Nexion - Next Generation Door Locks

Lockwood Australia, part of the worldwide Assa-Abloy group of companies recently released a stylish new addition to their range of modern entry door hardware.

The Nexion range is a sensational and functional product that combines the highly sought after modern keyless functionality, with a key over-ride function, in modern, aesthetically pleasing designs.

Using similar technology to automotive rolling code remote control systems, you are assured that your remote can only be programmed by a specialist locksmith service provider.

The product is available in double cylinder, single cylinder and safety release models. The lockset provides both audible and visual indication of electronic activation.

It is designed to retro-fit in place of most standard residential or commercial door applications.

Will it come to the USA?

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BBB Accreditation

Master Key Systems America LLC, proudly announces our BBB accreditation. We have fulfilled the strict requirements of compliance with the policy, organization and rules of the Better Business Bureau.

Residents and businesses can be re-assured that we are a pro-active business maintaining the highest ethics and principles in honest business dealings.

We welcome any and all checks as to our credibility and encourage all consumers to confirm their chosen service providers are also BBB accreditted.

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Licensing for trades

In the great state of Missouri, licensing is not required for many trades including locksmiths. It seems as if the government has adopted a policy of licensing only trades that can affect consumers on a personal (i.e. > bodily) level.

Watching advertising practises online, provides many examples of misleading messages. None more-so than the quantity of websites and online advertisements that state "Licensed, Bonded and Insured".

How can one be licensed if licensing does not exist?

If an advertiser is lying to you in print, how can you trust them for real?

Perhaps the consumer doesnt really care whether the tradesperson that answers their query, is licensed or bonded or not?

Bilock Deadbolts - Special December 2009

We have 2 only Bilock deadbolts in Polished Brass (Gold) available for the very special price of $72.00 each.

This unheard of price will probably never be repeated.

2 Keys included.

* Terms on application

EDIT 03/08/2010: All Bilock Prices from now on will be quoted at the Manufacturers Recommended Prices Online (in accordance with Bilock USA's terms). For discounted pricing, please contact us directly by voice or email.

Falcon Automatic Operator

The Falcon Automatic Operator is the latest addition to the Falcon range of superior quality door closers and operators. This amazing product follows closely with Falcon's industry leading range of door hardware products.

This new addition to the Falcon portfolio of door hardware is the most cost-effective solution in the industry for automating entrances. Designed for the commercial market, the Falcon Operator is ideal for assisted living communities, low traffic store front entrances, or automating interior doors for added assistance. An integrated intelligent power boost graduates additional closing assist when door nears latch. This feature helps to ensure secure closing to overcome external conditions and pressure differentials. The control box demonstrates its intelligence by detecting obstructions and will temporarily reprogram opening degree to avoid abuse to the door. The Falcon Operator comes with an easy to install line of accessories including a wireless transmitter and receiver.

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Strikemaster II Pro

This video shows exactly how and why the Strikemaster 11 product is essential to securing homes and residences. This particular video is almost 4 years old and the price displayed there is incorrect.

The new Strikemaster 11 Pro product is an improvement to the design of this fantastic product and is available now. Whether you decide to order it direct from the manufacturer or through any of their dealers, the price is identical.

We expect stocks of the newer model in about 3 weeks time.

We previously talked about the Strikemaster 11 in March 2008.

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Baldwin Pocket Door Lock

Pictured here is the Baldwin Pocket Door Lock that is available from Baldwin dealers (including us).

This lock is designed to secure pocket sliding doors with the option of single or double cylinder.

This lock can be keyed alike with Schlage branded keys.

Installation is quite straightforward as depicted in the second picture.

The lock sells for $417.00.

Crime Rate - Maryland Heights December 09

Here are the updated crime statistics for the Maryland Heights/Hazelwood localities, as reported by the Maryland Heights and Hazelwood Police Departments, period 11/2/09 - 12/2/09.

Assault - 8

Burglary - 35

Sex Offense - 4

Robbery - 3

Theft - 186

Theft from Vehicle - 4

Theft of vehicle - 16

Paying attention to the number of thefts, it is important to note that many of the reports include theft of services, passing bad checks, credit card fraud.

Recent news reports have been misleading, in that the crime rate for the entire St Louis region have been declining. It is true that the types of aggravated assaults and weapons offenses have and are in decline, thanks to excellent police work by city and county police departments.

But larceny, property damage, theft from dwellings and break and enterings are seeing a trend upward in quantity.

The unemployment rate and cost of living increases, directly affect the crime rates.

Securing your homes and possessions is of cardinal importance to protect yourselves and your families and your properties.

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St Louis Police Department Published Crime Prevention Brochure

Pictured here is the current St Louis Police Department burglary prevention brochure, it makes available to residents in the St Louis County region.

I find this particularly troubling because of the very clear mention there of the recommended use of alarm systems before they suggest you use quality locking devices.

Alarm systems never have been nor ever will be crime prevention devices. They cannot be.

An alarm can only and will only inform that an event is occurring or has occurred. They cannot protect or prevent a burglary or burglary attempt.

On page 2 of this brochure, they go on to indicate the use of deadbolts, however they illustrate a double cylinder deadbolt. Double cylinder deadbolts are not legal according to the International Building Code that St Louis County adheres and subscribes to.

What say you, St Louis Police Department? Do you endorse alarm systems over physical security devices?

I suggest "YES", because every monitored alarm system that sounds, whether false or legitimate, the monitoring companies dispatch police officers to attend and therefore the police charge accordingly to the home owner fees for their attendance. It is a money making scheme hatched between alarm system providers and the police department.

For the complete brochure, follow the link below.

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Electronic Key Cabinet

Many companies, hotels, corporations and especially automobile sellers require sophisticated monitoring and tracking of the keys important to their organizations.

Organized departments require systems that manage effective and useful access control, to maintain security, reduce costs and keep the well oiled machine running at maximum capacity

Enter Key Monitoring Control Units

An easy to use wall mounted system, offering total control and complete management of keys and their use. Keys housed in the Key Monitor may only be accessed by authorized personnel after entering their valid means of identification. Only keys programmed as available to a particular user are shown on the Key Monitor touch screen for release, all other keys are electronically held within the cabinet.

A virtually unlimited number of users and various access levels may be programmed into the Key Monitor onboard computer. Keys may be individually timed and alarmed, ensuring attention is drawn to keys not removed or returned at a designated time. A complete record of the systems operations is retained in the event log which can be viewed onboard or remotely.

Features and Functions:

• virtually unlimited number of keys can be monitored
• networking is by a standard RJ45 connector
• remote monitoring via network option
• multiple sites can be monitored via networking
• event log records store the last 1600 events
• printing to network capable printer for reporting purposes
• touch screen for ease of use
• battery backup allows full operation after mains power failure
• solid metal outer door available (optional)
• duress alarm available with silent output
• can be connected to central alarm system
• virtually unlimited number of access levels available

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Window Security Products

Windows are found in almost every dwelling, building or office worldwide. They have increasingly become an important and vital access point requiring security.

The Jacklock Company Ltd Window and Door Restrictors are purposely designed from high quality materials to increase the desired security and convenience of all types of windows.

Fashionable and surprisingly inexpensive, it is possible to lock/restrict window openings, like never before.

With the increase in crime rates being reported around the USA, since the global financial crisis has affected employment, it has become necessary to secure your properties more than ever.

Now you can secure your windows too.

The Jackloc window and door restrictor was designed with Health and Safety in mind. This was due to the number of restrictors failing and accidents occurring, sometimes resulting in fatalities

For security and safety

• Suitable for every type of opening window or door
• Can be fitted to all materials
• Key lockable—for individual locks or multiples
• The lock will always engage when the key is removed
• Steel rope or chain link options produced to any lengths
• Wide range of finishes—colours to suit
• Security screws are provided for wood, steel, aluminium and UPVC.PLEASE NOTE:
  Both cable and lock should be fitted with screws of a suitable size and design for the individual window construction.
  

Supplied to:

• Health Authorities
• Hospitals
• Local Authorities
• Universities and Schools
• Housing / Sheltered Accommodation
• Day Care Nurseries
• Embassies
  

Commercial use:

• Hotels
• Office Developments
• Window Manufacturers
• Building Contractors
• Charitable Organisations

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Master Key Explained

As a blog author and locksmith, as a business owner and statistician, I keenly watch the results using Google Analytics, of the search terms people use while attempting to gather knowledge that may help them to be more aware when purchasing products or services.

I am noticing a significant number of searches recently about master keying although, it may be due to a cardinal lack of understanding about the principle.

It seems that many searches recently are from people who assume that all deadbolts are master keyed. This is simply not true. It is a fallacy.

A deadbolt, or any other lock for that matter, must be purposely master keyed.

There are no pre-fabricated master keys for residential or commercial deadbolt locks.

In bygone years, manufacturers of some bit-key type mortise deadlocks, did produce some of their ranges with a purposely designed flaw allowing for a "skeleton" key to operate. This skeleton key was often referred to as a Master Key.

There are some manufacturers of coin machine locks or cam locks, that routinely produce their locks to be master keyed. The primary benefit in using master keyed coin or cam locks is for commercial situations like an office complex that uses on-site maintenance to minimize the quantity of keys a janitor or other service person can be required to carry.

Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant

Having worked in the locksmith trade over a quarter century, I have worked with many lubricants over the years. My favorite lubricant and the one I recommend to all my customers is Tri-Flow.

Many tasks I perform for customers often involve repairing locks due to the wrong product having been used, in attempt by an unknowing homeowner or handyman to DIY (do it yourself).

While the DIY industry is one of the biggest, often the advice given may not be correct or may be given by someone with no real experience.

The most common lubricant (and I use the term loosely, here) found in most hardware stores is WD-40.

WD stands for Water Displacement and 40 is the fourtieth formula that achieved it's purpose.

When you displace water, you effectively dry out the application (remove any lubrication).

WD-40 was designed to dry the points on wet motors. It is designed to "dry out" wet metals. It is a penetrating fluid that can temporarily lubricate metal parts, but will dry out (and gum up) as it is designed to do.

I strongly recommend that customers think twice before using WD40. I cannot tell you the number of times I have seen or see it used in locks. Whenever I ask a client, "did you use something to lubricate this lock?" and they answer with "WD40", my standard reaction is "Uh Huh!". This often has them asking what they should use and I always recommend Tri-Flow.

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Opening Cars, Cars and More Cars

It really does seem that there are fewer and fewer companies (who advertise 24 hour/7 day services), not answering the phone as they advertise.

Pictured here is a Ford Contour, similar to one I opened last night.

I open a great many cars and houses for people unlucky enough to lock themselves out. There is a fairly resolute market for automotive locksmithing if that is where you like to focus your skills.

I am happy to unlock any door for a customer however I draw the line at making new original or duplicate keys for the more modern chip key type vehicles. Why? I am glad you asked.

I worked on cars and trucks for many of my first 20 years in the locksmithing trade. I definitely burnt myself out on cars. They do not provide any interest for me any longer. I decided, when I researched my current business, that I would focus on true locksmithing as opposed to automotive services. Was this a wise decision?

The obtrusive cost of the required tools and programming hardware, to enable a complete automotive service is unrealistically high and unaffordable. Unless customers are happy to spend more than the average monthly car payment, it can be a fruitless exercise.

I know many locksmiths who specialize in cars, that spend in excess of $25,000 annually just to keep their tools and equipment up to date. They are required to charge significantly expensive prices to their customers, to be able to continue offering auto services.

Not where I focus. I prefer to offer residential and commercial solutions that provide security with aesthetic appeal and form and function. Specializing like this, enables me to offer very competitive pricing.

I will still open cars for those in an emergency and I do not advertize 24 hour service, but if i answer the phone, I will come out and help you if you are nice.

We Are Back!

Vacation Over

I arrived home late last night after my combined business/vacation trip to Australia.

The opportunity to catch up with friends and family provided a much needed recharge.

I am delighted to have also visited some select manufacturers and distributors during my brief stay in multiple cities in Australia.

In future posts, I hope to provide some new product information and summaries of some of the companies I was lucky enough to visit.

To all my friends and family, thank you for your warm hospitality and kindness. My home is your home when you come my direction.

To all my loyal customers, thank you for your patience and continued support. I apologize for any inconvenience caused and assure you I'm back on the job!

Fact Finding Mission

We will close for our annual break from November 1, 2009 until November 20, 2009. During this break, we will be travelling overseas on a fact finding mission, negotiating with new suppliers of specialty and unique security products and accessories.

We look forward to reporting about more new products, in the coming weeks.

We would like to thank our customers and readers for the continued support.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and look forward to serving everyone upon our return.

New Website For St. Louis Locksmiths

We are announcing our newest development. A website powered by the Weebly format.

We invite everyone to visit www.locksmiths-st-louis.com

We would appreciate your feedback and any suggestions for improvement.

UPDATE: As can be expected, the site is being rebuilt constantly, so it keeps going down. We expect to have this rectified very soon.

Digital Peephole

If you enjoy your privacy and like to keep unexpected guests at bay, then a new security device from Brinno might be just what you need. Simply press a button and the Digital Peephole Viewer gives you a clear, wide view of your visitor via an LCD screen. Another press and you can zoom in for a closer peek. It gets better though – unlike regular peepholes, this one doesn’t darken whilst viewing – so your visitor will never know you can see them.

The Peephole Viewer compensates for low lighting and “fisheye” distortion, and is suitable for people of all heights. It is also ideal for people with failing eyesight as it affords a clear, wide view and a zoom-in function. Repeatedly pressing the button will allow you to switch easily between regular and zoom modes. Each press of the button will reset the timer for ten seconds.

Powered by two AA batteries - that’s about 1500 peeps - the Peephole Viewer automatically turns off after ten seconds to conserve battery life. The red low battery light will flash to alert you to change batteries. The viewer is fitted with a 1.3 MP CMOS sensor and the optical lens has a view angle of 54 degrees.

Currently only available in Australia for about $160.00 (US$140.00)

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Finger Hinge

A new invention by an Australian refrigerator mechanic is creating a stir across the world.

The Finger Hinge is designed to prevent fingers from getting jammed in a door frame.

The simplicity of this design is so intelligent, it is one of those "why didnt i think of that" moments.

It will retro fit virtually any existing door hinge across the world.

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Bilock Deadbolts - Sale Ends

Announcement

Our September sale on Brass Bilock single cylinder deadbolts, ends today.

We managed to sell virtually all our inventory of the Bilock single cylinder deadbolts in brass, thanks to the many discerning bargain hunting shoppers.

We anticipate a new special in coming months. Stay Tuned.

Paradigm 005 Deadbolt by Lockwood

Last year we talked about the Lockwood 005 Paradigm Deadbolt as a new entrant to the home security market.

The above video shows how well this product is designed and how easy it is to install. It is also one of the few products available anywhere in the world, that provides double cylinder (key lockable inside and outside) protection while providing building and fire code compliance.

Many home owners have beautiful front main entry doors, that are the first thing their guests see when visiting. Many home owners pride themselves on the appearance of their front door and the lock hardware products market is one of the busiest and most competitive industries.

But until now, due to building codes and fire protection laws, primary entrance doors are not allowed to incorporate double cylinder locks. This has been a rather contentious issue across the world, because people have been unable to install adequate security products while adhering to building and fire codes.

It will be interesting to see if the USA market learns from the example of Lockwood Australia and product manufacturers here modify their product range to include these new superior design and function deadbolts.

Service Magic - Prescreened Professionals

I have been a member of the Service Magic contractor network for a little over 2 years now and am reasonably happy with the quantity of work they send me.

The benefits that Service Magic provide are multiple. They screen the customers and the contractors. They utilize premium online advertising opportunities. They provide company profiles and especially testimonials.

I am lucky to have about 60 testimonials on the site with an average rating of 4.8 (out of 5). The testimonials are all genuine, because only the client can fill in the testimonial form.

When I first joined the Service Magic network, there were at least 6 locksmith companies in my region, also listed there. Within 12 months, virtually all had dropped out, but I maintained my membership because it has proven to be a rewarding program that has benefitted my startup immensely.

To aspiring contractor professionals, seeking additional sources of qualified leads, look no further than the industry leader, Service Magic.

ServiceMagic is reaching millions of homeowners with their national ad campaign

• 400 million impressions on TV
• Appearing on The Today Show, The Tonight Show, and across CNBC, MSNBC, Bravo, SciFi, Oxygen and USA.

Cowdroy P697 Pocket Door Lock With Key UPDATE! (discontinued)

News Flash! News Flash! News Flash!

Cowdroy P697 Pocket Door Lock With Key

As informed in a previous article here, we are pleased to announce that we have received confirmation from our local fire marshal that the Cowdroy P697 Pocket Door Lock with Key, will comply with life safety codes and fire and building codes, provided it is not used on primary entrances or exits.

The Cowdroy P697 Cavity/Pocket Door Lock, is secured using a double cylinder 5 wafer (disc) tumbler mechanism, providing a 100% bump proof lock. This means that the selected door can be locked by key from both inside and outside.

Easily replaces almost all existing pocket or sliding cavity door locks.

Securing your pocket doors has never been so easy.

Each unit arrives with complete, easy to follow installation instructions and 2 keys.

**NOTE** This product is designed for doors up to 42mm (1-11/16") thick.

(source...)
Thanks to Garry Aumann of Keyman Services, Gold Coast, Australia.

See also: Keyed Pocket Door Lock Install Instructions

THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED

we sell and recommend the Lockwood 7444 Keyed Pocket Door Lock instead

Creve Coeur, MO City Data

I live and work in the City of Creve Coeur, MO.

I perform locksmith and door repairs for clients in and around the towns neighboring 20 miles.

I came across an interesting site that provides data on different cities, that is of interest to me and might be of interest to others too.

The data on this site, at the time of this post, is for the period 2001-2006.

I am primarily concerned with the statistics of crime. Specifically property crime. The rates here may be alarming to some, however they also indicate that Creve Coeur is an excellent town to live and work.

According the the site, "Creve Coeur's property crime levels tend to be lower than Missouri's average level. The same data shows violent crime levels in Creve Coeur tend to be much lower than Missouri's average level."

As you can see in the chart, Creve Coeur experiences significantly lower statistics than the rest of Missouri. This is obviously the result of exemplary work by the Creve Coeur Police Department and a testament to above average quality of life in the Creve Coeur, MO region.

Kwikset Announces Web Enabled Deadbolts

Breaking News!

Kwikset announces availability of Smartcode with Home Connect technology, remote access control products at

Cedia 2009, Atlanta.

According to the release, "these one-of-a-kind keyless entry electronic locks, developed for interoperability with home automation and security systems, can communicate wirelessly with other devices in the home and deliver a variety of access control options for the utmost in residential security."

Hot on the heels of Ingersoll Rand's Schlage Z-Link technolgy, but using the new Smartkey Bump Proof technology, this announcement signals a major game changer in the residential security products market.

According to the press release, "the lock will allow you to check door lock status, automatically allow you to arm or disarm your security system" (if connected) "and initiate customized scenes upon entry and exit. The lock offers true remote locking and unlocking features due to it's motorized deadbolt, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their locks, using either a Web-enabled device or their home automation system."

"Lock The Door From Virtually Anywhere"

Installation is simple as the new product replaces virtually any existing deadbolt application, uses AA batteries, making it completely wireless and eliminating the need for hardwiring. The lock even has the ability to receive automatic software updates and all wireless communication between devices remains secure using 128 bit encryption.

The primary difference between this new product and other competing brands, is the first time useability to actually operate the motorized deadbolt remotely using a cell phone, web-enabled mobile device, web-connected computer or a security system panel.

I believe this product will signal a significant shift in the dynamics of the home security market.

It will become fundamentally important for physical security products and services providers to update their education and skills, to offer consumers the best possible advantages.

Stay tuned for the imminent release of locations to purchase.

Crime Statistics Maryland Heights 8/14/09-9/13/09

The graphs to the left are another view of the statistics of crime reported by the Maryland Heights Police Department, in the last 30 days.

I find it interesting that traffic offences make up the largest share of police operations.

Perhaps it is high time for police departments to focus more on the other more violent types of crimes than on just traffic crimes.

Is it any wonder that many citizens identify police departments as glorified revenue raisers rather than physical and peace protection agencies?

The police departments, admittedly do a fairly reasonable job of policing the roads. Why? Because traffic citations add directly to local government and police department revenues.

When governments continue to increase funding for municipal police departments, this often does not impact the other areas of police funding.

It is disappointing when statistics like above, prove that police resources are directed more to revenue generating traffic offenses than to actively reducing or preventing crimes of theft, larceny, break and enter, sexual offenses, vehicle theft, robbery etc.

Perhaps it may be time for local governments and police departments to re-examine their priorities?

Concentrate on reducing the crime rate rather than generating multiple revenue streams.

Crime Statistics - Hazelwood 8/14/09-9/13/09

We present the Crime Statistics for the Hazelwood area reported by Hazelwood Police Department for the last month.

The breakdown is listed below.

You can now find out the exact statistics for your individual street (if your local police department releases that information, to this source), by typing your street name into the search bar on the sources website.

Break and Enter - 18

Robbery - 1

Theft - 148

Vehicle Theft - 11

Alarm Response - 97

Domestic Disturbance - 46

Missing Person Reports - 14

Trespass - 2

Weapons/Shots Fired -7

While we are primarily concerned with the increasing or decreasing rates of Alarm Responses, Thefts, Robberies and Break and Enters, the above lists include attendances by Hazelwood Police Department.

In referrence to Alarm Responses particularly, there were 97 occasions where Hazelwood Police Department attended as a result of a monitored alarm activation. This also indicates 97 invoices issued by the police for alarm responses. I wonder if alarm system installers and monitoring companies disclose that residents will receive a police invoice for services rendered, as an inclusion in their sales spiel to customers. I seriously doubt it.

Daring Raid On Apple Store

Below, you will see a news article about a daring raid on an Apple store, by 5 criminals who break in and ransack the store is 31 seconds. They got away with 23 Macbook Pro's, 14 IPhones and 9 IPod touches.

For products that will effectively prevent this type of break in, contact us.

MUL-T-LOCK CLIQ - Vibrated open

The transponder technology industry has progresses toward the introduction of Chip Keys for homes and offices now.

The industry is in it's infancy still but progress is starting to reduce the very high price for this unproven technology.

Assa-Abloy, the world's largest manufacturer of security locking products, including (the recently bumped and picked) Medeco and Mul-t-lock product lines, already introduced the Cliq product line to consumers.

Here is one reason why the technology is still infantile...

Obviously, it helps to have an existing key, but as such, it is not necessary as without a battery, the lock relies on a mechanical component that is easily defeated, as shown above.

On a $ for $ value proposition, Bilock is unbeatable in aesthetics, price and cross-hardware use.