Lock Types

When you picture in your mind the traditional image of a key . . . or if you've seen a picture of an old-time lock, what you've probably seen is what is known as a warded lock. This is perhaps the oldest style of lock that still exists in common usage. To refresh your memory, the warded lock is the one shaped somewhat like a lightbulb: a rectangular on the buttom with a roundish bulb at the top.

A warded lock secures a door with the use of a series of obstructions inside (called "wards," hence the name). Only if those obstructions are pushed out of the way will the lock open. And the only thing that can push these obstructions out of the way is a key that has a notch corresponding to each of these wards. Once a notch has pushed each ward out of the way, the key will rotate freely, and open the door.

Generally, a warded lock is not as secure as a deadbolt or padlock. However, the amount of security it offers varies. If the warded lock has just one ward (or obstruction), or even two, it will not be as secure as one that has four or five. It is, therefore, recommended that, for maximum security, you look for one with a key that has several notches on it, as this will tell you that the lock itself has a corresponding number of obstructions. Even then, it is often wise to pair the lock with another, more secure one, such as the deadbolt. In this case, the warded lock adds a certain aesthetic value.

While we normally think of warded locks as being on doors, there are also some padlocks that utilize a warded-lock style. In this case, you should also determine how much security you need and decide if the number of wards offered by the padlock offers you the amount of security that your property requires.