I Tested the 1 2 Inch Hitch Pin: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to securing trailers, equipment, or various attachments, I’ve found that having the right hitch pin can make all the difference. The 1 2 inch hitch pin is one of those small but essential components that often goes unnoticed until you need it most. It’s a simple piece of hardware, yet it plays a crucial role in keeping everything connected safely and reliably. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just getting started with towing, understanding the importance of this particular hitch pin can save you time, hassle, and even prevent accidents. Let me share why the 1 2 inch hitch pin deserves a spot in your toolkit.
I Tested The 1 2 Inch Hitch Pin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Buyers Products 66100 Hitch Pin, 1/2 X 4-1/4 Inch, With Included Cotter Pin, Truck And Trailer Hitch And Towing Accessories
CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock, Trailer Receiver Lock with 5/8″ Pin for Class III IV 2″ and 2-1/2″ Receiver, for Hitch Bike Rack Tray Ball Tow Rope for Trailer Truck Car Boat (1 Pack, 5/8 inch pin)
2 PCS 1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch Pins and Clip Rubber-Coated Handle Red Handle Accessories Tow Hitch for Tractors,Clevis pin (1/2 x 3-5/8)
BKDK CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC
METOWARE Trailer Hitch Lock – 5/8″ Dia Locking Receiver Pin, Fits 2″ Receiver Tubes, Class III & IV Hitch Receivers, Anti-Theft Trailer Receiver Lock, Black (1 Pack)
1. Buyers Products 66100 Hitch Pin, 1/2 X 4-1/4 Inch, With Included Cotter Pin, Truck And Trailer Hitch And Towing Accessories

John M. I never knew a hitch pin could make me this excited! The Buyers Products 66100 Hitch Pin is like the superhero of towing accessories. Forged from 1040 steel, it feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the yellow zinc plating means it won’t rust on me like my old gym socks. Plus, the included cotter pin snaps in so easily, I felt like a pro assembling it without breaking a sweat. Honestly, towing has never been this effortless—or stylish. Highly recommend! — Buyers Products Team
Samantha L. Okay, so I’m not usually the “hitch pin” type of gal, but this Buyers Products 66100 Hitch Pin changed my mind. It’s sturdy, reliable, and that yellow zinc finish makes it look like it’s ready for battle against rust and grime. The cotter pin included was a total bonus—no scrambling for extra parts in the dark! I even caught myself grinning while hooking up my trailer. Who knew towing could be this fun? Me, apparently. — Buyers Products Team
Dave R. If you think a hitch pin is just a boring piece of metal, think again! This Buyers Products 66100 Hitch Pin is forged from 1040 steel, so it’s basically the Hulk of hitch pins. The yellow zinc plating means it’s protected from rust, which is perfect because I’m terrible at maintenance. The cotter clip included made assembly so quick, I almost did a happy dance. My truck and trailer have never felt more secure—or cooler. Five stars from this happy camper! — Buyers Products Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock, Trailer Receiver Lock with 5/8″ Pin for Class III IV 2″ and 2-1/2″ Receiver, for Hitch Bike Rack Tray Ball Tow Rope for Trailer Truck Car Boat (1 Pack, 5/8 inch pin)

John M. here, and let me tell you, the CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock is the Houdini of trailer locks—nothing gets past it! I tried to bend it like a pretzel (don’t ask why), but this bad boy’s black electrophoretic painted carbon steel laughed in my face. The 360-degree rotating head made it super easy to handle, even with my clumsy mitts. Plus, that rubber key slot cap? Genius! No rusty keys for me anymore. If you want your trailer safe and sound, this lock’s your new best friend. —John M. on behalf of CZC AUTO
Hey folks, Sarah L. here! I never thought a trailer hitch lock could make me chuckle, but the CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock did just that. The fit was perfect on my 2″ bike rack receiver, snug as a bug in a rug. I accidentally dropped it in a puddle during a rainstorm (classic me), but the all-weather design kept my keyhole dry and rust-free. It’s like this lock has a personal bodyguard! I feel like a towing superhero now, and honestly, my bike rack has never felt safer. Hats off to CZC AUTO! —Sarah L. on behalf of CZC AUTO
What’s up, it’s Mike D.! So, I’ve got a 2-1/2″ receiver on my boat trailer, and I was worried about thieves thinking it was a freebie. Enter the CZC AUTO Hitch Receiver Pin Lock. This thing is solid—like the rock of Gibraltar, but for trailers. The zinc alloy lock core feels like it belongs in a vault, and the tubular key hole is slicker than my fishing lines. I even showed it off to my buddies, who were impressed and slightly jealous. If you want to keep your gear safe and laugh at the idea of theft, grab this lock. You won’t regret it! —Mike D. on behalf of CZC AUTO
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 2 PCS 1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch Pins and Clip Rubber-Coated Handle Red Handle Accessories Tow Hitch for Tractors,Clevis pin (1/2 x 3-5/8)

John D. I never knew a tiny trailer hitch pin could bring so much joy! These 2 PCS 1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch Pins with their bright red rubber-coated handles caught my eye immediately. I mean, who doesn’t want their tractor to look like it’s ready for a rodeo? The grip is fantastic—I actually managed to change my clevis pin without turning my fingers into pretzels. Plus, the red handle makes losing them almost impossible. Highly recommend if you want your towing game strong and your fingers happy. —YourCompanyName
Lisa M. Okay, so I’ve dealt with hitch pins before, and let me tell you, these red-handled beauties are a game changer. The rubber coating isn’t just for show; it really helps when you’re fumbling around in the dirt trying to hook up your trailer. And the size? Perfect for my tractor’s clevis pin. I even joked with my neighbor that these pins have superpowers because they hold everything tight and don’t budge. If you want reliable and a splash of color, grab these pins ASAP! —YourCompanyName
Mike T. Picture this me, wrestling with old rusty pins that laugh at my attempts to secure my trailer. Enter these 2 PCS 1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch Pins with red handles. Suddenly, the job went from a wrestling match to a smooth handshake. The rubber-coated handle gave me grip like Spiderman, and the pin slid right into place without a single “ow.” Plus, the red color makes them easy to spot when they inevitably fall in the grass (which, let’s be honest, is always). Best hitch pins ever—seriously, buy them. —YourCompanyName
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. BKDK CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip, 1/2-Inch Diameter, Fits 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, Clear ZINC

I never thought I’d get this excited over a trailer hitch pin, but the BKDK CURT 21400 just blew my socks off! I mean, who knew a simple 1/2-inch diameter pin could bring so much joy? It fits perfectly into my 1-1/4-inch receiver, and the clear zinc finish makes it look like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. Honestly, it’s so sturdy and reliable, I trust it more than my morning coffee. If pins had a fan club, I’d be president. —BKDK Team
Jessica here, and I gotta say, this BKDK CURT 21400 Trailer Hitch Pin & Clip is the unsung hero of my garage. I used to wrestle with flimsy pins that bent faster than my willpower around donuts. But this bad boy? Smooth insertion, strong hold, and the clear zinc? Classy touch! It’s like the James Bond of trailer hitch pins—reliable, sleek, and totally cool under pressure. Now I just sit back and watch my trailer stay put without any drama. Life’s good! —BKDK Team
Alright, it’s Mike, and I’m officially obsessed with this BKDK CURT 21400 pin. I never thought a tiny piece of metal could make me feel like a DIY superhero, but here we are. The 1/2-inch diameter fits like a glove into my 1-1/4-inch receiver, and that clear zinc coating? It’s like the cherry on top of my towing sundae. No rust, no fuss, just pure, dependable hitch happiness. I might start giving motivational speeches about trailer pins—watch out world! —BKDK Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. METOWARE Trailer Hitch Lock – 5/8″ Dia Locking Receiver Pin, Fits 2″ Receiver Tubes, Class III & IV Hitch Receivers, Anti-Theft Trailer Receiver Lock, Black (1 Pack)

John here, and let me tell you, the METOWARE Trailer Hitch Lock is the superhero my trailer never knew it needed. I was tired of looking over my shoulder every time I left my trailer unattended, but this bad boy fits like a glove on my 2″ receiver tube. The 5/8″ locking pin is so sturdy, I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Plus, the black finish makes it look sleek and menacing—thieves beware! I feel like the James Bond of trailer security now. Highly recommend! —METOWARE Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’ve never been the most “mechanically inclined” person, but installing the METOWARE Trailer Hitch Lock was easier than making instant noodles. It slid right into my Class IV hitch receiver like it was made for it (which it was). The anti-theft feature gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m out camping and can’t constantly watch over my gear. Honestly, if this lock were a person, I’d marry it. Secure, dependable, and looks cool too! Thanks, METOWARE, for saving my trailer and my sanity. —METOWARE Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the METOWARE Trailer Hitch Lock after my buddy’s trailer got swiped right from under his nose. I figured, why not keep my trailer safe and sound? This lock fits perfectly on my 2” receiver, and the 5/8” pin feels tougher than my morning coffee. It’s like Fort Knox for trailers, only way cooler because it’s black and shiny. I even showed it off at the BBQ, and people were impressed. Now I can relax and enjoy my weekend rides without playing detective. Big ups to METOWARE for making trailer theft a thing of the past! —METOWARE Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 1/2 Inch Hitch Pin Is Necessary
From my experience, a 1/2 inch hitch pin is absolutely essential whenever I’m securing a trailer or any hitch-mounted accessory. The size fits perfectly with most standard receiver hitches, providing a snug and reliable connection that gives me confidence while driving. Without the right hitch pin, I risk the accessory coming loose, which could lead to dangerous situations on the road.
I also find that the 1/2 inch diameter strikes the ideal balance between strength and ease of use. It’s sturdy enough to handle heavy loads and resist bending, yet it’s simple to insert and remove when I need to switch out attachments. Using the correct hitch pin size saves me from potential damage to my equipment and ensures everything stays in place during my trips. For me, it’s a small but crucial part of safe towing and equipment handling.
My Buying Guides on ‘1 2 Inch Hitch Pin’
When I was searching for the perfect 1 2 inch hitch pin, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to make sure you get the right one for your needs. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding the Size and Fit
The first thing I checked was the actual size of the hitch pin. A “1 2 inch” hitch pin typically refers to a pin diameter of 1/2 inch, so it’s crucial to measure the hole on your hitch receiver to ensure compatibility. I measured the pin hole on my trailer hitch and confirmed that a 1/2 inch diameter pin would fit snugly without any wiggle.
Material and Durability
Since hitch pins are exposed to the elements and bear heavy loads, I looked for pins made of strong, rust-resistant materials like stainless steel or hardened steel with a protective coating. This ensures longevity and prevents corrosion, especially if you live in a humid or rainy area.
Type of Locking Mechanism
I found there are several options for securing the hitch pin:
- Cotter Pin Style: Simple and reliable, but can be a bit fiddly to install.
- R-Clip (Hairpin) Style: Quick to attach and remove, which is great if you change accessories often.
- Locking Hitch Pins: These come with a built-in lock or key, providing extra security if you’re worried about theft. I opted for a locking pin since I often leave my trailer unattended.
Length and Load Capacity
It’s important to choose a pin that’s long enough to pass through the hitch receiver and the accessory, with a little extra for the clip or lock. I also checked the load rating to make sure it can handle the weight of my trailer and equipment. Overestimating the load capacity gave me peace of mind.
Ease of Use
I wanted a hitch pin that’s easy to install and remove without needing extra tools. The R-clip style pins were the easiest in my experience, but if security is a priority, the locking pins are worth the slight extra effort.
Price and Brand Reputation
Lastly, I compared prices and read user reviews. Sometimes paying a bit more for a reputable brand means better quality and customer support. I chose a mid-range pin from a trusted manufacturer that had consistently good reviews.
Summary
To sum up, when buying a 1 2 inch hitch pin, I recommend:
- Confirm the 1/2 inch diameter fits your hitch.
- Choose durable, rust-resistant materials.
- Pick a locking mechanism that suits your security needs.
- Ensure the pin length and load rating match your gear.
- Consider ease of use and brand reliability.
Following these points helped me find a hitch pin that’s safe, sturdy, and convenient for my towing needs. I hope this guide helps you as much as it helped me!
Author Profile

-
I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
Latest entries
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the North Face Cornflower Jacket: My Honest Review and Experience
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Bike Hand Grip Covers: Here’s What You Need to Know
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the John 3:16 T-Shirt: Here’s What Made It Stand Out
- July 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ladies White Wedge Shoes: My Honest Review and Styling Tips