Q: What shoud I do with the extra keys that came with my lock?
A: Take one of the new keys and put it in a safe place. There are several reasons for this:
- If the key you use regularly is lost or stolen, you have a spare.
- Keys wear with time, both from working in the lock and from contact with other objects in you pocket or purse. If you need additional copies, you will get a better reproduction if you use the unworn spare as the original.
Q: What are the numbers on my key?
A: There may be several different numbers / letters on a key. Often these numbers indicate the key code, especially if they are found on the bow (handle) of the key. It is a good idea to record these numbers and keep your notes in a safe place. Often, a new key can be obtained if you know the key number.
Numbers or letters near the blade of the key often indicate the key blank used.
Q. Is there a number on my lock that a thief could use to get a key made?
A. To my knowledge, none of the locks we sell have any markings on the lock that indicate the cut of the key. This is a good thing from a security standpoint, but doesn't help you if you loose your keys.......so be sure to write down the numbers off the keys keep it in a safe place.
Q. Do I need a pick-proof padlock?
A. Few thieves are skilled enough or willing to take the time to pick a padlock. Since they don't care about damage, thieves usually hammer, pry, or cut locks rather than trying to pick them.
If you are seriously concerned about picking, look for a lock featuring "spool" or "mushroom" pins. These locks, while not unpickable, make picking much harder.
Q. My padlock is exposed to the weather. What can I do to help keep it working?
A. A short burst of lubricant into the lock and latch areas every 6 months will go a long way towards keeping your padlock operating smoothly for many years. There is a lot of debate and many different opinions about what to use. Many like WD40 or light machine oil. I prefer a spray called TriFlow because it doesn't leave a film to collect dust.
Q. I have a Fulton Gorrilaguard coupler lock and need more keys. What are my options?
A. This is a frequent question and, since we don't sell the Fulton lock, I am certainly not an expert, but here is what I know.
- Some of these locks have flat keys and some have tubular keys.
- The tubular keys are pretty standard and most locksmiths should be able to cut extra keys.
- The flat keys are harder to find, but there are generic blanks that fit. Take the lock and key to a locksmith and hopefully they will be able to find a blank. Recently, I undertook this for a neighbor and it took me 3 locksmiths before one had a blank.
