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March 6, 2011

Key Points To Consider For Key Locking A Clients Door

Choosing the suitable key lock for your door is a process that doesnt really require much thought however, sometimes it can be rather daunting to sort through the literally thousands of options in the marketplace.

Many customers choose to source their information online these days and there are many and varied opinions out there offering personal, sometimes biased opinions on what to choose.

For these reasons, I decided to write an article about the key points to consider when choosing the suitable lock for your chosen door.

Is the door a front or rear primary entrance?
- Many AHJ's (authorities having jurisdiction) require dwellings to comply to the international building code, when considering the form and function of a desired key locking product.
- A primary entrance is usually considered the feature point of entry into a dwelling.
- Authorities having jurisdiction are usually the local fire marshal or local government building inspector.

Is the door construction, metal, wood or another material?
- Different entrances can be built from different materials, sometimes due to fire regulations or distances to or from another entry point or due to the types of materials or objects stored within that entrance.
- There are different grades of hardware measured by ANSI (American National Standards Institute), that are designed to guide people to choosing the suitable quality product that meets or exceeds the customers desires, the building code bylaws, life safety codes or ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) bylaws. The three common grades are Grade 1 (high quality commercial use), Grade 2 (medium quality commercial and residential use) and Grade 3 (low quality residential use).

Aesthetic value or importance
- Matching the unique style, color or ambience of a doorway is sometimes an important consideration to customers, intent on maintaining a certain status quo of their chosen entrance/s. There are many differing options available to choose from and many hundreds of different manufacturers that make similar or slightly different variations of the same product.

Is the ability to limit who can duplicate keys of importance?
- Many customers are unaware who has a copy of their keys. Restricting or controlling who can be authorized to duplicate your keys can protect you from potential loss. A key that can be duplicated at any hardware or key cutter means that you cannot control access to your doors.
-Locksmiths have been producing key control products for many years that provide the consumer with a level of protection that other hardware suppliers cannot.

Locking Functions
- There are different functions provided by different models of locks, tailored to many discerning requests. Sometimes it is vital and important for a key lock to only be operated on the outside. Sometimes it is important to be operated from inside too. Sometimes a push or turn button is desired inside, that locks the outside handle. Sometimes a lock is requested that the key can only be withdrawn when locked.
- With so many variables, it is important that you explain your desire to the locksmith to allow them to offer suitable solutions.

French/Double Doors
- Securing double doors requires making the inactive leaf (one door) to be closed and secured prior to the active leaf being able to be locked. There are many choices of product designed to secure the inactive leaf, like surface mounted bolts, flush mounted bolts etc.

Door Frame Protection
- Securing a door with a key lock is often only half the battle against would be unauthorized users. In many cases, the actual door frame and jamb (where the door closes into) are constructed from light grade, thin materials that offer very little to no protection from kicking or ramming.
- Securing the hinge side of a door is sometimes of value too. Installing hinge bolts can prevent a door from being removed when locked after having the loose pin in the hinges withdrawn.

Bump Resistant or Pick Resistant Key Locks
- The increasing discussion online about the truth behind the perceived security of key locking systems has led many well known manufacturers to attempt to offer products tailored to combat these known covert entry techniques. Truth be told, there are very few products that can be considered bump or pick proof or even resistant.
- Whether or not lock bumping or lock picking is a consideration for the average customer, depends sometimes on the statistics of crime, measured by statisticians. It is very difficult, even for a trained forensic investigator to determine if a key lock has been bumped or picked, with absolute accuracy.
- Many authorities, who measure the statistics of crime, often find that instances of lock bumping or lock picking are far too few to measure accurately. Moreover, crime statistics tend to indicate that entrances being defeated are often the result of door frame failure (kicked or pried open), windows smashed or pried or doors being left unlocked.

In most places your trained local locksmith is often the best person to consult about suitable options tailored to your individual needs or desires. Most often a locksmith that is affiliated with a known professional organization, has proven credentials supporting their training.

Weeding the professionals from the wannabe's is sometimes a difficult task. Choosing your professional is accompanied by risks, but often the best recommendations are those of your neighbor or friend. Checkable references/testimonials from third party online agencies are often considered a worthwile guide to helping you choose your preferred vendor.



February 28, 2011

UFO by Meroni Serrature - Explanation

We previously posted about the UFO by Meroni and have seen heightened interest in this sensational product.

But I think it is fundamentally important for interested consumers to be aware that this product is essentially a lockable escutcheon as opposed to a stand alone product for operating a door mechanism.

We are including an exploded view diagram that should help to provide a better understanding of the purpose of the UFO for entrance door applications.



Yes, there are other applications for this product including automotive and gate and solid glass door situations however, essentially with all these applications, the UFO is designed to be operated from one side and one side only.

For the purpose of a primary entrance, I highly advise against using this product because it will not meet the approved building code or life safety codes as measured by The International Building Code, for safety and egress in residential or commercial dwellings.



NOTE: If you intend to make the actual key entry to your location better protected, this product is sensational. But it will mean you will need to carry both the UFO key and the actual room entry key to gain access to your secure location.

February 27, 2011

Addalock

Addalock is a modern interpretation of a product that was originally designed a significant number of years ago, to effectively add a degree of personal protection for concerned consumers.

The product is designed to be applied simply and easily to any swinging door that uses an entrance type latch.

Simple to install and perfect for travellers to add that little increase that can prevent potential home invasions while you are there.

February 26, 2011

Pennsylvania Is Not Immune To Locksmith Scam Companies Too


The State of Pennsylvania has recently filed a lawsuit against another company employing similar tactics to companies of similar ilk found all across the USA and some other countries as well.

It is unfortunate that authorities in this country are being found inept and incapable of enforcing protection for legitimate, qualified technicians and companies trained deliberately in the locksmithing profession or in their abilities to protect the consumer from these charlottans.

Cowbell - New Retro Door Bell Design

Dieter Volkers, a talented designer and inventor, has designed a unique product that is supposed to be a door knob.

I think it is probably more like a retro design door bell. It is made from a soft polymer material that has the feel and texture of a cows horn or other items found on a cow.

This product can be installed to any type of door and acts like a horn or door bell.

Yes it is a novelty product, but one where simplicity is employed to provide unique product thoughts that perhaps unusually minded consumers might take an interest in.



February 25, 2011

Different Entry Techniques

I just now returned from opening a house for a client who was locked out.

I have worked as a locksmith for almost 30 years now and having picked opening very many locks in this time, sometimes I encounter a lock that just won't cooperate.

I always try to find another method of entry prior to drilling the keyhole, like impressioning (making a key from outside), loiding a latch from outside where possible or in a worst case scenario, prying a window.

Tonite, the front and back doors would not pick. I spent at least 30 minutes trying to pick the locks, with no success. Eventually I decided to use a method of entry, that very few locksmiths I know of, will try.

I simply wedged the garage roller door in the middle at the top, opening a 1.5 inch gap and using a long strong wire, simply tripped the emergency release cord, unlocking the door allowing it to be raised easily.

I have found that the greater majority of people tend to leave the door between the garage and the house unlocked.

Unlocking the garage door is usually a simple task as it was tonite. It is an effective method of entry that virtually guarantees against damage.

It does reinforce my advice to homeowners to always make sure to lock that door before leaving the house, as you can be sure, that if we locksmiths know these easy entry methods, you can be assured that people of ill intent, also know them.

February 24, 2011

Stocking Product

I had a very interesting discussion with a long serving locksmith in St Louis yesterday, about stocking lock products and other hardware.

He indicated that the amount of stock he was continuing to keep in inventory is continuing to decrease annually, due to many consumers sourcing their product online, often substantially cheaper than he can sell them for.

In many cases, I have been lucky to upsell clients to new product, when called to attend a service call. But the primary reason I was able to sell the products, was because I had it on hand at the time.

Stocking many different product lines is difficult to please everybody, due to significant warehousing and retail prices. Most, if not all of our inventory is available online in some regard, elsewhere. This makes it increasingly difficult to compete in the marketplace.

While, you can purchase products elsewhere (and sometimes at more competitive prices), should you?

Often, specialist retailers like locksmiths, can only sell products at list price or similar due to competitive margins. But purchasing from a small retailer like a locksmith, often you will receive better warranty and service conditions.

If quality is a requisite for you, I suggest shopping at your local locksmith might be the better option.

Wouldnt you agree?

February 19, 2011

C&R Lock Service Ballwin, MO 63011

I usually refrain from alerting customers to businesses that are indirectly and directly my competition, however in the case of C&R Lock Service Inc. I find their willingness to be accomodating and supportive to me at times of extreme benefit.

Ron Schwarz, the owner is a long time experience and qualified tradesperson with a great many dedicated years providing service to the greater St Louis region.

Located in Ballwin, MO 63011, their shop is like a stalwart of the past. Still operated largely, computer free, the old fashioned way continues to offer friendly, personalized and professional services to customers who demand more from their trades services people.

Certainly many products are offered at the big box hardware stores, of which there 3 in very close proximity, but rarely will you find the attention to detail, the first class knowledge and experience of trained personnel or that obscure part to repair your product, rather than buying a new one.

I have personally known Ron for the last 5 years and work with him to service West County clients. I always recommend clients who call me, to visit his store for duplicate keys rather than pay for a service call from a mobile service like me. It is beneficial and cost effective to visit an established, experienced shop and operator who can advise and provide products and services that the unfriendly big box cannot.

One day, perhaps I too will have my own shopfront to offer services to passing trade. Until then I am very happy to recommend Ron as one of the most pleasant locksmith competitors in my area.

Home Advisor (formerly Service Magic) Testimonials And Sites That Recommend Us

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Testimonials

Danny was very professional and friendly at the same time. He not only gave me the quote and fixed the exterior door and explained his work. He was prompt and upfront about the work and did the work. He came in time took care of it on the same day. (Sasheethn K St Louis MO) June 2018d out problems but assured not urgent. Please feel free to have Danny pass out my number for my total experience review 314-351-5553

Charlie M. (St Louis, MO) November 2015


Danny was pleasure to meet and was very knowledgable. He explained several lock replacement options but I decided none of them were a good fit for a storm door, however, I did replace a lock on my entry door with a type of lock I had never seen before. I would highly recommend this company.
Patricia J (Bridgeton, MO) March 2014
They were prompt and showed up when he said he would show up. He knew his stuff. I had ordered new handles and he was honest enough to say that we don't need them that he can fix the doors and he did. Made me lock and unlock my doors to his satisfaction so that I knew what to do. Am very, very pleased with the service and cost.
Joyce K (Glencoe, MO) May 2015

Showed up on time for appointment. Was very knowledgeable about the project and offered a solution beyond what I asked to be done.
Stephen G (Chesterfield, MO) May 2015


Daniel was right on time, assessed the problems I had with two doors, made the repairs, and explained what caused the problems to begin with .... He is a "door expert" and a true professional. I highly recommend him.

Vince V (St. Louis MO) May, 2015




Danny was fabulous! He went over my concerns and he provided me with more than a fair quote. He was there when he said he was going to be there. I would highly recommend Danny. Cheers!
Denise S (Imperial, MO) May 8, 2014

Hired Danny to re-key locks on "new" house purchase. He advised to replace with new deadbolts & door knobs on 3 entry doors instead which I agreed with. All doors have 1 matching key & the safety of excellent quality product & workmanship. He also added new strike plate to door frame to complete project.. I recommend as your 1st & only call to a Locksmith.

Denise F (St. Louis, MO) April 3, 2014


Danny was very helpful in solving a pretty complex problem involving many lock.
Scott C (Eureka, MO) March 27, 2014




Needed patio door track to run smoothly. Arrived early, fixed door and explained what he was doing during repair. Quick and easy. Door works great, my wife will now speak to me, and I've become a better dancer.

Mike W. (Arnold/Oakville MO) July 2013


The owner spent a longtime with me on the phone helping diagnosis the problem. He was on-time, friendly and helped resolve my issue. I will definitely use him again!

Chris C (Lake St Louis, MO) July 2013


I had a very pleasant experience with Master Key Systems. They came out, did the job (which took longer than expected) and they did not change the price they quoted me. Now, I am not certain that it was a great value for the money because I don't have a comparison, but they did what they said, when they said, for the price they said. Enough said!!!

Antonio B (Saint Louis, Missouri) March 2013


Professional.. Upfront about charges. Fixed the sticky door within 20 minutes. I will recommend Master Key for exterior door issues.
Muthu R (Ballwin, MO) July 2012


Danny was a master craftsman, knowledgable and professional. I will be calling on him again in the future as well as passing on his services to friends and family.

Marsha L (Saint Louis, MO) July 2012


Danny was excellent! I called him on a Monday to fix a sliding glass door. He happened to have the exact part we needed (and it was not an easy find - we had looked everywhere) and he came over Tuesday evening. He stayed until 8:00 until the job was done, and cleaned up afterwards. He was courteous, professional, and efficient! I could not be happier!

Rachel P Maryland Heights, MO (July 2012)


He did an excellent job. Got there on time and quickly solved the issue. Was very pleasant and explained the situation and how to keep the door from sticking in the future. Would definitely use Master Key LLC again!

Neil F. (Saint Louis, MO) April 2012


Danny was very friendly and knowledgeable, although his apprentice seemed to do most of the work, Danny kept an eye on him to make sure it was done right. He had very reasonable pricing for re-keying.
Greg D (St Louis, MO) October 2011


He was extrememly fabulous and helpful and did a wonderful job. He was very professional.
Shannon M. (Arnold, MO) October 2011


Growing up spending so much of my time in Italy, the uniqueness of the Nova Classico left quite an impression on me. To be able to have and enjoy them in my own home here in the states is a nostalgic indulgence I'm enjoying beyond words. Thank you Danny for coordinating this transaction.

Joseph M (Chicago, IL) September 2011





great job. hired on the spot and he did job right then at great price

Ron B (Arnold, MO) July 2011







I searched the internet and found your services. I received three phone calls within several days. A service call was scheduled. Two gentlemen arrived promptly, analyzed the problem and fixed it.
James & Florenc M Saint Louis, MO July 2011

The repairman was on time and did an excellent job of fixing a very stubborn door lock. He was persistent and cleaned up the work area afterwards. I would use this service again.

Brenda F (Saint Peters, MO) June 2011


Danny at Master Key Systems has succeeded in making the purchasing of our Meroni door locks, from Italy, an absolute breeze. Even though I live in Australia with a 16hr time difference and was ordering door knobs from Italy that weren't in stock, the whole process was faultless. Danny was prompt and efficient with all his emails and made sure we had covered every possible variable so that the product I received was exactly as required. I would have no hesitation in recommending Danny for your next purchase.
Patrick Carr (Canberra, Australia)


Your product really helped because I needed to secure a nurse's station adjacent to a waiting room and needed a pocket door. Unfortunately, no real options were available to lock a pocket door effectively that would keep me compliant with HIPAA and secure an area that stores medical supplies. This was vitally important as this particular waiting room was for "waiting detox patients". Thank you very much.
Randall R The Fritz Clinic (Birmingham, Al) March 2011


Danny was very polite and knew what the problem was and how to fix it. He also gave me some information about other issues that could arise with my door and locks. Will hire again if I ever need that type of work done.
Jason M Imperial, MO March 2011




I had an exterior basement door that dragged when opening and closing. The hinges were not fitting properly and the door frame had shifted, probably due to the age of the house.The screwswould not go far enough into the wall without hitting stone...even using a special drill bit. Dan worked a long time drilling and sanding to shore up the door as best as possible. I know it will never be perfect. He could have easily sold me a new door and the same issue would happen. He was honest, thorough, and did an excellent job without charging me a fortune. I'm satisfied with the door now. If you want an honest, experienced man, Then Dan is the man

Roger M Saint Louis, MO March 2011


I purchased the Cowdroy P697 Pocket door lock with key over the internet. I emailed questions before my purchase and was provided with the answers quickly by return email. The purchase was quick and easy and the lock was shipped immediatly. Installation is quick and easy. But you do need to convert millimeters to inches (use the internet) in the installation instructions. And the lock looks great and works great. I will do business with them again. THANK YOU

Ed D (February, 2011)





Who Are We?





Welcome to Locks210.com.
This site is to inform about historical and modern approaches to Keys and Physical Security products and services.
Locks210.com, established in 2006, offers residents and businesses of St Louis Locksmith premium quality products and services. As the Premier Bilock Extreme Security Dealer in The Mid-West,
Our conveniently located workshop and service vehicles are uniquely designed to offer trade qualified, bonded, insured tradespeople with knowledge and experience spanning multiple countries and product lines.

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All products are sent in manufacturers condition.
All products are subject to sales tax where applicable.
All products are dispatched within 10 business days of remittance.
All products are subject to manufacturers warranties.
All products returned within 30 days, will be 95% refunded less shipping.
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