There is always a concern for security in the home and the work places and sometimes the more common locks available are not the right tools for the job. When needed, a more special type of protection high-security cylinder locks are a good choice.
High-security cylinder locks are made for use in many of the locks designed today by manufacturers. With particular features, such as the use of a special key to provide greater levels of control, to prevent those who would try and defeat it without the use of the original key these high-security cylinders are complete operating units which consist of keyway, shell, springs, tumbler, a plug and actuating device and has multiple defenses against drilling, picking or key impressioning. The following are a list and brief description of some of the high-security cylinder locks that are available for purchase and your security needs.
The Kaba Gemini is a very complicated lock to pick or make a key impression with. The cylinder in this lock is operated with a special key called a dimple key that has cuts which are made at precise angles. This cylinder can be used in key in knob locks, padlocks and deadbolt locks.
The CorKey System is a kit that in most cases turns common mechanical locks into a card operated access control system without having to change the lock and can be used as a replacement in most types of locks and top brands. The CorKey system will work with rim locks, deadbolts and key in knob locks. The key for the CorKey system is a magnetically-coded card and the locks can be opened by sliding the key into the slot at the top of the product's cylinder or knob.
A leading brand in the lock industry is Medeco for their cylinders and high-security lock products. Their high-security cylinder locks are made specifically to defend against lock picking, wrenching, hammering, impressioning or prying, and can be used with rim locks, deadbolt, key in knob and mortise locks.
Schlage offers the Primus Cylinder that is a precision, six pin high-security cylinder that is uses a special key exclusive only to this type. The Primus cylinder is so effective that it is used in government facilities, various industrial and home uses as well as public and private institutions. The key that is used controls four levels of security which require two locking mechanisms to work together.
When replacing cylinders or purchasing high-security locks make certain that they are all UL listed in order to ensure you are using the best items available.
While there are many differences between these cylinders and your local locksmith can not only explain these features, but also help you to determine which one is best for you, it is also best to conduct some research on your own. Always work with those most informed on these products as just purchasing them at stores might not provide the best in complete understanding. Use of a professional who carries/sells, installs and services these cylinders will give you a leg up in your security needs.
