A 358 anti-climb fence is a high-security welded wire mesh fence made from 4 mm (8 gauge) thick steel wires with mesh openings of 76.2 mm by 12.7 mm (3″ x 0.5″).

Designed to prevent climbing and cutting, its dense grid structure makes it nearly impossible to grip or breach using hand tools. It’s commonly used in prisons, military bases, airports, and critical infrastructure where perimeter protection is essential.

What is a 358 Anti-Climb Fence?

A 358 anti-climb fence is a type of high-security fencing system known for its strength, durability, and most importantly, its ability to prevent climbing or cutting through. It’s widely used in places where security is critical—such as prisons, power plants, military zones, and sometimes even in schoolyards or around sensitive industrial sites.

The name “358” is actually a code that describes the key physical dimensions of the mesh. The numbers stand for 3 inches by 0.5 inches mesh openings, made from 8-gauge wire. In metric terms, that’s about 76.2 mm by 12.7 mm with wire thickness of approximately 4 mm. 

This might sound like a small detail, but it plays a big role in how the fence performs. When wire is that thick and the openings are that tight, it becomes extremely hard—almost impossible—to climb or cut the fence without professional tools, time, and noise.

Before diving deeper into its benefits, let’s clarify what the numbers in “358” actually mean.

What Does “358” Mean in Anti-Climb Fence?

The designation “358” isn’t random. It breaks down the physical properties of the fence in a way that tells you a lot about its function.

Breaking Down the Name: 3-5-8

The “3” refers to the vertical spacing between wires: every 76.2 millimeters (or 3 inches), there’s a horizontal crosswire. The “5” stands for the horizontal spacing—12.7 millimeters (or 0.5 inches) between vertical wires. Lastly, the “8” denotes the wire thickness, which is 8 gauge, or around 4 millimeters thick.

Why Mesh Size and Wire Gauge Matter

This combination—tight mesh, narrow gaps, and thick wire—creates a barrier that offers a very specific kind of protection. You can’t squeeze fingers or toes into it. You can’t easily get cutting tools into it either. And even if you do, each cut removes such a small area that breaching a section takes a long time. That’s the genius of the 358 design. It resists both climbing and cutting—two of the most common intrusion attempts.

Now that the name makes sense, let’s take a closer look at what makes this fence such an effective security solution.

Why Is the 358 Fence So Effective?

The real strength of the 358 fence lies in its physical design. 

1. Climb Resistance by Design

First, let’s talk about climb resistance. Most fences fail here because their design provides some form of leverage. You can grip a chain-link with your fingers. You can step onto wide horizontal bars or welded mesh with larger openings. But with a 358 mesh, the gaps are too small. There’s no way to get a grip with your hands or feet. That makes climbing nearly impossible—unless you’re equipped with specialized tools or equipment, and even then, it’s slow and conspicuous.

2. Cut Resistance Against Intrusion Tools

Cut resistance is another major feature. Common fences can be snipped with bolt cutters in a matter of seconds. Not so with 358. The wire is thick, and the mesh is too tight for most bolt cutter jaws to fit. That alone deters most attempts. And even if someone tries to cut through with a power tool, it takes time, creates noise, and is very likely to be noticed—especially in places with surveillance.

3. Clear Sight Lines for Surveillance

Beyond just strength, the design also offers visibility. The mesh is tight, but the wire is thin enough that it doesn’t block your view. This is incredibly useful in places where guards or cameras need to see what’s happening on both sides of the fence. You get a secure barrier that doesn’t obscure the environment around it.

4. Long-Term Durability in Harsh Environments

Another strength is durability. These fences are made from galvanized steel, often finished with powder coatings for extra protection against rust and weathering. That means they don’t just protect against intruders—they also hold up for years with minimal maintenance. Rain, heat, wind, and even chemical exposure have a hard time wearing down a properly coated 358 fence.

5. Clean Look Without Looking Hostile

And although security is the priority, the fence doesn’t look aggressive. Its clean, straight lines and see-through structure give it a neutral, professional appearance. It’s not a wall, and it’s not barbed wire—it’s secure without looking hostile.

Because of all these qualities, it’s no surprise that the 358 fence shows up in a wide range of settings. Let’s walk through where and how it’s typically used.

Common Uses of 358 Anti-Climb Fence

Because of all these strengths, 358 fences are used in some of the most security-sensitive environments you can think of. 

1. Maximum-Security Facilities

Around prisons, they serve as the first line of defense—hard to climb, hard to cut, and very visible for the guards watching. Military bases and government buildings also rely on them, especially in areas where controlling access is critical.

2. Airports, Railways, and Transport Sites

You’ll also find 358 fences at airports, train depots, and power stations—places where intrusions could have serious consequences. These fences allow clear views for surveillance but still form a solid, physical barrier against unauthorized entry.

3. Schools, Parks, and Public Buildings

Schools and public parks sometimes use them as well, especially when child safety is a concern. The fence’s see-through design keeps the space open and inviting, but its security features ensure that no one can easily enter—or exit—without permission.

4. High-End Residential Applications

Some residential properties also make use of 358 fencing, particularly in gated communities or estates where high security is a top concern. It’s not common for the average home, mostly due to the higher cost, but it is available as a premium option.

If you’re considering one for your own use, it’s helpful to understand how it’s actually installed and what its main components are.

How to Install a 358 Anti-Climb Fence?

A 358 anti-climb fence is typically built in panels, with each panel made of welded mesh attached to steel posts. 

Standard Dimensions and Panel Sizes

The panels are usually 2.5 meters wide, though exact sizes can vary by supplier. They come in various heights—commonly 2, 2.4, 3, or even 6 meters tall—depending on how secure the perimeter needs to be.

Post Systems and Clamp Bar Fixings

The mesh panels are attached to the posts using clamp bars and tamper-proof bolts. These fixings run the full height of the panel, making it nearly impossible to remove the fence without the proper tools. The posts themselves are anchored into the ground with concrete, ensuring that the structure is solid and stable.

Add-Ons: Barbed Wire, Sensors, and Gates

These fences are often designed to integrate with security systems. Barbed wire, razor coils, lighting, and motion sensors can all be added. This makes the 358 mesh fence not just a physical barrier but part of a larger security ecosystem.

Still wondering how it stacks up against other common fences? That’s up next.

What’s the Difference Between 358 and Other Fences?

Chain-Link Fencing: Low Cost, Low Security

Compared to a typical chain-link fence, 358 fencing is in a different league. Chain-link is easy to climb, easy to cut, and doesn’t offer the same visual deterrent. It’s also less rigid and more prone to sagging or damage over time. Chain-link might work fine for a garden or a dog run, but it’s not what you’d use for securing a prison or a data center.

Palisade Fencing: Spikes vs. Visibility

Palisade fences are another alternative. They look more intimidating, with vertical steel pales and spiked tops. These are good at discouraging climbing too, but they block visibility more than 358 mesh. They’re also more prone to being pried apart if someone is determined enough. And aesthetically, they don’t always blend well in urban or landscaped settings.

Welded Mesh Panels: A Middle Ground

Standard welded mesh panels, like 3D fence panel or V-mesh panel fence types, are somewhere in the middle. They’re stiffer and stronger than chain-link but don’t offer the same cut or climb resistance as 358. The openings are larger, the wire might be thinner, and they’re generally used for medium-security needs—like school perimeters or warehouse fences.

Which Fence Matches Your Risk Level?

So, while 358 fencing does come at a higher price, it often earns its keep through lower maintenance, longer lifespan, and better protection.

Now the question is, should you consider it for your own project? Let’s wrap up with a few thoughts to help you decide.

Summary

With all that said, is 358 anti climb fence the right security fence for your needs? That depends on your priorities. 

If you’re securing a site where intrusion is a serious risk—whether that’s theft, vandalism, escape, or terrorism—a 358 fence is a strong candidate. It’s engineered for situations where the fence must do more than mark a boundary. It must actively prevent someone from getting through.

It’s not the cheapest solution, and it’s not the easiest to install. But it offers a level of protection that’s hard to match. If you’re running a facility where a break-in could mean danger, financial loss, or public safety issues, this is the kind of barrier you want in place.

It’s also not just about stopping people—it’s about buying time. A fence like this slows intruders down enough that alarms, guards, or cameras can do their job.

To round things off, let’s look at a few common questions people have about 358 fences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone climb a 358 fence?

Not under normal circumstances. The mesh openings are too small to fit fingers or toes, which means there’s no way to get a grip. That’s why it’s used in high-security environments—it physically prevents most climbing attempts, even with tools or ladders.

Can it be cut with bolt cutters?

It’s extremely difficult. The 4 mm thick wire and the narrow 0.5-inch gaps between the mesh make it hard for bolt cutters to even fit, let alone apply force. Cutting it by hand is slow, noisy, and almost always detected before anyone gets through.

Is it overkill for homes?

In most neighborhoods, yes—it’s more security than you typically need. But for large properties, high-end estates, or homes in high-risk areas, it offers unmatched peace of mind. It’s also visually discreet compared to walls or palisade fences.

How long does it last?

A properly coated 358 fence can last 20 years or more. The galvanized steel resists rust, and the powder coating protects it from UV damage and rain. It’s considered a low-maintenance solution with a long operational life.

Is it hard to install?

Yes, and precision matters. The fence needs exact post spacing, secure concrete footings, and tamper-resistant bolts. It’s not a DIY weekend project—professional installation is highly recommended to ensure security and longevity.