Back Page, May 2026
10 Years Ago
Residential Security was our cover focus in May 2016. Allan Colombo explained lock grades and advocated for a layered security approach. Tim O’Leary wrote an interesting article on setting up safe rooms in residential properties, primarily in new construction, featuring rugged doors and locks and video surveillance. O’Leary also wrote about entry-level video surveillance (at the time when doorbell cameras were entering the market). Gale Johnson investigated the Kwikset SmartKey system. In an installation article, an Alarm Lock Networx lock was installed onto a vertical rod exit device. Locksmith James Hanna provided a guide to outfitting your service van, focused on inventory and tools. Steve Young tested out the Little Black Box – Lockmasters’ reset tool for electronic safe locks. In our Automotive Supplement, Young wrote about servicing the 2016 Jeep Renegade, still a valuable guide for automotive locksmiths working on older Jeep models. STRATTEC provided a 2016 Auto Lock Guide. Keyline USA 884 Decryptor Ultegra and 884 Decryptor Mini transponder cloning machines were profiled.
20 Years Ago
Jerry Levine reported on Marks USA classroom intruder locks, still an important product today. Rick Duskiewicz reported on New York City photo-luminescent signage codes enacted after the World Trade Center disaster. Jerry Levine installed a Sargent 7500 interconnected lock system. Rod Oden demonstrated ways to service IC core lock cylinders when the control key is not available. Gale Johnson explained how wafer tumbler locks are master keyed. Tom Gillespie suggested how to control access with electric strikes. Tim O'Leary outlined the features of a Kaba E-Plex 2000 lockset. Levine assisted in the installation of a McKinney continuous hinge. The HIT-38 speed mortiser was the topic of an article. An informative article listed a programming chart for Ford P.A.T.S. keys. Brent Johnson, Auto Tech Security Systems, recommended selling automotive keyfob replacements. Kaba Ilco explained the virtues of their Triax A/T code machine. Steve Young described problems locksmith might have with indexing and laminated auto glass. Tim O’Leary provided answers on delayed egress requirements.
Coming in June: Service Van Interiors
Because ee had so many great entries to our 2026 van contest, we decided to feature exteriors this month and interior solutions in June. While the exteriors are cool (see pages 22-31 or www.locksmithledger.com/55365692 ), the interiors are where the work is done! Entries included amazing key storage, some unique power solutions and a full key duplication station. A former ambulance and a former Amazon delivery van were completely retrofitted as service vans. We are including a couple photos here and will have more extensive information in next month’s issue and online.