I never realized how much peace of mind a simple metal bar could bring until I started using this security bar. The first night I used it in my apartment, I actually slept better knowing my sliding glass door had this extra layer of protection.

What surprised me most was the versatility. Last month during a hotel stay, I adjusted it to fit perfectly against the flimsy-looking entry door. The rubberized ends didn't leave marks on the door frame - something I always worry about in rentals.

The adjustment mechanism does require some patience though. When setting it up for my bedroom window (which only opens about 4 inches), I had to fiddle with the pin alignment for a minute to get that perfect snug fit. But once locked in place? Rock solid.

I keep one in my suitcase now - it collapses down smaller than my umbrella. The forked end has become my favorite feature; when used on windows, it hooks around the frame making it nearly impossible to budge from outside.

Is it bank vault security? Of course not. But for deterring opportunistic intruders and giving me that extra sense of safety whether at home or traveling, this $16 gadget delivers way beyond its price tag.