High-Security Mechanical Locks: An Encyclopedic Reference

by Graham Pulford

High-Security Mechanical Locks comprehensively surveys and explains the highly technical area of high security locks in a way that is accessible to a wide audience. Well over 100 different locks are presented, organized into 6 basic types. Each chapter introduces the necessary concepts in a historical perspective and further categorizes the locks. This is followed by detailed 'how it works' descriptions with many pictures, diagrams and references. The descriptions are based on actual dissections of the real locks.The scope is limited to key operated mechanical locks, thus keyless combination locks and digital locks are not covered. The book does not deal with routine locksmithing topics such as installation and servicing of locks. The sensitive area of picking and bypassing of locks is dealt with only at a high level without giving detailed information that would be unacceptable in the wrong hands.

* Comprehensive coverage of over 100 different types of 19th and 20th century key-operated locks, unified in a simple classification scheme* Detailed operating principles - clear 'how it works' descriptions* Manipulation resistance rating for each lock on a scale of 1 to 5

616 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid reference, however it was kind of bloated, exploded views of locks that were early prototypes etc, stuff that wasn't really relevant to the topic, and completely overlooks automotive transponders,
It's a good reference if you just want to see what the kind of lock you've got,and how it works, but lacks information on creating master key systems, pin depths etc, it just lacks some really crucial info IMHO.