Master Key Systems Explained - How To Design Your Master Key System

Today marks 10 years from when we wrote an article about Master Key Systems and we revise that post today and include it here for your pleasure.....


We wrote (November 25, 2009):

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. (source...)

Many of the same things we wrote about 10 years ago are still true today.

We here at Master Key Systems America LLC/ St Louis Locksmiths are proud of our continuing longevity in the locksmith trade, currently just a tad over 35 years in the business.

We are lucky enough to have worked on 4 different continents and been exposed to many differing types and styles of key systems, that all have their benefits (and issues) for users in their respective regions.

We are one of the leading Bilock Extreme Security Dealers in the USA, having offered Bilock for the last 14 years, locally,

We have worked with the product regularly since 1983, when we first entered the trade. The product was first made available about 5 years prior.

We explain to customers when designing their master key systems, that our preferred method of creating their system requires establishing a list/spreadheet of doors in their property that they want to operate by key.

We usually survey the premise and will often mark all keyed doors with an individual number often on the hinge or inside of the door frame.

This enables each door to be recorded individually. We will often include details like, hinge location/size/make, door hardware (type of lock), color, kickplate (if required), strike plate type etc.

This allows us to immediately know what the original door products are, if ever asked in future. And allows us to know immediately which keys operate which doors.

On the spreadsheet, we will list each door and it's number across the top of the graph, separated into columns.

We will list the names/employee number of key holders in the left side column.

We will then check the name under the corresponding door each person requires to access.

This simple method allows us to accurately design each system and account for all users.

We prefer to offer all our master key systems using Bilock because it is a restricted keyway that is protected from unauthorized duplication. This means no one can get a key copy without the written permission of the designated authorized signatory. This prevents too may keys being out there and not accounted for. No one can get another key made without the owner/manager's knowledge and permission.

We color code all our Bilock keys for simpler identification. We also emboss the system number, key number and issue number on each key, that means each key is an original and NOT a duplicate.

The method of designing a master key system is important to control access to areas required and dramatically improves the security of a premise.

We still like to recommend mechanical access control key systems because they are virtually maintenance free, require no reliance on batteries or electricity, are significantly cheaper than electronic products and are specifically designed to last 25+ years.

Should you wish to know how master key systems can benefit you and your security, feel free to contact us or your local legitimate locksmith for more personal detail. 

Statement on Fingerprint Recognition Issue

A little over 6 years ago we wrote an article about issues with the fingerprint sensor affecting Apple iPhones.

The article here explains some of the pitfalls of biometric fingerprint technology and the ease in which some biometric fingerprint scanners can be hacked.

Just yesterday, Samsung made us aware at MWC 2019 (Mobile World Conference) of a simple hack through their new flagship S10 Galaxy phone that defeats the security protocols embedded within.

Similarly to other older known issues with competing brands of fingerprint sensors, used in door locks, safes, vehicles, time clocks etc, the hack involves simply covering the phone screen with a cheap and widely sold screen protector.

The hack can occur when already enrolled fingerprints are stored in the system but by using a screen protector, the sensor becomes "smudged" leaving the product susceptible to virtually any fingerprint.

It has been well know throughout security industry circles (for a great many years) that many fingerprint scanners can be defeated by simply covering the sensor/scanner in clear sticky tape. This effectively stores the last used correct fingerprint and mimics it too easily, by just using any finger on a taped sensor.

Samsung released a statement about 15 hours ago that you can read in the source below.

Will you trust your home or office security or even the security of your cellphone to a vulnerable fingerprint sensor?

Apple decided to remove the fingerprint sensor from their products in subsequent models for the proven, significantly more secure facial recognition technology that is much harder to compromise.

(source...)

Revive - The King Of Lubricant Protection

Many consumers in America love buying American designed, produced and manufactured products, especially products designed to make their lives easier.

About a generation ago (20+ years) a product entered the market in the USA that dramatically altered the motor racing and machinery industries.

This week, we attended to a customer who required some door repairs at their home. The customer was the gentleman (product demonstrator) in the next few videos.

Being in the locksmith and door repair/service business, about 35 years now and having worked on 4 continents, I have used and sought many varying types of lubricants to assist in the longevity of moving parts in door locks, hinges, rollers, springs, hydraulic door closers etc. Many locksmiths and fellow door service professionals tend to use their own preferred types of lubricants, greases or oils that offer long term protections to their customers, their own machinery, vehicles etc.

Revive is a unique product manufactured right here in St Louis Missouri, that has proven itself to mechanics, engine machinists, tool makers, motor racing enthusiasts and many other tradespeople who have found that the product expertly increases the long term viability of their equipment, protects their engines and increases their fuel economy, while reducing the cost of repair and service.

The videos below, we have broken into 3 parts.

The first video demonstrates how the Revive product works and shows it being tested using a unique tester/demonstrator. (When we visited out client, he performed a test on my preferred lubricant that I have been using and recommending for 25 years+)

The second video continues the demonstration and has some testimonials from users of the product.

The third video displays an onsite demonstration in a machine shop/mechanic to show the benefits of Impact Grease with Revive














A few years back we had written some posts about another lubricant product Promagic Lubragel that has enjoyed many thousands of views and a stunning number of requests for more details. I know the patent holder and original manufacturer, who has not produced the product for a while now, but this product Revive, looks to me, to be an even better product.


For purchase options and further details about the products, check the source below...


(source...)

Door And Window Sensor - Not An Alarm

An interesting product that has merits in this IoT era is the Mirabella Door and Window Sensor.

This small but powerful product is specifically designed to inform when the link is broken. Unlike an alarm sensor, that triggers a siren and/or communications to an alarm monitoring company, this sensor is designed to communicate through your homes WiFi system to inform you that the door or window has been opened.

The obvious advantages of this are simple. Know immediately when your children arrive home. know immediately when a door or window is opened, when it typically shouldnt.

Simple. wireless security that is cost efficient and noiseless.

Locks and deadbolts keep your doors and windows secure, alarms are designed to inform that a condition is occurring and make a loud noise. Alarms do not protect, just inform. Sensors do the same thing without the inconvenience of an alarm or paying a monthly alarm monitoring contract.

The Mirabella Sensor is wireless, local, noiseless and connected, to keep you aware of conditions without the pain of false alarms, monthly monitoring fees, police attendance invoices for false alarms etc.

Wireless electronic security at a fraction of the cost of alarm systems (that effectively do the same thing - except cost a lot more)

(source...)

Airlock - Tire Pump And Bike Lock Merged

 Continuing on the bicycle lock subject.....
Here you can see a new product currently on Kickstarter that combines a typical bicycle air pump with a bike lock included all in the one product.

A great idea that not only respects the frame of your bike with its size and shape but also doubles to secure your bike when you are not riding it.

Pumping your tire from completely flat might take about 200 strokes to get it pressurised correctly but having the same product also be able to protect your bike from theft, seems like a no-brainer,

The few parts required to build this product contribute to an affordable cost and a low weight ratio while generally fitting in place of most bicycles existing air pump. The hardened cable doubles as the air tube and is locked by a secure keyed cylinder when using it for security.

Available through Kickstarter for only $50, get in now before it goes viral and skyrockets in price.

(source...)

Bicycle Locks - Comparison List

The information below is based on a reader-supported website where the site may earn affiliate commissions.

We here at Master Key do not earn anything from the information and present the content for informational purposes only.

You can view the complete details about the products in the source below.



According to Coolest-Gadgets, a reader supported website, the best bike locks of 2019 are as follows.

Best Overall: Onguard Brute
This U lock has been voted as the readers choice number one overall best U lock in its category for overall strength, security and ease of use.

Premium Choice: Abus Bordo

A clear choice for readers/users but probably not equal to the security of the Onguard Brute, is the Abus Bordo Folding Lock.

The is not a typical U lock as it folds up to a compact form and uses a dial combination mechanism.
Manufactured by leading German manufacturer Abus Security, the product is backed by the solid reputation of one of Europe's longest surviving security product manufacturers.

Foldylock is another variation on the Abus Bordo except that this one is key operated.
I decided to post this one as I really like the look of it compared to others in it's genre.
It is a more compact product that is also lightweight but extremely strong.
Here is what it looks like attached...

The compact yet nouveau take on a U lock appears well made and easily attached/stored on your bike when not in use. It's lightweight is a strong pro in my opinion that doesn't strain the weight of your bicycle and looks cool too.

Kryptonite bike locks have cemented their reputation for quality offerings backed by their significant longevity in the bike lock manufacturing business and their latest New York U-Lock is no exception.
They improved their designs to include 4-point locking and strengthened shackle and a heat resistant coating.

My personal favorite from this reader-contributed list is the Wearable Hip Lock.

This unique design is not attached to your bike while riding, meaning it doesnt get in the way like many other types of bike locks can.
Designed to wear around your waist, you can understand the definite advantages in such a product.

The product may be limited to only 44 inch waist lines, but this should encourage you to ride your bike more often (jk).

It is easily applied, see...

The close shackle padlock is designed to prevent bolt cutter attack. The shrouded body protects from smashing/grinding.


For more information on these and the other recommended products visit the source below.

(source,,,)

Rental Car - Fail (Locked Out)

A rather interesting article hit my desk this week that made my eyes and ears prick up.

In recent years, I have been posting here about my feelings regarding many of these modern day IoT (Internet of Things) products and services that i feel are rather insecure and problematic.

It is no secret that the IoT industry has made significant impacts on consumers, industry and life in general, but the industry is still in it's infancy and much to the dilemma of consumers, far too many issues and problems are arising with all this "connectivity".

The article from The Atlantic current affairs publication, describes the authors issue with their recent Zipcar rental car, where they drove into a region NOT covered by cellphone or wifi connectivity,

You see, for the Zipcar system to work, the vehicle requires to be in a "connected" locality.

The Zipcar system, provides a proximity card to access the vehicle or an app on your mobile phone, that allows you to open, enter and start the vehicle you are renting.

But what happens when you are no longer in a connectable location?

By being unable to communicate with the Zipcar technology hub, the renter was locked out of their vehicle. And even if they were able to unlock the vehicle, they would not be able to start it and drive away.

While some may perceive this to be a security blanket to protect the company from vehicle theft, the inconvenience to the renter is maximised. If you are in an inconvenient location, where cellphone access is non-existent or wifi connectivity doesnt exist, what do you do? If cellphone service is unavailable, how do you call for help?

Then, to make matter worse, the renter managed to find a landline to call Zipcar who nicely agreed to waive their fee, but suggested waiting for a tow truck or cab to pick them up. They were in a location where no cab would attend. The tow truck arrived after a while and towed them to an area where there was cellphone connectivity. They were able to unlock the vehicle but it would not start.

An episode that appears to be becoming commonplace in todays IoT connected world.


Another example also mentioned in the article describes, coincidentally a similar issue that happened to (curiously) an IoT expert. He rented a Zipcar to go to the J Paul Getty museum, parked in the underground garage and when he returned, his cellphone had no connectivity and consequently he couldnt operate his zipcar either.

The pitfalls of modern technology are becoming all too common today. Many consumers understand and appreciate the benefits that IoT technology can bring and this has made an impact in the consumer marketplace. But at what cost? When conventional non-connected technology that has worked flawlessly for generations is replaced by nouveau modern technology that has been rushed to market too soon before being tested adequately, perhaps we are better served by maintaining some of yesterdays proven technology that is usually cheaper and longer lasting and significantly easier to maintain.

In my business, technology is also seeing ineffiencies and pitfalls. I continue to sing the praises of mechanical security technology because it is so much cheaper and better quality than many electronic offerings.

With the impending economic doldrums the world may be facing shortly, are you going to rely on IoT technology and battery powered products that are (arguably) designed to fail in two years, or will you continue to benefit from mechanical technology that stands the test of time with low maintenance?

(source...)

Closed Until September 3.

Family commitments require us to close until September 3, We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for understanding.