Twenty Years Ago
Secura Key SK-ACP two-door controllers was the topic of an article by Jerry Levine. Wade Landrum reported on how Videx and Mul-T-Lock teamed up to offer a new series of cabinet locks operated by Videx electronics. Jerry Levine demonstrated how to install a Securitron MK series mortise keyswitch. Servicing Chrysler Accustar ignition locks for 1989 to 1992 were the subject of an article. Pat Olmstead, Von Duprin, introduced the new recessed Von Duprin exit devices. Security Lock Distributors was featured in an article on the many outstanding products and services they offer. A product showcase described some of the available products at the ISC East convention. James Glazier explained what is new in CCTV. Gale Johnson relived a history of Schlage wafer locks along with a list of every possible key code. A corresponding article by Wade Landrum introduced readers to the new Schlage Everest lock system. Locksmith Johns Grist reviewed Dispatch 2000, a business software program for locksmiths. Locksmith Kevin Moores serviced a La Gard Safegard Swingbolt lock.
Ten Years Ago
"It All Started With the Door" was our lead article explaining different hardware which can be used for enhancing, operating and securing door openings. Jerry Levine introduced the Schlage AD-Series, designed with an open architecture platform. Tim O'Leary outlined various tools required depending on the job at hand. Jerry Levine discussed variations available with HES V3 electric strikes. Another article by Jerry Levine outlined the RCI F1 series electric strikes. Tom Demont explained the fine points of what locksmiths can and can't do according to building codes. A still very valuable article was printed on ways to have your business more easily located on the internet. An article featured an instant-change cylinder system called SmartLOC. Where are they now? Arnie Goldman, IDN Hardware Sales, wrote of ways to increase business called a "Locksmith Survival Guide." Dick Zunkel explained ways to prevent personal injury lawsuits. Gale Johnson tested a new Kaba Ilco 044 key duplicator. Emily Pike interviewed 30 under 30 locksmith candidate P.J. Slauson.
It's Our Job
Television has been called a vast wasteland many times and some of the commercials prove it every time we turn on the TV. A commercial featuring a man sitting in an easy chair in the middle of traffic is one example. I do not remember the advertiser, probably because when that ad comes on I switch stations, considering it below my dignity. Could it be that commercial writers have run out of ideas?
In 1973 Master Lock ran a Super Bowl commercial titled "Tough Under Fire." A bullet was fired at one of their laminated padlocks during the commercial. The bullet penetrated the padlock and distorted the laminations but the shackle held firmly locked. Anybody who saw that commercial will probably remember it too and that is the point.
Durng a visit to Master Lock more than a decade ago, I was given a mounted sample of a similar Master padlock containing an embedded bullet. This mounted sample will always remain on my desk. After over 40 years it is still a constant reminder of why locksmiths exist: to protect the public with security products they can depend on.
