There are many different types of locks used for entryways.
If you are thinking about replacing them, you will want to choose the most secure type possible.
Among the many types of locks, dimple keys are said to be particularly high-security types.
In this article, we will explain such dimple keys in detail.
If you want to know what type of key is best, which manufacturer is best for a dimple key, or how to replace a key, please take a look at this article.
Since there are many different types of keys, it is important to know which type is currently installed.
First, let's look at the types of locks.
A pin cylinder is a key with a serrated line on one side only.
It has multiple pins in a row and is the most basic shape of a key.
The shape differs depending on the manufacturer, but GOAK pin cylinders are available in two types: one with six pins and one with seven pins.
The type with seven pins is recommended for front door locks because it is more secure than the other two types.
The type with only one pin is less expensive than the other, but its security is lower.
Also, many older types are not pick-proof, so replacing them will increase their security performance.
A disk cylinder is a key with serrated lines on both sides.
Since the tumblers are disc-shaped, they can be mass-produced at low cost.
For this reason, they are often used in public housing complexes built during the high economic growth period.
Not only was the product itself inexpensive, but it was also easy to make spare keys, so there are quite a few houses that use these locks.
However, the structure is easy to pick, so security is not high.
In fact, there have been many cases in which residences employing this key have been the victims of burglary.
As a result, this key has been discontinued.
The rotary disk cylinder is the successor to the disk cylinder.
A serrated line is randomly engraved on either side of the key.
When the correct key is inserted into the keyhole, the tumbler notch inside aligns with a part called the locking bar to open the lock.
Since the structure is more complex than that of a disk cylinder, the security performance is also much improved.
Duplication of keys is not as easy as with disc cylinders, but it is possible.
This type is becoming increasingly popular because it is easy to use when several keys are needed.
Since the price is not that high, it is known as a key with a good balance between cost performance and security.
Magnetic tumblers are straight keys with dents on them.
The number of dents can be one, four, or six.
The key and tumbler use magnets, which is a unique feature of the magnetic tumbler.
The risk of being picked is low because it is difficult for other locks to properly actuate the tumbler's magnets.
However, it is not a universal solution, as there are special tools to open the lock.
If a magnetic tumbler is used, we recommend replacing it.
Furthermore, if the strength of the magnet weakens, there is a risk that the lock will not open.
Magnetic tumblers, which have their fair share of disadvantages as well as advantages, have been discontinued and cannot be newly installed.
If the locks on your home or rental property are magnetic tumblers, consider changing to other locks to improve security performance.
Dimple cylinders are sometimes referred to as dimple keys.
Locks that are considered to have high security capabilities today basically use dimple cylinders.
Dimple means "dent" in English.
As the name implies, a straight key has dents of different sizes on both sides.
Since conventional dimple cylinders were created as a development of the pin cylinder, most products have two or more rows of pins.
This greatly reduces the risk of being picked.
Recently built houses and rental properties very often use dimple keys.
Because of their high level of security, they are used in a wide range of applications other than entrance doors, such as bicycle and safe locks.
Wave key cylinders, like dimple cylinders and magnetic tumblers, are straight locks.
However, wave key cylinders are not dented, but rather have grooves carved into them on the wave.
Because of its shape, it is sometimes called an engraved key.
The tumbler is held in place by a pin called a side bar, and the key will only open if the side bar engages with the correct key.
If they do not engage, the tumbler will not turn.
Like dimple keys, it has a low risk of being picked, making it one of the most well-known high-security cylinders.
Since this type of key is also used in cars, many people may have an image of it as a car key.
Among the many types of keys, dimple keys are said to have particularly high security.
Therefore, some people may be considering replacing their keys with dimple keys.
The following is a selection of products we recommend among dimple keys.
MIWA LOCK is one of the major key manufacturers in Japan.
Specializing in locks, MIWA LOCK handles several dimple keys.
Among dimple keys, the disc tumbler is a unique feature of MIWA LOCK.
The disk tumbler has a structure divided into an outer and inner tube, and the inner tube moves when the correct key is inserted.
If a different key is inserted, it will not move, making it impossible to open the lock.
Therefore, it can be said that the security performance is very high.
The keys handled by MIWA LOCK include the U9 cylinder, which is inexpensive but resistant to picking, the PR cylinder, which is excellent in terms of security and ease of use, the PR-J cylinder, which offers higher security than the PR cylinder, and the JN cylinder, which is available in five different grades depending on the installation location. The PR-J cylinder offers higher security than the PR cylinder and is easy to handle.
All of them have high security performance, so they are often candidates for lock replacement.
GOAL is the second largest manufacturer in Japan after MIWA LOCK.
GOAL products include case locks, hotel locks, automatic locks, security building components, push-pull locks, push-pull blank locks, lever handle locks, residential electric lock systems, locks with security switches, access control systems, ten-key systems, and interlock door systems. We have a wide range of products.
A typical item among the many products we offer is the V18 cylinder.
This key has 18 pins and 12 billion different key combinations.
Its unique security design, which is resistant to unauthorized opening such as picking, is attractive.
The high level of security has been proven by the UL security certification test and CP certification test in the U.S., so you can introduce this product with confidence.
The lower pin is specially treated with a special clicking device for durability.
The area around the key insertion slot has a large mortise shape.
This makes it possible to insert and remove the key smoothly, which is another unique feature of the V18 cylinder.
It is also easy to operate when the hand is dark.
Alpha is one of the most widely used key manufacturers in Japan.
We deal in dimple keys, which boast the world's highest level of security performance.
A particularly recommended key from Alpha is the FB lock.
The FB lock has a floating ball embedded in the tip of the key, making it difficult to duplicate or pick the key.
It is also a CP-C certified cylinder that offers greater security than other locks.
Another advantage of FB locks is the use of an anti-picking pin that reduces the risk of picking, and the fact that there are up to 1,300 different key variants.
There are many types to choose from depending on price and security features, so you can select the dimple key that meets your home or the rental property you own.
Dormakaba is a company created from the merger of the German company DORMA and the Swiss company KABA in 2015.
The company was formerly known as Nippon Kaba, but is now called Dolma Kaba Japan.
In addition to locks, the company also sells imported products such as security gates, hotel locks, and door hardware.
Known as a key manufacturer, Dormakaba Japan manufactures replacement dimple key cylinders, but not locks.
Among the keys that DOLMACABA Japan offers, Kaba star plus is recommended.
Kaba star plus is a dimple key with an owner registration system that allows only the person who owns the key to order a spare key.
The owner registration system can be installed with peace of mind, as the information of the person who owns the key is registered with Dolma Kaba Japan, making it impossible for a third party to illegally copy the key.
Marti Lock is a key manufacturer from Israel.
It has world-class technology.
Since Israel is an area with risks such as terrorism, the products are made to increase security in such an environment.
By employing double dimples and interactive pins, the locks are designed to prevent unauthorized opening.
As a high-security system, there are cases of its introduction in Japan as well.
It is not easy to make a duplicate key, as one must present three items: an ID card, owner's card, and the key itself.
However, from the perspective of security measures, it is very attractive.
WEST is a manufacturer that handles building hardware.
In addition to locks, the company also handles door handles.
The appeal of WEST is that it handles products that are particular about design.
This is suitable for those who want to incorporate items that are not only security conscious but also design oriented.
WEST's dimple keys are known for their resistance to picking and ease of operation.
The T-type 20-pin dimple cylinder uses as many as 20 highly institutionalized pins, including anti-picking pins, arranged in three directions (horizontal and vertical).
The number of key differences is approximately 2,935, making it difficult to duplicate keys.
In addition, it has the advantage of being compatible with a wide range of key plans.
Dimple keys are often recommended due to their high level of security.
Let's take a look at the advantages of using dimple keys.
First, the risk of being picked is low.
Picking is a common technique used by burglars in Japan.
A special tool called a tensioner and pick are inserted into the keyhole, and the cylinder is turned to open the lock.
Picking is known as a method of gaining entry into a room without breaking the lock, and is therefore difficult to notice.
To prevent burglary damage using picking, it is ten good to choose a type with a complicated keyhole interior.
In the case of dimple keys, the inside of the keyhole is more delicate when compared to other keys, so it takes more time to try to pick them.
However, please note that if the number of key differences is small, as in the case of bicycle keys, the risk of being broken through increases.
Since the number of key differences differs depending on the type, if you are considering replacing your key with a dimple key, consult with a contractor who has expertise in this field.
It is an ironclad rule to choose dimple keys for residential use.
Second, they are difficult to duplicate.
The shape of a dimple key is very complex.
The depth of the dents is so precise that a high level of skill is required to make a duplicate key.
It would be difficult for a third party to duplicate a dimple key for a burglar.
The high level of skill required makes the cost of duplicating a lost key very high.
Also, keep in mind that it will take time to complete.
Third, there are many variations.
A dimple key can be made into a different key by simply changing the shape of the dent.
In other words, the advantage of dimple keys is that they have more variations than other types of keys.
Some types require registration and cannot be duplicated without a number.
The large number of variations means that there are more ways to open the lock, so it cannot be opened easily.
Therefore, dimple keys are said to be superior in terms of security.
No matter how attractive a key is, the trouble is when you lose it, isn't it?
It is convenient to have a duplicate key in case you lose it.
In fact, many people probably have duplicate keys for their home keys.
So, can dimple keys be duplicated?
In fact, it is possible to duplicate dimple keys.
However, in some cases, they are difficult to duplicate because of their elaborate structure for enhanced security.
If there is a lack of skill or tools, it may not be possible to duplicate a key.
If you want to duplicate a dimple key, it is best to ask the manufacturer who made the key or a duplicating company such as a mail-order website.
In most cases, it takes two to four weeks from the time you request a duplicate key to its completion, so you should allow plenty of time for this consideration.
It is important to note that it is not possible to make a duplicate key from a duplicate key.
Dimple keys have a complex structure, and a small error is likely to make it impossible to unlock the door.
If you have lost your key and only have a duplicate key left, you will need to replace the lock installed on the door itself.
However, this will cost more than making a duplicate key, so be careful not to lose it.
The cost of duplicating a dimple key ranges from 2,000 yen to 4,000 yen.
The following are some precautions you should be aware of before having your dimple key duplicated.
The following are some of the precautions that must be taken when making a duplicate key: make sure that it is made from a genuine key and that it is a registered key.
Let's take a closer look at the details.
First of all, you must always make a key from a genuine key.
As mentioned earlier, dimple keys are made with a complicated structure to enhance security performance.
If you make a duplicate key from a genuine key, there is no problem, but if you make a duplicate key from a duplicate key, a minor misalignment will lead to a misalignment and possibly a major misalignment.
If a key with a large discrepancy is made, it may not be possible to open the door or the key may be stuck in the lock, despite the fact that it is a duplicate key.
Genuine keys have a manufacturer's serial number, so check to see if it is stamped on the key before making one from a genuine key.
Some dimple keys are registered.
Unlike regular keys, registered dimple keys are made differently.
In the case of registered keys, you must register as a user with the manufacturer or provide the property owner's information in order to have a duplicate key made.
If you have a security card or a form with instructions on how to make duplicate keys, keep it in a safe place.
The security card and key-copying instructions will be given to you when Dimple keys are installed.
Although it is possible to duplicate a dimple key, it may not be possible to duplicate a dimple key depending on the type of key you are using.
This is because dimple keys require a high level of skill and tools, and there are only a limited number of companies that can make duplicate keys.
If they are not skilled enough, there is a possibility that they will not accept your request, so it is advisable to check in advance whether they accept dimple key duplication.
When making duplicate dimple keys, we recommend that you make one more than the required number of keys.
This is not only to prevent loss, but also to avoid making more than necessary.
Many people make duplicate keys to prevent loss or for use by other family members.
However, making more duplicate keys than necessary makes it difficult to keep track of the keys.
For security reasons, we do not recommend duplicating more keys than necessary.
Also, if you use duplicate keys for everyday use and keep the original ones at home, you can rest assured that the original dimple keys will not wear out and will remain in good condition so that they can be duplicated again in case they wear out or get lost.
If the key to your rental property is a dimple key, you need to check with the landlord or management company before duplicating the key.
It is best to avoid making duplicate keys on your own, as this could lead to problems later on.
In some cases, the company may refuse to make duplicate keys, so please consult with them after carefully confirming the reason why duplicate keys are needed and the number of duplicate keys required.
Also, the landlord or management company may possess and manage duplicate keys, so in either case, it will be smoother to make an inquiry.
With the recent focus on DIY, many people are thinking about replacing their locks with ones of their own choice.
Many people may consider dimple keys when replacing locks.
Here are some tips on how to replace your locks.
You can replace dimple keys yourself.
The replacement procedure is as follows.
Remove the screws holding the plate on the side of the door, and remove the plate on the side of the door.
Remove the pin from the keyhole and remove the keyhole.
Install a new keyhole and insert the pin into the keyhole.
Fix the plate to the side of the door with screws.
Check the operation of locking and unlocking the door.
As you can see, the procedure is simple and can be easily replaced, even by a novice.
Anyone can easily remove and install the plate if the procedure is followed properly.
However, when replacing, care should be taken not to lose the plate, pins, screws, etc., as they are small parts.
Also, be sure to check the locking and unlocking operation at the end.
If you cannot lock and unlock the door properly during the operation check, it is highly likely that the door was not installed properly.
If this is the case, try again from the beginning.
If it is difficult to replace the lock by yourself, you may want to consider hiring a contractor to replace it for you.
If you can replace a dimple key by yourself, there is no problem. However, if you are not sure about the work, or if you want to replace the key as soon as possible, we recommend that you ask a contractor to do the work from the beginning.
Basically, replacing a dimple key is a simple procedure of removal and installation, but if you are not sure if you can do it by yourself, it is better not to do it.
This is because if you proceed with the removal and installation without being sure, it will not only take a long time, but you may also break the parts.
Dimple key components include small items such as plates, pins, and screws.
If there is a possibility that you will not be able to do it yourself and will end up hiring a contractor, it is safer to hire a contractor from the beginning.
If you need to replace a part quickly, it is also a good idea to hire a contractor from the start.
Especially if you are replacing the door yourself, you need to make preparations such as selecting the product and measuring the side of the door.
On the other hand, if you hire a contractor, you can leave the product selection and door measurements to the contractor.
Furthermore, by leaving the work to a professional, you can be sure that it will be completed more quickly than if you were to replace it yourself, since it will only take a short time.
Many contractors can replace dimple keys on the same day of your request.
Of course, you need to find out in advance whether it is possible to replace dimple keys, but if you want to replace them right away, it is a good idea to look for a company that can do it on the same day.
How much does it cost to replace a dimple key?
The following is a breakdown of the costs for replacing a dimple key by yourself and by a contractor.
The cost of replacing dimple keys by yourself depends on the type of key you choose.
For example, if you choose an inexpensive key, the cost will be about 1,000 yen. If you choose an expensive key with higher security features, the cost will be 10,000 to 20,000 yen, or even more.
You need to consider which key to install based on performance and budget.
If you hire a contractor, the installation cost will be added to the product price of the dimple key.
The installation cost varies depending on the contractor, but you should expect to pay between 10,000 yen and 50,000 yen.
In addition, the cost will vary greatly depending on the type of key to be used, so please consider that the cost will depend on the purchase cost of the main unit.
In addition, depending on the time you request for dimple key replacement, a surcharge may be added to the installation cost.
In some cases, the cost may exceed 50,000 yen, so it is safer to estimate a larger budget.
When choosing a lock replacement company, what points should we compare?
Especially in the case of locks made with high technology, such as dimple keys, some people may wonder if they need to choose a contractor who can handle them.
Here are some points to look for in order to choose such a locksmith.
The first thing to do is to check word of mouth.
While the same is true for other locksmiths as well, reviews will give you an idea of what customers think of the company.
Websites and comparison sites often have reviews of the key replacement companies you are considering.
There you will also find specific stories about the efficiency of the work, politeness, and responsiveness of the company.
If the reviews are not too positive or reputable, consider another lock replacement company.
However, in some cases, the website only dares to include good reviews and reputation.
It is important to check the reviews and reputation not only on the website but also on other comparison sites.
The next step is to check the track record of the company.
As with word of mouth and reputation, you can check the website for examples of cases and results that the lock replacement company has performed in the past.
The characteristic of a contractor with a large track record is that they have a large number of users.
If a contractor has a large number of users and many repeat customers, you can feel confident about hiring them.
If a contractor does not have a website that does not show their track record, the number of users, or examples of their work, it is difficult to know what kind of work they are doing.
To determine if the company is trustworthy, make sure to check if they have a track record of construction work.
The last thing to check is the price.
Most people will find out about the price before they go to a locksmith, but the fact is that the price structure should be easy to understand when choosing a locksmith.
For example, if the price list is easy to read and even a first-time visitor can grasp the approximate price, there is no problem.
However, it is not uncommon for a company to present an estimate that is difficult for a layman to understand, or to charge additional fees after the estimate is finalized.
A good lock replacement company will often provide a rough estimate of the cost for each type of lock.
In addition, the company also provides precautions and a clear indication in advance as to whether or not additional charges will be incurred.
Of course, it is unlikely that additional fees will be incurred after the estimate is finalized.
Whether the fee structure is easy to understand or not is also a point of comparison to determine whether the contractor is a good or bad one.
In this article, we have introduced the features and recommendations of dimple keys and their differences from other locks.
When it comes to home locks, many people may not have a good grasp of what type of key it is.
Dimple keys are keys made with high technology that are difficult to duplicate and have high security performance and resistance to picking.
Although there are some points to be aware of when making duplicate keys and how to replace them, they have many advantages among the various types of locks.
Why not consider these dimple keys when building a new house or when you need to replace keys?
You will surely be satisfied with the high security performance of dimple keys.