Unique Security Products and Specialty Locksmith Services

Locks210.com - St Louis Locksmiths for Greater St Louis Missouri
'Securing America - One Door At A Time'314 266 1533
'Keep It Yours... Lock Your Doors!'

October 20, 2017

Settlement In Ignition Lock Class Action Lawsuit - $120 Million In Damages Awarded

We have talked about the Ignition Lock Debacle, a few times over the last few years and the subject has sparked much discussion across industry and wider forums online, offline and through the media.

An article (in the source below) we were recently alerted to, explains that last Friday a settlement was reached between GM and 49 states attorneys-general (Arizona was the only state to not join the action).

The class-action suit brought by nearly all states was filed in reaction to GM's 2014 recall of nearly 9 million vehicles that had trouble with their ignition switches.

The lawsuit alleged that GM and high-level employees knew about the problem as early as 2004, but waited many years to recall it's vehicles, all the while marketing their vehicles as safe and reliable.

The $120 Miliion dollar settlement, apparently ends this case.

(source...)

According to the article, GM agreed to several terms:

  • Not represent that a motor vehicle is “safe” unless they have complied with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards applicable to the motor vehicle at issue.
  • Not represent that certified pre-owned vehicles that GM advertises are safe, have been repaired for safety issues, or have been subject to rigorous inspection, unless such vehicles are not subject to any open recalls relating to safety or have been repaired pursuant to such a recall.
  • Instruct its dealers that all applicable recall repairs must be completed before any GM motor vehicle sold in the U.S. and included in a recall is eligible for certification and, if there is a recall on any certified pre-owned vehicle sold in the U.S., the required repair must be completed before the vehicle is delivered to a customer.






October 19, 2017

Breaking News - August Lock Acquired By Assa-Abloy

Breaking News:

August Lock Co. acquired by Assa-Abloy.

In a shake up of the lock manufacturing industry, reports are surfacing about the August Lock Company being sold to the worlds largest lock product manufacturer Assa-Abloy.

The sum of purchase is as yet undisclosed and the expectation is that regulatory approval will happen before the end of the year.

The August company launched in August 2013 after a crowdfunded campaign by it's inventor Yves Behar. The company led by CEO Jason Johnson will continue to operate independently until fully absorbed by the Assa-Abloy behemoth.

Yale, one of Assa-Abloy's oldest purchases and the company who first patented the modern pin tumbler lock system back in 1865, have also manufactured some high quality, yet competitive priced "smart" lock products in recent years. Many of their offerings are fairly reasonable quality and we like to recommend their products for their longevity, ease of use and aesthetically pleasing properties.

August modified their product offerings in the last couple of years, adding complimentary products to their initial door lock line up.

August were one on the first in a large group of crowdfunded inventors, to go to market with their door lock. Initial bumps appeared, as is common with many electronic products today, but they seem to have dealt with the issues along the way, professionally and quickly. That is a sign of an engaged operation, passionate about their offerings and concerned with the customer experience.

Many of the other large lock product manufacturers have released wireless electronic lock products to compete in this continually expanding market and we expect to see a number of additional startups get swallowed by the major industry players, before long.

(source...)

October 17, 2017

KRACK - Dangerous WiFi Security Flaw Discovered. And It Affects ALL WiFi Devices



Breaking News - The above video made by a CNN reporter, explains a recently surfaced issue with WiFi.

WiFi is almost synonymous with anything Internet related today, in the the modern age of the Internet Of Things.

Almost every household in much of the civilized world has access to or uses some version of wireless computer connections, in everything from cellphones to laptop computers to desktop computers to wireless security systems including but not limited to door locks, alarm systems, lighting controls, thermostats or even your door bell.

We are also not immune to surfacing issues with wireless products and within this blog, we have also touted certain products that may use WiFi to assist in access control or security.

While we have reduced our penchant for recommending wireless security products in the last couple of years, we still will recommend some products and mostly those that are not WiFi connected.
We recently became aware of a security flaw in Bluetooth products too, which we wrote about last month.

We continue to sing the praises of mechanical security products, like physical door lock systems, often recommended and installed by professional locksmith technicians.

Products like our Bilock - Extreme Security Restricted Key Systems, that are 100% Bump Proof and virtually pick proof. They use unique color coded heads to easily identify different keys. Lock systems can be master-keyed easily and still offer premium quality security, when many competing brands actually reduce perceived security of your locks through master-keying. It is quite well known throughout the wider industry, as well as hobby groups, training institutions etc. that master-keyed lock cylinders actually reduce an access points security by using multiple pin stacks in cylinder chambers.

Bilock, does not. There is only one pin per chamber and no top pins. This makes bumping, physically impossible and picking virtually impossible.

There are other brands of mechanical lock and key systems that do offer comparative security, like Abloy Classic, Protec, Protec II and a few other non pin tumbler type systems too.

With the current day desire by many consumers to incorporate access control products into their lives, intending to reduce the need to hand out a key to their children, partners, residents and visitors, the increase in sales of wireless, battery powered lock products, alarm panels, remote controls continues to increase annually.

In another video, over at Fortune magazine, it explains that some software manufacturers have developed patches for current products already in the wider market......






But, even though we should feel somewhat thankful that the providers of our Internet products are proactive with their responses to these new found security issues,

What about the thousands of other products already out there that are vulnerable to this KRACK WiFi security flaw?

Sometimes, I think many of these security flaws are deliberately released, after consumers have already invested in the latest and greatest, you beaut gadget. In a rather crude attempt to get consumers to spend more money again to protect themselves.

As a locksmith, concerned with offering my customers premium quality products that actually provide long term protection, I continue to write articles explaining the reasoning behind mechanical physical security products, that STOP any chance of wireless security loopholes.
Many products that I and my fellow locksmiths continue to offer and rely on, are designed to protect you for the longer term, are significantly more competitively priced, designed to last considerably longer, while minimizing maintenance for the homeowner, resident or tenant of a dwelling.

(source...)


October 9, 2017

Breaking News - Rumors Abound that The National Locksmith Magazine Have Closed Down

Rumors abound that The National Locksmith are or have closing/closed down.

Their site continues to indicate about their October 2017 issue.

The report is at this time unsubstantiated.


EDIT: 10/17/17 We have received confirmation from sources within the ILA (Institutional Locksmiths Association) and ALOA (Associated Locksmiths Of America) that this rumor is no longer just a rumor, but indeed a fact.

Since 1929, The National Locksmith Magazine has been a stalwart rage for the wider locksmith industry across the world.

Succumbing to the Internet Age is not surprising anymore.


Many of the brand names and product manufacturers are sourcing their advertising elsewhere today and TNL is but one of a long list of current companies who have been unable to transit from print to electronic media.

While it is sad to see another industry stalwart disappear, we must thank them for the many years of service to the locksmith community and wish them the best in future endeavors.

New Award - We Enter The Hall Of Fame

10 years in a row, we have received the above award.
Now we enter their hall of fame.
We consider ourselves a best practise company. We endeavor to provide our clients with premium quality products and services at competitive costs.
Occasionally, we receive a little recognition, which keeps us optimistic for the future and our passion for this trade alive.

(source...)

September 22, 2017

New Award - Rank #2 In "Top Locksmith Blogs - Worldwide" - By Independent Organization

We are pleased to announce our recent recognition by an independent reviewer about our inclusion in their list of "Top 100 Locksmith Blogs In The World".

This independent site has no ties to any particular organization and judges its criteria on a number of factors, including longevity, number of comments, layout, regularity of posts, diction, readability, interest and variation of posts.

Click on the picture above to see this site and our #2 listing.

Thursday Night Is The Most Active Locksmith Call Night In Israel.

There is a website in Israel that promotes many different trades and offers FREE opportunities to tradespeople to advertise their offerings.

Unlike Home Advisor, Angies List, Thumbtack and other lead generation companies in the North American market, pro.co.il offer listings of tradespeople that consumers can call directly instead of being misled by middlemen lead generation companies hoping to profit off of your search. Many of the listed lead generation companies above tout their product as FREE to the consumer, however they continually fail to mention that their listed trades companies are actually competing for your business with sometimes hefty lead fees.

According to an article recently published, researchers determined that Thursday night is the busiest night for locksmith calls across Israel, with about a quarter of all locksmiths residing in and around the Tel Aviv area. Tel Aviv is the little countries largest city and naturally the busiest for locksmiths. Read the article in the source for more information.

The professional contact website (for locksmiths) is listed in the source below.

We also have a similar directory for locksmiths on offer through our A Locksmith In directory. We accept new applications from colleagues around the world.

(Source...)

Midas Touch - Fingerprint Padlock Is The Perfect Product For Retail Security Solutions

The Midas Touch - PL1000 and PL1000B is a new product released February 14, 2017, that is gaining interest.

Two versions have been released. One for regular use, which we will talk about in a moment, and the other for use on bicycles.

The product allows for up to 30 fingerprints to be recorded within and uses upgraded image sensors to improve the security levels therein.









Specifications:

Fingerprint Sensor :

  • Compliance with ANSI/INCIT 378 and ISO/IEC 19794-2
  • Spatial resolution : 508dpi
  • FAR : 1/100,000
  • FRR : 1.59%

Fingerprint Padlock :

  • Identified time : < 1sec
  • Fingerprint capacity : 30 sets
  • Battery type : Rechargeable Li-polymer battery
    Battery power : 4.2V 50mAh
  • Battery life : At least 1200 times (lock & unlock) per charge. At least 160 times (lock & unlock) at low battery level
  • Charging input : 5VDC @ 36mA (max), USB charge port for battery charging and emergency power
  • LED indicator/ Beep tone : for unlock, lock, fingerprint mismatching, enrollment mode, low battery, charging
  • Housing material : Zinc alloys
  • Dimension : 63 x 28 x 10 mm
  • Weight : 37g
  • Shackle tensile strength : 25 ~ 30Kg
  • Operating temperature : -10°C ~ 40°C
  • Protection rating : IP54
  • Certificate : CE , FCC
Fingerprint Recognition Algorithm Support
  • Good adaptability to dry, wet, or fuzzy finger
  • Repair the fractured fingerprints automatically
  • Great anti-deformation ability
  • Supporting 360 °Authentication
  • Self-learning during usage
  • ISO Standard: ANSI/INCIT 378 Compliant Extractor & Matcher
  • Compliant ISO/IEC 19794-2 fingerprint minutia standards.
  • Fingerprint Template Size < 1KB
  • Verification speed < 700 ms


We have been touting biometric security for many years now, but have been reluctant to put complete faith in many fingerprint products for s few reasons.
  1. Many customers desire to use fingerprint controlled devices outside. If weather and climate conditions are perfect, image sensors built into many fingerprint devices will operate flawlessly, but climate conditions today are far from perfect. In fact, many hardwired or battery powered access control products are severely affected by wet conditions, excessive humidity, wiring infrastructure shortfalls, sunlight, water and operational issues.
  2. As a consequence of some of the above issues, many fingerprint sensors require to have their sensitivity setting turned down significantly. to enable many users fingerprints to be easily recognized by the device. This directly reduces the perceived security of your product.

As mentioned above, we believe that this particular fingerprint operated padlock could be a sensational solution for retail security. I'm sure you have seen and continue to see retail security devices connected to clothing items and other products in department stores, boutiques, dress shops etc.
Using a fingerprint padlock will mean the ability to efficiently limit access to authorized staff and not have to worry about lost keys or access cards or shared combinations.

Just remember, if you want your product to last and operate effectively, use it indoors.

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.

Shipping and Returns

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.
Prices are subject to change without notice.
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