Stop Letterbox Key Fishing & Theft - 45° Opening Restrictor
Your letterbox is a security vulnerability. Burglars use letterbox fishing to steal car keys, house keys, wallets, and phones from hallway tables - accessing your property within seconds without breaking in. The Maguard Letterbox Security Cover by Magman is a physical barrier that restricts letterbox opening to 45 degrees, preventing hands, hooks, wires, and tools from reaching through your letterbox to steal belongings or manipulate door locks from inside.
Designed and manufactured in Leicester, UK since 2009, the Maguard fits internally behind standard UK letterboxes measuring 374mm (W) x 85mm (H) with 60mm internal depth clearance. All-steel construction with black powder-coated finish provides durable anti-tamper protection. Compatible with Magflap draught excluders and all standard gravity-flap letterboxes. Install in under 10 minutes with four screw fixings (appropriate fixings not included due to varying door thickness). Optional locking keyset available for additional security.
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Why Your Letterbox Needs the Maguard Security Cover
Letterbox Fishing is a Growing Threat
Police reports show letterbox fishing crimes have increased by 30% in the past three years. Burglars target homes with visible car keys near front doors, using hooks and reaching tools through letterboxes to steal keys without forced entry. Once they have your car keys, they can steal your vehicle from the driveway - insurance often won't cover "key theft" if keys were accessible from outside. The Maguard prevents this entirely by restricting letterbox opening to 45 degrees - hands and tools cannot reach through.
45-Degree Opening Restriction - Unique Security Feature
The Maguard restricts your letterbox flap to opening 45 degrees maximum. This allows post delivery to pass through normally (mail pushes the flap open and drops through) while preventing anyone from reaching an arm or long tool through the letterbox opening. Standard letterbox flaps open 90-180 degrees, giving burglars full internal access. The 45-degree restriction creates a physical barrier that stops fishing attempts while maintaining normal postal function.
Works With Magflap Draught Excluders
If you already have a Magflap MK3 Horizontal or Vertical letterbox draught excluder installed, the Maguard fits behind it to add security protection without removing your draught seal. The Maguard is specifically designed to work alongside Magflap's magnetic closure mechanism - both products can be fitted together for combined draught and security protection. Alternatively, the Maguard fits behind any standard gravity-flap letterbox for retrofit security upgrade.
Blocks Privacy Invasion & Reconnaissance
Beyond theft prevention, the Maguard blocks curious eyes from peering through your letterbox to see hallway valuables, door lock types, or property layout. Burglars often perform reconnaissance by looking through letterboxes before attempting break-ins - identifying alarm systems, expensive items, and easiest entry points. The Maguard's restricted opening prevents visual inspection, eliminating pre-burglary reconnaissance opportunities.
All-Steel Construction - Not Flimsy Plastic
Cheap letterbox security covers use thin plastic or lightweight metal that can be forced open or broken. The Maguard is manufactured from robust steel with black powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance and longevity. Solid construction prevents tampering, forced entry attempts, and physical damage from repeated fishing tool attacks. Low-profile 60mm depth fits internally without interfering with door operation or external aesthetics.
Internal Fitting - No External Modification Required
The Maguard installs internally behind your existing letterbox with four screw fixing points. No external drilling, no visible modifications, no changes to door appearance from outside. This is critical for rental properties, leasehold apartments, or listed buildings where external alterations aren't permitted. The Maguard provides robust security without landlord permission needed for external changes.
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How the 45-Degree Restrictor Works
Physical Barrier vs Deterrent Only
Unlike brush seals or simple cowls that provide psychological deterrent, the Maguard creates a physical mechanical barrier. The 45-degree restriction means:
- Arms cannot reach through letterbox opening (human arm requires 90+ degree aperture)
- Hooks and wires have extremely limited range (maximum 4-5 inches vs 12-18 inches on unrestricted letterboxes)
- Door lock manipulation from inside becomes impossible (insufficient angle to reach internal mechanisms)
- Visual inspection is severely restricted (cannot see hallway layout or key locations)
Post Delivery Still Functions Normally
The 45-degree angle is specifically calculated to allow standard mail, parcels (that fit through letterbox), and post delivery to pass through unimpeded. Postmen push the flap open as normal - mail drops through the restricted opening into your property. The Maguard doesn't block legitimate post delivery, it only prevents hands and tools from reaching back through after post is delivered.
Compatible with Locking Keyset
For maximum security, combine the Maguard with Magflap's optional internal locking keyset. The locking mechanism prevents the letterbox flap from opening at all when locked from inside - providing complete letterbox access prevention when you're home or away overnight. Unlock when expecting deliveries, lock when security is priority. Dual-layer security: 45-degree restriction when unlocked, zero access when locked.
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Technical Specifications
Dimensions:
- External coverage: 374mm width x 85mm height x 60mm depth
- Internal depth clearance required: 60mm minimum
- 45-degree restrictor angle (fixed, not adjustable)
- Weight: 400g
Materials:
- Body: Steel construction
- Finish: Black powder-coated (corrosion resistant)
- Fixing mechanism: Four-point screw mounting
Compatibility:
- Letterbox types: Standard UK horizontal letterboxes (10-13 inch letter plates)
- Works with: Magflap MK3 Horizontal, Magflap MK3 Vertical, standard gravity flaps
- Door types: Timber, uPVC, composite, metal (internal fitting only)
- Door thickness: Suitable for most UK doors with 60mm+ internal clearance
Security Features:
- 45-degree opening restriction (prevents fishing and reaching)
- Steel construction (tamper-resistant)
- Internal fitting (no external modification)
- Compatible with optional locking keyset (sold separately)
Warranty:
- 1 year manufacturer guarantee
- Made in Leicester, UK by Magman
What's Included:
- 1x Maguard Letterbox Security Cover (black powder-coated steel)
- Installation instructions
- Note: Screws not supplied due to varying door thicknesses - use appropriate fixings for your door type (typically 4x 30-40mm wood screws for timber/uPVC, 4x self-tapping metal screws for steel doors)
Add-Ons Available (Sold Separately):
- Internal locking keyset (prevents letterbox opening completely when locked)
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How to Install Maguard Security Cover (10-Minute DIY Guide)
What You'll Need:
- Phillips screwdriver (PZ2/No.2)
- Appropriate screws for your door type:
* Timber/uPVC doors: 4x 30-40mm wood screws
* Composite doors: 4x 35-45mm wood screws
* Metal doors: 4x self-tapping metal screws
- Pencil for marking
- Level (optional but recommended)
Installation Steps:
1. Check internal clearance
Measure the internal depth behind your letterbox - you need minimum 60mm clearance for the Maguard to fit. If your door has protruding bolts or existing internal fixtures, ensure the Maguard will clear these (low-profile design accommodates most configurations).
2. Position the Maguard internally
Hold the Maguard against the inside of your door, centered behind the letterbox aperture. The restrictor should align with the letterbox flap movement path. Use a level to ensure horizontal alignment.
3. Mark fixing holes
Use pencil to mark the four screw holes through the Maguard mounting points. Remove unit and prepare for drilling if needed (most UK doors allow direct screw fixing into timber or uPVC without pre-drilling).
4. Secure with screws
Align Maguard over marked holes. Insert appropriate screws through mounting points and tighten with screwdriver. DO NOT overtighten - snug fit only to avoid warping steel body.
5. Test 45-degree restriction
Push letterbox flap open from outside. It should open to approximately 45 degrees then stop (restricted by Maguard). Confirm post delivery can still pass through. Check that restriction prevents arm/hand access from outside.
Troubleshooting:
- Flap opens more than 45 degrees: Maguard may need repositioning closer to flap hinge point
- Post delivery blocked: Maguard positioned too close to aperture - adjust backward slightly
- Screws won't tighten: Wrong screw type for door material - ensure appropriate fixings for timber/uPVC/composite/metal
Full installation guide with photos available at www.magman.uk/pages/maguard-fitting-guide
Compatibility with Magflap Draught Excluders
Combined Draught & Security Protection
The Maguard is specifically designed to work alongside Magflap MK3 letterbox draught excluders for combined thermal and security benefits:
Magflap MK3 Horizontal + Maguard:
Install Magflap internally first (magnetic draught seal), then fit Maguard behind it (security restriction). Both products work independently - Magflap provides silent magnetic draught sealing, Maguard adds 45-degree security restriction. Combined depth approximately 80mm (Magflap 20mm + Maguard 60mm).
Magflap MK3 Vertical + Maguard:
Same installation approach for vertical (portrait) letterboxes. Maguard 374mm width accommodates vertical Magflap external dimensions. Combined installation provides draught-proof magnetic seal plus anti-fishing security.
Standard Gravity Flaps + Maguard:
Don't have a Magflap? The Maguard works behind any standard gravity-flap letterbox for instant security upgrade. Retrofit protection without removing existing letterbox hardware.
Clearance Requirements:
If fitting Maguard with Magflap, ensure minimum 80mm internal depth clearance (Magflap 20mm + Maguard 60mm). Most UK doors provide 90-120mm internal depth, so combined installation is typically feasible. Measure before ordering both products together.
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UK Manufacturing & Quality Commitment
Made in Leicester Since 2009
Every Maguard is manufactured in our Leicester facility by our small family-run team. We use British steel, precision engineering, and quality control at every stage. Short supply chain means faster service, easier warranty support, and supporting British manufacturing jobs.
1-Year Manufacturer Guarantee
The Maguard is covered by our 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. If defects occur within 1 year, we repair or replace free of charge. We stand behind our product with genuine warranty support.
Sustainable Materials:
- Steel construction (100% recyclable)
- Powder-coated finish (low-VOC process)
- Long product life reduces waste vs annual replacement security products
- Supports UK manufacturing and fair wages
Patent Pending Design:
Our 45-degree restrictor mechanism is registered with UK Intellectual Property Office. You're buying original innovation, not cheap copies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the Maguard stop all letterbox fishing attempts?
A: The Maguard prevents hands, arms, hooks, and reaching tools from accessing your hallway through the letterbox. The 45-degree restriction creates a physical barrier that stops standard fishing techniques. However, for maximum security, combine with optional locking keyset which prevents letterbox opening completely when locked.
Q: Can post still be delivered with Maguard fitted?
A: Yes. The 45-degree restriction allows post, mail, and small parcels to pass through normally. Postmen push the flap open and mail drops through - the Maguard doesn't interfere with legitimate postal delivery.
Q: Will this fit my 12 inch letterbox?
A: Yes. The Maguard is 374mm (14.7 inches) wide, covering most standard UK letterboxes from 10-13 inches. Four screw mounting points provide secure internal fitting across this size range.
Q: Can I fit this with my existing Magflap MK3?
A: Absolutely. The Maguard is designed to work alongside Magflap draught excluders. Install Magflap first (draught seal), then fit Maguard behind it (security restriction). Combined depth approximately 80mm - check you have sufficient internal clearance before ordering both.
Q: What doors does this work on?
A: Compatible with timber, uPVC, composite, and metal doors. Internal fitting only with four screw fixings. Requires minimum 60mm internal depth clearance behind letterbox.
Q: Can I install this myself?
A: Yes. Average installation time is 10 minutes with just a Phillips screwdriver and appropriate screws for your door type. Four screw fixings secure the unit internally - no specialist tools or expertise required.
Q: Why aren't screws included?
A: UK doors vary significantly in thickness (35-70mm) and material (timber, uPVC, composite, metal). Including one screw type would be incorrect for most doors. You need to select appropriate fixings for your specific door - typically 4x 30-40mm wood screws for timber/uPVC, or self-tapping metal screws for steel doors.
Q: Does this work on vertical letterboxes?
A: The Maguard is primarily designed for horizontal letterboxes but can work with vertical (portrait) orientation letterboxes depending on internal configuration. The 374mm width accommodates Magflap MK3 Vertical dimensions. Check your vertical letterbox internal clearance before ordering.
Q: Will this stop someone forcing the letterbox open?
A: The Maguard is made from robust steel construction that resists tampering and forced entry attempts. However, determined attack with power tools could potentially breach any security product. The Maguard is designed to prevent casual fishing attempts and opportunistic theft - not sustained forced entry (which would require breaking door locks regardless of letterbox security).
Q: Can I fit two Maguards for extra security?
A: Technically possible (one internal, one external) but unnecessary. The single internal Maguard provides 45-degree restriction which is sufficient physical barrier. For enhanced security beyond the Maguard, add the optional locking keyset for zero-access when locked.
Q: Does insurance cover key theft through letterbox?
A: Home insurance policies vary. Some cover key theft, others don't if keys were "accessible from outside." Installing the Maguard demonstrates reasonable security precautions which may strengthen insurance claims. Check your specific policy wording regarding key theft coverage.
Q: Will this work with smart locks or electronic door locks?
A: Yes. The Maguard prevents external access through the letterbox regardless of door lock type. Whether you have traditional Yale locks, mortice locks, smart locks, or electronic systems, the Maguard adds physical barrier protection to prevent letterbox-based manipulation attempts.
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