Back Page, November 2012

Nov. 2, 2012

TWENTY YEARS AGO

Key machines were featured in the November 1992 issue. Ilco/Orion showed their KD75 automatic key blank feeder. David Parrott explained how to visually read key cuts. Bob Irmer, Scotsman Security Products,  cautioned readers to purchase name brands instead of copy-cat imitations. Doug Selby, Slide Lock Tool, showed methods for unlocking many GM models. Steve Young dispelled myths about the GM VATS pass-key system. Steve Sharpe introduced readers to the Pro-Lok Keymaster key punch machine. Dee Bucha interviewed Howard Johnsen from the Hans Johnsen Company. Ken Dunckel suggested ways to enter the profitable bank lock servicing arena.  Milt Wolferseder showed ways to open Fire Fyter safe cabinets. Phil Agius showed the features of the Framon Express semi-automatic key duplicator. Pat Olmstead described the historic Iroquois Theatre fire when 594 people perished in a fire. This led to the invention of the exit devices. The original device is often credited to the Vonnegut Hardware company using the name Von Duprin. Jim Adcock reported on the Jiffy SL120 probe light by AAA Products. Interesting comparisons were made between popular code-cutting machines.  ESP presented a trio of key duplication machines.

TEN YEARS AGO

Electromagnetic locks were featured in the November, 2002 issue. Jerry Levine reported on the installation of a Securitron Magnalock.  Tim O'Leary introduced the line of 101S Emlock products by Security Door Control (SDC).  Tim O'Leary also showed how to field-modify the Trine EN series electric strike products.  Jerry Levine wrote about keypad units available from Rutherford Controls.  Jerry Levine also showed the new remote release power mag kit from Alarm Lock.  Joy Skowron, Strattec Security, showed locksmiths the new tumblers required to service GM "Z" keyway locks.  Tom Gillespie suggested the Sprinter as a perfect van for locksmith work.  A.J. Hoffman offered the calculations for pinning an IC core override cylinder for the Schlage Cobra lock. Mary Pike wrote about her enterprise, a combination beauty salon and locksmith business in Granbury, Texas.  Donald Dennis explained the line of picks from Peterson Manufacturing. Where are they now?  Jeff Trepanier looked at various tools needed for repinning cylinders.  Jeff Trepanier also showed how to fit keys to a Chevrolet T6500 truck- actually a re-badged Isuzu.  Earl Halls offered ideas on how to sell safes.

NEW SPLIT KEYRING FROM FREEKey

Broken fingernails or jabs from a sharp object are the usual result whenever someone tries the frustrating task of separating the ends of a split keyring in order to remove or install a key.   Now there is a solution with the new FREEKey system from Exotac. 

FREEKey keyrings have a slight offset along their curvature.  Light pressure at the offset point moves the split end of the keyring outward, allowing keys to be easily installed or removed without effort.  A circle mark on FREEKey keyring indicates where to press.  FREEKey keyrings are made of stainless steel for strength and long life. 

FREEKey Item 02815 is a single keyring which can hold up to five keys. Item 02825 contains three additional individual smaller split rings and can hold more than five keys total.  To order FREEKeys: Contact Exotac at telephone 888-568-9347.