Through the Keyhole Into Roger’s World Free Security InspectioN CALL 561.753.LOCK (5625)
Hi. I’m Roger Jordan, the face behind Palm Beach Security and Safes. Welcome to my blog. Now I know what you’re thinking: What in the heck could a locksmith possibly have to blog about? Well, I’ll tell you. Although my line of work isn’t considered exactly glamorous, I’ve encountered enough zany situations to fill … well, a blog!
I’m talking naked people locked out of their homes, divorcees locking each other out of their homes, safe-cracking for law enforcement. You name it, I’ve lived it.
Of course there are serious issues to tackle as well. Homes burglarized in the area that could have avoided it; high-security products, some new, some that have been around for decades and are still the best money can buy. I’ll offer tips about how to keep your home or business secure. I’ll even post some simple do-it-yourself how-to’s, so you can save a buck here and there.
But what I’m really looking forward to is sharing with you the funnier side of being a locksmith. You think the pizza delivery guy has seen it all? Not even close. Check back often and you’ll see what I mean.
SEPTEMBER 14, 2011
The Locksmith Vocabulary
Locksmithing isn’t exactly rocket science, but the craft takes a very specific skill set that begins with knowing the lingo. As with a lot of industries, locksmiths have their own special language. Knowing what the common terms used in the locksmith business are and what they mean can be helpful in getting what you want. So here’s a cheat sheet complete with common locksmith jargon.
- Access control: This refers to any barrier or device that limits or prohibits free or unlimited access to unauthorized users.
- Blank: A key before any cuts have been made.
- Cabinet lock: A relatively small lock designed to be used on drawers, cabinets, pieces of furniture or thin doors.
- Cam Lock: A lock that has an attached cam that serves as the lock’s bolt. Cam locks are often used on cabinets, file cabinets and drawers.
- Change Key: The key that operates one lock in a master keyed system.
- Code: A series of numbers or digits on a key or lock that specifies or references the particular cuts of the key to operate a lock.
- Control Key: A key used to remove the core from an interchangeable core cylinder.
- Deadbolt: A lock with a bolt that requires a deliberate action to extend, and that resists end pressure in the unlocking direction when fully extended.
- Key Control: Any method of procedure that limits unauthorized acquisition of a key and/or controls distribution of authorized keys.
- Master: Any keying arrangement that has two or more levels of keying that allow one person entrance everywhere while restricting others.
With any luck, the next time you hire a locksmith, you’ll know how to speak his language. And remember, good security doesn’t cost; it pays.