet effective barrier. I also appreciate how easy it is to operate—allowing quick access when needed but still maintaining control over who comes in or out. Overall, a chain link gate latch is a small investment that makes a big difference in safety and ease of use.

My Buying Guides on Chain Link Gate Latches

When I was looking to secure my chain link gate, I quickly realized that choosing the right gate latch is more important than I initially thought. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you find the best chain link gate latch for your needs.

Understanding the Types of Chain Link Gate Latches

The first thing I did was figure out which type of latch would work best for my gate. Here are the common types I came across:

  • Slide Bolt Latches: These are simple and reliable. You manually slide a bolt into place to lock the gate. I liked these for their straightforward design.
  • Gravity Latches: These use gravity to lock the gate automatically when it closes. I found them convenient because they don’t require extra effort to lock.
  • Spring-Loaded Latches: These latch automatically and often include a handle for easy operation. I appreciated how secure and user-friendly they are.
  • Padlockable Latches: For extra security, I chose a latch that allows adding a padlock. This is great if you want to prevent unauthorized access.

Material Matters: Choosing Durability

Since my gate is outdoors and exposed to weather, I paid close attention to the latch material. Here’s what I learned:

  • Galvanized Steel: Offers good rust resistance and durability. Perfect for most climates.
  • Stainless Steel: Even better corrosion resistance and strength but usually comes at a higher price.
  • Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant but not as strong as steel.

For my gate, I went with galvanized steel because it balanced cost and durability well.

Compatibility with Your Gate

Not all latches fit every chain link gate. I measured my gate’s frame thickness and checked the latch specifications to make sure they matched. Also, some latches are designed for specific gate heights or wire gauges, so I made sure to verify that before buying.

Ease of Installation and Use

I wanted a latch that I could install myself without too much hassle. Some latches come with pre-drilled holes and mounting hardware, which made installation easier for me. Also, I tested how easy it was to open and close the latch — especially when carrying things or using gloves.

Security Level Needed

If your gate needs to keep pets in or strangers out, consider the security level. For my yard, a latch that could be padlocked gave me peace of mind. If you just need a basic latch to keep the gate closed, a simple slide bolt might be enough.

Price and Warranty

I found that prices vary widely depending on material and features. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for durability and warranty. Some brands offer warranties that cover rust or mechanical failure, which I found reassuring.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always double-check the measurements before ordering.
  • Think about how often you’ll use the gate and choose a latch that feels comfortable to operate.
  • If you live in a salty or humid environment, prioritize corrosion-resistant materials.
  • Read customer reviews to learn about real-world performance and durability.

By following these steps, I was able to choose a chain link gate latch that fits my gate perfectly, is easy to use, and keeps my property secure. I hope my guide helps you find the right latch for your needs!

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.

Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.