Types of Tumbler Locks

In the lock world there are numerous types of tumbler locks that come in many shapes and sizes that work in and move in different ways. The three most basic designs of tumbler locks are the lever, pin and disc; however there is also the interchangeable core lock and the tubular lock, also called the tubular key lock.

While there are lever tumbler locks that are found on bank safe deposit boxes, in general the lever tumbler lock is found on a variety of objects offering lower levels of security like mail boxes, luggage, basic file boxes and children's toys and if they are used in places such as banks they are specially designed for this type of high security.

From the medium level of lock security is the disc tumbler lock. These can be found in use for items such as glove compartments and doors of some automobiles, desks and file cabinets. Since this lock is sometimes very difficult to pick it is sold in some cases as a high security lock. Invented in 1907 and manufactured by Abloy it is also know as the Abloy lock or in various parts of the world as the wafer tumbler lock, though unlike a wafer tumbler or pin tumbler lock respectively, the disc tumbler lock does not utilize springs.

Situated at a higher level of security is the pin tumbler lock. Almost all house locks and high security padlocks use pin tumbler cylinders as do many locks in prisons, some vehicle ignition and door locks also use pin tumblers. The first patent for a cylindrical pin tumbler lock was issued in 1848 and is incredibly similar to those in use today!

The interchangeable core lock (or IC) is can come in the form of many types of locks such as key in knob(s), deadbolt, padlock, desk lock, mortise lock and cabinet lock. A typical interchangeable core lock characteristic is a figure eight core that encases the springs and tumblers. In general, all locks with an interchangeable core can either be master keyed or use the same primary key.

There is another kind of tumbler lock that is considered quite extraordinary in the locksmith world called the tubular key lock (tubular lock). These locks are, due to their distinct shape and look, much more difficult to pick or defeat than the regular pin tumbler. The tubular key lock has tumbler that are set in a circular keyway and requires the use of a tubular, or round shaped key in order to properly align the tumblers. The tubular key lock can be found on laundry machines in laundromats, higher end security padlocks, a variety of vending machines and even bicycle locks.

As is evidenced there are quite a variety of locks to choose from when determining what type of tumbler lock best fits your needs for many different scenarios. From low levels of security to high most, if not all, of your needs can be met with the wide array and choice of tumbler locks.

Thank you for reading!For more info check out my Salt Lake City Locksmith website where hopefully you'll find the solution for all of your Locksmith needs! I look forward to answering any locksmith and security related inquiry you may have. Click here to get to the original Types of Tumbler Locks article location.

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