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September 5, 2019

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)

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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.

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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,,,)

September 3, 2019

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?

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August 27, 2019

Closed Until September 3.

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

August 21, 2019

Safes Are The Logical Alternative To Weapons Safety And protecting All Residents And Citizens Without Altering Gun Laws.



As talks rage on in America about the Great Gun Debate #GreatGunDebate, perhaps educating Americans about gun safety might make a topical subject, worthy of inclusion in educational institutions and across wider society in general.

Americans really do not like being compared to other countries, especially when it comes to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The second amendment to the USA Consitution has repeatedly come under fire from many opponents to the basic right of all Americans, produced during a time in American history when possessing and carrying a gun was an almost necessary fact of life, due to all ranges of varmints, critters and (#RedCoats) others wanting to destroy the fabric of a burgeoning young nation.

I personally grew up, living in regions where firearm safety and security is/was a very important and vital aspect of society.

I fully support the individual right to choose for oneself. And this notion extends to not just firearms, but healthcare, abortion, religious freedoms among other pursuits.

A recent article in Inverse.com exposes the statistics about guns and suicide rates among Americans.
The article, "Controversial Approach To Gun Safety Links Gun Storage With Fewer Suicides" explains statistics  compiled through 2017 and published in 2018.

"The paper presents evidence that military personnel who might have had recent thought of death or self-harm, were significantly less likely than their peers, to keep firearms in their homes. But among those who did keep firearms in their homes, those with a history of such thoughts were only about half as likely to store their weapons safely"

In the survey, which involved data on 1,652 active-duty military personnel collected over 37 months, “safe storage” meant unloaded and locked up. Military personnel at high risk of self-harm were unlikely to store their weapons in this way.

The increasing amounts of shootings and mass murders in this country certainly identifies a mental health issue among a number of "supposedly" licensed and registered weapons owners and also the increasing numbers of non-registered and licensed weapons users. This argument augers well for governments to implement weapons storage ordinances,

Many locksmiths and safe manufacturers, distributors and resellers have deliberately trained in safe knowledge and product knowledge aimed at better protecting all residents from the nastiness of weapons theft, availability and ease to obtain.

Some countries require all weapons purchasers to store their weapons in government approved safes and cabinets, often with a separate lockable cabinet or drawer within, for the separate storage of ammunition.

Such ordinances contribute to the growth of the safe and security products industries, while providing basic protections for the general public, who can appreciate such rules aimed at protecting life.

While altering any constitutional amendment requires a constitutional convention, ratification by a majority of states and approvals of the justice system, the likelihood of such communal agreement in a timely and effective timeframe, is ambitious at best.

In the short term however, weapons owners can protect their investments, their families and their friends and acquaintances, by being pro-active and choosing to secure their property in high-security safes and security cabinets. Consulting your local professional locksmith is a great first step to learning about the wide range of products currently available to protect life and the lives of your fellow residents, while complying with the current laws and without changing or adding to existing weapons rules, laws and ordinances.

See the article in the source below.

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August 20, 2019

Gate - All-In-One Wifi Deadbolt



The world of Smart Locks, sees a new entrant to the market with an all-in-one product that allows for WiFi control, smart phone control, temporary user codes, video door bell and intercom, mechanical key operable all in one small and unique footprint that looks classy while maintaining a high level of security.

Gate is available from a range of suppliers, the product is priced at the upper end of the range of similar offerings.

The product is available in 3 distinct service plan options.

2-Year Premium Plus Service plan sells for $349. It includes 1 lock and 2 years unlimited Premium Plus Service which includes:


  • Receipt Of All Notifications
  • Real Time Video Streaming
  • Real Time 2-Way Audio
  • Remote Lock And Unlock
  • Unlimited Admin/Permanent Access Control
  • Unlimited Scheduled Access
  • 30 Day Video History
  • 30 Day Video Sharing
There is also a 1 year Premium Plan which is effectively identical to the Plus plan but only allows for 10 users on scheduled access and 5 days worth of video history storage and sharing.

The basic plan offers no scheduled access control and up to 4 permanent users, FREE.

It is an interesting idea I think. One that might meet certain users needs.

Personally, I am not enamored with many battery powered smart locks, because batteries fail at the most inopportune times and weathering (shifting door frames, house settling etc) is an all too common occurrence with todays changing climate,

August 7, 2019

Platinum Safes - A Unique Australian Safe Manufacturer And Distributor




We recently wrote an article about the Ross BLE Safe Lock Option, that we are seeing increased views of, thanks.

Today we are writing about another colleague and true professional safe manufacturer and distributor of some of the finest safes available in the Australian market, Platinum Safes.

We really have been impressed with this forward thinking company for using modern professional manufacturing techniques to create competitively priced safes that physically protect your cash, documents or jewelry.

The state of the economy today is prompting increasing numbers of people to prefer to keep their cash and valuables at home or the office as opposed to financial institutions, often because the ridiculously low interest rates, combined with fees, provide little to no return on investment. In fact, many financial institutions actually charge you a fee to access your own money.

Improved security options, like the products produced by Platinum Safes mean that you can expect super-high quality protection of your cash and valuables, within easy (and virtually) cost-less, easy reach.

The ages old "store cash under the mattress" idea is not a feasible and secure alternative to a impressive quality security protection container especially produced using high-quality locking products from KJ Ross and la Guard.

Competitive value at competitive prices with a wide dealer network across Australia. What more could you want?

For more details about their range of products, please view the source below.

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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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