Serious Training for Serious Locksmiths
Positional master keying is used in systems where split pins are not practical. For example, some dimple key systems and some magnetic key systems. The official Locksmith Dictionary from the LIST Council shows the following definition as of 05/2025.NOTE: This is not "rotating constant" master keying. positional master keying n. a method of master keying …
Is It BHMA Certified? We’ve all been there—looking for a reliable lock to solve a client’s problem. The packaging might claim; “Meets Grade 1”, “Built to comply with…”, or “Meets ANSI/BHMA A156.2, Grade 2 Standards.” But does it really? How can we know for sure? While manufacturers may conduct internal tests, actual certification requires independent testing. …
Using MOV’s for electric locks. Any time you have a wire coil, such as an electric strike, you need an MOV at the device. When the power is removed from an electric strike, the magnetic field around the coil collapses back into the coil, producing a high voltage surge. That surge can travel down the …
The UL label has an identification number (numbers and letters) that is unique to the manufacturer. The UL website can be searched to find the name of the manufacturer of the product. Here are the steps, in logical order. Copy down the number from the label. 1. Go to https://productiq.ulprospector.com/en (Searching using the “abridged site” …
Suppose your client sends you a picture of a key and you want to use the picture to make an original. With some locks with only 5 or 6 depths, Kwikset for example, you can just sight read the key and be very accurate. But when a lock has 10 depths, such as Schlage, the …
Locksmiths, lock manufacturers, and publications must agree on common terminology and definitions used in our industry. To that end, a volunteer group was formed in 1982 to work on this project. To date, approximately 1650 terms have been defined.Knowledge of many of those terms will be important to locksmiths studying for any of the PRP …
When I ran my locksmith business, I never felt the need to match prices with hardware stores. Whenever someone stopped into my shop looking for a padlock, I’d start by asking them if they would like it to match their home or office key. That’s the kind of service you can only get at a …