Upcoming Features

In the coming months we hope to bring you more information on products from the above series of manufacturers.

While we prefer not to stock quantities of these brands, we sell virtually all brands of locks, but custom order to our clients desires. Turn around can average 3-5 days.

Of course, you can also purchase many of the above product lines elsewhere, but rarely at an equally competitive price.

We also recommend Weslock and Weiser Products for equally competitive prices and hopefully will be able to bring more information about their various options, in the next few years.

Stay Tuned!

Meroni UFO

Here is another sensational product from Serrature Meroni.

This amazing product is designed with security in mind. The body, common to all applications, contain 4 steel drill-proof spheres that foil any attempt at forcing.

(from the site)

The UFO is unforceable and extremely versatile: by using one of the four kits of accessories available it can be installed to protect any environment both in the home and the workplace:

— 3381/A – Padlock kit for normal or sliding doors, ideal for the protection of gates and windows

— 3381/B – Protection kit with internal plate for the protection of entrance doors

— 3381/C – Universal defender protection kit for security doors

— 3381/GL – Glass door kit — high security without perforating the glass

UFO provides excellent protection, and can be used in conjunction with an existing lock system. It can also be used as a standalone lock, for example on gates or truck loading doors. The applicability of UFO is limited only by your imagination!

(source...)

Meroni - An Italian Legend (Now in USA)

Not many colleagues in the locksmith industry here in the USA will be familiar with Serrature Meroni products.

I have been exposed to the product line in Australia, many years ago and in Europe as well.

The line is incredibly advanced compared to similar products in it's genre.

Meroni has finally made an appearance in the USA, courtesy of the 33rd Annual Conference & Exposition of the Door & Hardware Institute, one of the most prestigious American Door Institutions, recently held in Boston, Ma.

Expect to see this modern, stylish and secure product line available in select retailers soon. (I'm hoping to be one too)

The market in the USA seems to be forever captivated by the simple key-in-knob entrance set. The entry of Serrature Meroni will only help to increase the security and quality of options that provide aesthetic value and modern appeal.

The products use an advanced system, whereby the latch mechanism is activated by a push button on the top of the handle. There is nothing to turn, making this excellent for arthritis sufferers or other physically challenged persons. The knobset is always fixed, which eliminates the "wrenching" effect that many other similar genre products suffer from.

They comply with ADA and fire and building codes automatically, there is no need to have a lever function.

They can be keyed to many standard keyways found in the United States.

(source...)

Lockwood Nexion - In The Field

Lockwood Nexion in the field.

Here is a field picture of a recent installation of the Lockwood Nexion door lock.
We wrote about it on December 8, 2009

The remote (1/20)

Indicator Status

Only available in Australia (currently)

(source...)

New CEO Master Locksmiths Association of Australia

Hot Of The Press!

The MLAA has just announced the appointment of their new CEO. Tony Duggan has been appointed CEO to take over mid-January from retiring CEO Alan Jones.

(source...)

Garage Shadow - Bluetooth Door Operator

Last year we talked about a new product soon to be released, enabling the use of bluetooth equipped mobile devices to operate your garage entry door.

Apparently, the company producing these wondrous contraptions, have extended their release date, to enable perfection. It is pointless to release a product that might contain bugs. We are fortunate that these guys have taken it upon themselves to correct their bugs prior to release.

I spoke with their sales department today and was informed that they will be releasing the updated and improved version at CES2010, in January and their tentative market release is due shortly thereafter.

Our previous article has generated a significant amount of traffic and interest. Below, you can see a video of the unit in operation.

Face Recognition Security - For Doors

I have been touting the use of biometric access control systems, especially residential fingerprint controlled door locks, for quite some time.

Recent experience installing some of these products has lead me to understand some of the pitfalls of the technology, especially age related syndromes that affect interface operation by elder users.

Here is a new product, recently released that adopts a variation in biometric access technology.

Facial recognition technology is still in it's infancy compared to other existing biometric systems (like fingerprints etc). Embrace the world of advanced time attendance systems. Beautifully designed to compliment any imaginable décor, this facial identification time attendance system recognizes faces in 3D by utilizing the internal dual sensor and dual camera that allows it to establish an incredible facial recognition algorithm in a fraction of a second.

At a Glance...

• Lock and unlocks doors
• Face recognition technology
• Record employee attendance
• Time keeping and data logging
• Export and Import from a TXT file
• Download recorded data via USB or TCP/IP
• Included software for detailed record keeping and analysis

(source...)

Email Marketing (About Time!)

After a number of years arguing with myself about email marketing and the pro's and con's, I decided that the time has arrived for me to modify my thinking and join the email marketing brigade.

Numerous customers have contacted me, requesting updates and product release notifications and until now, I have been reluctant to pursue email marketing due to the issues (primarily) of unsolicited email. I always have been an opponent of email marketing, because of the abuse of the email system when it comes to (that ugly word).

This is a new direction for me and as I explore these new waters, I hope you (my readers) will stick with me.

I decided to use Constant Contact, because they made the system sound painless and me being a novice in the computer systems arena, I wanted a simple easy to use general user interface.

If email marketing is a focus for you, try them, you might be pleasantly surprised.

Oh! (before I forget) Sign Up to receive updates, tips and tricks, that might help you to feel more secure.

Wireless Key Locator - FOFA

There are many and varied products available today, designed to help you locate your misplaced keys (and other items).

I purchased this one for myself and some customers, for it's simplicity of design, it's small, appropriate appearance and it's super competitive price.

I have had it, about a year now and it has certainly proven useful to me. The battery life is excellent and the range seems appropriate.

At home, my cable TV remote, recently decided to hide at the bottom of my sofa, without telling me (of course). But thanks to my FOFA and the easily attached slimline version, it was soon whistling it's location to me.

I think this is one excellent holiday season gift. I would love to sell them, but why when they are so inexpensive direct from the manufacturer?

$24.95

(source...)

Slim Line Patio Security Bolt

I have been an avid user of ADI Security Products, over the years. I find their excellent hardware, a most useful and functional product line. I have installed many of their products to many and varied applications

The Slim Line lockable bolt pictured here, is another of their latest products that expands their product line and provides another product for slimline extrusions on doors or windows. Often one has difficulty locating suitable products designed to secure narrow frames.

USES
- Shop Fronts
- Community Halls
- Schools
- Hotels
- Aluminium & Wooden Doors
- Sliding or Swinging

FEATURES
- Narrow Applications (32mm wide)
- Easier to Fit/Rekey - no Sellock Pin
- Reversible Pin for top of door application
- Smarter Styling
- Zinc Construction
- Classic Finishes

PACKAGING
- SL5 Lock Bolt
- 4 x 2½ x ¼ Snap-off bolts
- Allen Key
- Striker
- 2 x Keys
- Template
- Installation Instructions

DIMENSIONS
- Length: 144mm
- Width: 32mm
- Height: 64mm
- Weight: 1067g
- Throw: 45mm

(source...)

ADI Cap Lock

ADI Security Products are a well known Australian manufacturer of unique and high quality security products and accessories designed for the Australian market.

But their products are also sought after in many other countries as well, because their forward thinking and excellence in quality and design are virtually unsurpassed anywhere.

Their latest product is this simple yet functional product tailored to suit the tradesperson or camper market.

Locking up the tool tubes found on electrician, plumber and other technician vehicles has been awkward until now.

The ADI Cap Lock is a simple yet effective and inexpensive method to secure those tools that are too long to carry inside many vehicles.

We have previously discussed ADI products in recent articles, but ADI have recently upgraded their website and this is one of their sensational new products.

(source...)

New Search Button

We have added a new search tool to our website. In the upper left hand corner of each page you will see a search box like pictured here.

You are welcome to search almost any term related to our site, click the magnifying glass and all articles featuring your search term will be displayed.

This will make it substantially easier for you to find the specific information you are seeking.

Pocket Door Lock With Key UPDATE! December 09

News Flash!

We have confirmed delivery time for the Cowdroy P697 Pocket Door Lock With Key. Our exporter has informed us to expect arrival in USA (pre-customs) on Monday December 13, 2009.

Assuming all goes to plan (no more delays), we expect to be able to ship before Christmas.

Thanks to all our customers for your patience!

EDIT 12/22/09

Product Has Arrived and Is Available Now.

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

Edit 03/04/2011

New product has arrived, 20 units in satin chrome. First come first served. $105 + Shipping.

Master Truck Bed U-Lock

This is the Master Truck Bed U-Lock, so designed with SUV pick up truck in mind.

• Fits late model, full size Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford and Toyota pick up trucks
• No drill installation - lock fits into stake hole pocket or tie down locations in truck bed
• Hardened steel shackle and lock body resist cutting
• Keyway cover protects cylinder from corrosion
• Cylinder can be re-keyed to match other Master Lock products
• Lock cannot be removed from the truck when mounted

(source...)

Master Pro Series Padlocks

Master Pro Series padlocks are well known throughout the world as one of the finest examples of quality manufacturing. I have personally relied upon them and recommended them for very many years to customers with wide ranging applications.

Below is an exploded view of the concealed version. These padlocks are designed with security in mind. Many Master padlocks of this ilk, will withstand the force of a .44 magnum fired at close range.



Bilock Extreme Security Products, manufactures cylinders tailored purposely to fit in the Pro Series housings. This means that you can actually have one of the best quality padlocks available, combined with the world's first and oldest 100% bump proof and virtually pick proof pin tumbler system.

The added benefit of keys that are impossible to be duplicated, combined with the ability to mix and match product brands and hardware functions to enable keying alike, makes your choice of Bilock products with Master or Schlage or Arrow or Sargent or Yale or Corbin-Russwin and others, of unsurpassed value.

(source...)

Google directly targets spammers and fraudsters

Finally there is light at the end of the tunnel. Google is to be congratulated for devising a new method to clean up and level the advertising playing field.

Local search is one of the more important features of online search. Yet in recent years, spammers and fraudsters have penetrated the local search features of Google Maps, by loading their names with keywords (a.k.a. Keyword Stuffing) .

The quantity of complaints, and obviously the dwindling advertising revenues, have made the search engine leader wake up and take notice, because they have apparently been working hard behind the scenes to clean up Google Maps, by introducing Business Listing Quality Guidelines.

Effectively, these measures will put pave to the rediculous advertising tactics, employed by non-local service providers, who, for many years, have been misleading consumers, by advertising false address locations, postal box addresses, local telephone numbers etc, in attempt to deceive the consumer into believing they are calling a local merchant.

You have seen these tactics used by locksmiths too, for many years (many legitimate companies too). The Yellow Pages directories have previously (and I believe, some still do) printed advertisements by companies that list different telephone numbers, with suburb/city names included, yet those companies are not physically located there.

I for one, am glad that Google have taken the time and effort to clean up this messy area of advertising. For many years I have seen the proliferation of businesses, capitalising on these loopholes, to the detriment of legitimate goods and services providers.

Yes, some of these new policies may hurt the many legitimate businesses that felt it necessary to participate in the loophole schemes, but this newfound attitude of honesty in advertising will add certain credibility to the search engine leader and those companies that choose to comply.

The ethical will survive. The new millennium is upon us.

Special thanks to Larry Friburg of Legallocksmiths.com for pointing out this article.

Yale

Yale, by name, is one of, if not, the most well known name worldwide as a lock and key manufacturer.

Linus Yale Sr. was a successful inventor who specialized in locks and mechanical engineering, and who held eight patents for locks and another half dozen for threshing machines, sawmill head blocks, and millstone dressers. (source...)

Linus Yale, Jr. became more involved with his father’s lock company in 1858 after his father's death.

In 1851 Yale invented what he referred to as the “Yale Magic Infallible Bank Lock,” for safes and vaults. This design allowed the owner to change its combination and would also allow the key to secure the lock while being hidden away from the exterior of the door by a hardened steel plate, which covered the key-hole behind it.

Yale stated 9 peculiarities for his Yale Magic Infallible Bank Lock that separated it from its peers: [1] 1. Being without springs, there are none to fail; it is impossible to damage by fire, dampness, or neglect. The design rid itself of the vices of the springs that become rusty or softening by heat or moisture. 2. The lock has a head that is detached from its key-bits, thus leaving a space between the head and the key-hole, making it virtually impossible to be picked. 3. When the key is withdrawn, all print or record of its action is obliterated, and no tell-tale left for duplicate keys to be made 4. Powder proof. No powder can possible be introduced into the lock itself, which eliminates the threat of gunpowder explosions. 5. Permutation lock has the ability to rearrange new key combinations. 6. In the event of a lost key, a duplicate key can be set up to unlock the lock, and upon changing the arrangement of the lock, the lost key will be powerless to open the lock. 7. The portability of the key conveys a vast advantage over traditional bank locks’. 8. Every motion of the lock is derived from movement of the hands rather than elements beyond the operator’s control, such as dirt, rust, or memory. 9. The lock is not liable to get out of order, having been made by first class machinists. (source...)

Patented in 1863, the pin-tumbler design is also known as the cylinder design, and plays significant roles in today’s locks and safes. Yale had previously harbored the practical implementation of the tumbler lock for decades, and had sketched the idea in 1844. Yale was convinced that key holes in traditional locks made the locks susceptible to thieves who could use picks, gunpowder explosives, and heat to thwart the locks. This led him to employ permanent dial and shaft designs in his inventions, known as “combination locks” today. Yale’s best-known lock design, the cylinder pin-tumbler lock, utilized a key-operated lock concept first conceived in ancient Egypt over 4,000 years ago. (source...)

Today, the Yale name is synonomous with one of America's greatest institutions, Yale University, named for the great benefactor and relative Elihu Yale.

Yale, as a company has changed significantly in recent years. Not as widely known today for their lock manufacturing, they still are involved with locks and locking mechanisms.

Many of their lock products today, conform to the modern accepted aesthetic pleasing form and functions.

We hope to showcase some of their products in future articles.

Pictured above is a modern style of their one-sided deadbolt, manufactured to provide beauty, form, function and reliability.

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?

(source..)

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.

(source...)

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.

(source...)

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.

(source...)

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.

(source...)

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.

(source...)

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

(source...)

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

(source...)

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.

(source....)

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)

(Source...)

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.

(source...)

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.

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ServiceMagic is reaching millions of homeowners with their national ad campaign

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