subject: Types Of Locks On Used Safes For Sale [print this page] There are a lot of factors to think about when considering used safes for sale, yet the one factor that often gets pushed aside is the kind of lock. There are two basic kinds of locks: electronic keypad locks and dial combination locks.
The electronic keypad is a relatively new convention on high security safes, having only been around for about twenty years. Although electronic keypad will generally be more expensive than dial combination locks, electronic keypad are the go-to choice for convenience. An electronic keypad could be a good choice if you open your safe several times a day and dont want the hassle of a dial lock.
Many electronic keypad locks will lock down after four consecutive incorrect attempts at the code. This will make the keypad inoperable for five minutes, depending on the brand. After this lockdown period, you will only be granted two more consecutive tries at the correct key code; otherwise, the keypad will shut down again.
Electronic keypads also use nine-volt batteries that can be easily replaced without the worry of losing memory. You can also easily change the code on an electronic keypad, should the original code be compromised. One of the strengths of the electronic keypad option is that you can choose the code.
The dial combination lock has been an old stand-by ever since the safe came into existence. There are several reasons why one might consider a dial lock over an electronic lock: for one, dial combinations are easily more affordable than electronic keypads.
Dial combination locks last a long time and you need not worry about replacing batteries in order to keep it functioning. In fact, dial combination locks have been around for nearly 150 years, and they still havent outstayed their welcome.
Although we have said that one of the strengths of the electronic keypad lies in choosing your own code, some may argue that one strength in the dial combination lock lies on the opposite side of the spectrum; having a dial combination that is operable by a totally random code will ensure that the code isnt personalized.
You can also keep this same code without the lock showing any wear or tear. You can turn the dial lock at any time without the worry of lockdown. However, a drawback to the dial lock comes into play whenever you want to change the code, as a locksmith would be required.
A few of the drawbacks of the dial combination lies in its archaic nature. Dial locks are often slow to unlock and open. Also, people with arthritis or shaky hands will likely find it difficult to unlock a safe with a dial lock.
Knowing about the key differences between electronic keypad locks and dial combination locks will assist you in finding the best option for your safe. In choosing a lock, determine which lock would be best suited for your circumstances. Ask yourself whether it would be worth a few extra bucks to spend on an electronic lock, or whether the old school dial combination lock would work just as well.
