
Razor wire comes as concertina coils, which expand into large spiral rolls along a wall top, or flat wrap, which lies in flat overlapping loops for a lower profile. It's specified by blade type (for example BTO-22), coil diameter (such as 450 mm or larger) and material, usually galvanized steel for outdoor durability.
Key takeaways
- Concertina: large coils, strong deterrent.
- Flat wrap: lower profile, neat appearance.
- Blade type sets the barb shape and length.
- Coil diameter sets height and coverage.
- Galvanized steel resists rust outdoors.
01Compared
| Type | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Single-coil concertina | Spiral coil | Most walls |
| Cross-type concertina | Clipped double coils | High-security perimeters |
| Flat wrap | Flat overlapping loops | Low-profile walls, residential |
| Straight razor tape | Single strand | Tops of fences, low cost |
02Next
See razor wire prices, installing flat wrap and barbed vs razor wire.
03Frequently asked questions
What is concertina wire?
Razor wire supplied in coils that stretch out into a spiral along the top of a wall or fence.
What does BTO-22 mean?
It's a common razor blade profile designation describing the barb shape and length.

