I like to evaluate products, especially if the manufacturer is really tooting their own horn about quality or security.
I got an ABUS 37/55 which is a rotating-disc style lock and the only non-Abloy rotating-disc lock I like. It’s a really good lock with a chrome plated hardened steel body and a good, solid, “tight” feeling. The only thing I don’t like is the plastic headed keys, no padlock in the $100 price range should have plastic headed keys, unless it’s plastic over a regular metal key.
There are many Abloy imitations on the market, some of them claim to be “impossible” to pick, which is an impossible claim in itself. If a key can manipulate the tumblers and open the lock, so can a non-key! The only barrier is time and skill. It may be impossible to spend that much time trying to develop the skill but the lock itself is not impossible to pick. There is no “pick-proof” if the key can open it.
I’m going to get a BiLock cylinder for evaluation, I have no experience with this product line.There are some Medeco deadbolts on their way, I’m going to closely inspect them before installing them.
With all of the new electronic locks on the market, one wonders if they can be “hacked”. The obvious answer is YES! I know nothing about hacking into computers but I have seen many buildings that have large holes in their security. They spend tens of thousands of dollars on an elaborate system with all the bells and whistles. Meanwhile, latches are unguarded and request to exit motion detectors are placed where the can be activated with a coat hanger from outside. These sensors are often too sensitive and can be activated by someone who is just walking by, not going outside. Non-locksmith installers often overlook these and other vulnerabilities. The building management doesn’t want to hear their new, expensive system can be compromised with a simple piece of wire. I have seen them stick their head in the sand and hope it doesn’t happen.
Attention to detail is important for security. If a potential thief walks by and sees a vulnerable spot, they may be tempted to come back later. Many crimes are crimes of opportunity, a crook passed by and saw an open invitation to steal.
Don’t make it easy, make your home and business a less appealing target for burglars, they are lazy by nature and will seek targets offering minimum risk .
Good lock to you.
Chris G.
