Posted by Jerry Long

This week I take a look at the Master Lock Python Cables. 

See the general note about dv’s Gear Reviews.

Product:  Master Lock Python Cables

The 5/16 inch camouflage Master Lock Python Cable.

Overall Rating:  ***+ (3.5 stars of 5)

Specifications (from Master Lock website):

  • -Cut resistant 6 foot x 5/16 inch diameter vinyl coated cable, camouflage finish, part number 8418KADCAMO-TMB

            -and-

  • -Cut resistant 6 foot x 3/16 inch diameter vinyl coated cable, black finish, part number 8417D
  • -Durable ABS bumpers
  • -Pick resistant reliable pin tumbler locking mechanism
  • -Easy to use Velcro strap holds excess cable in place

Cost:  *** (3 stars of 5).  Typically $14-20 for the 5/16″ cable and $6-10 for the 3/16″ cable.    

Performance:  **** (4 stars of 5).  The advantage of the Python Cables over chain or non-adjustable cables is that they cinch the item being locked up closely to the object they are being locked to, a tree for example.  This makes it harder to wrest the item away or tamper with it.  I bought the 5/16″ cables for use with the security boxes on game cameras and the 3/16″ cables for use on external batteries.  All four of the Pythons have been in the field for over a year and have been 100% reliable.  Those from Whitetail Supply are keyed alike which is very handy as opposed to those I purchased off-the-shelf from Menards.  The Velcro straps aren’t very helpful, easily sliding off and getting lost, but are of little consequence.

The 5/16 inch diameter Master Lock Python Cable secures a Scoutguard 550 camera in security box to the tree.

Manufacturer’s Customer Service:  Not used, not rated.   

Sources:  Whitetail Supply (unsure if they are still in business) Menard’s for the 3/16″.

General notes:  The HCO Scoutguard series of cameras, see dv’s Mostly Archery review here, are often marketed with Python Cables as they have a cable channel built in.  However, this combination is easily defeated by simply working the game camera up the tree’s natural taper until it is loose enough to pull the camera out.  I recommend the use of a security box.  See Hazard’s to Game Cameras for a simple, no-weld, low-cost version.

happy hunting, dv

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