Last week on the forum, discussions ranged from technical updates to personal experiences in the field. Members delved into the updated specifications for storefront deadlatches, which sparked conversations on compliance and security enhancements. There was also a lively thread on preserving toolmarks, particularly in challenging weather conditions. A particularly engaging topic involved a locksmith’s unexpected confrontation during a job, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the work.
This Week’s Hot Topics
Updated specs for storefront deadlatches
Members are examining new compliance requirements and what this means for installations. Read more here
Handheld for OSDP/Wiegand and strike testing
Discussions on the best devices for testing access control systems are gaining traction. Read more here
Preserving toolmarks on a rain-soaked cylinder
Tips and techniques for maintaining evidence integrity in adverse conditions were shared. Read more here
UL 437 or key control
Members debated the merits of UL 437 standards versus key control practices. Read more here
When did UL add 2M
A historical look at changes to UL standards that has intrigued many. Read more here
1-inch vs 3/4-inch deadbolt throw
The community is weighing in on the pros and cons of different deadbolt throws. Read more here
Quick reset for VW deadlocks after low voltage
Practical solutions for dealing with voltage issues in VW deadlocks are being shared. Read more here
Camry accused me of theft mid-job
An intense story of a locksmith’s unexpected legal hurdle during a routine job. Read more here
Best boring jig for clean deadbolt installs
Locksmiths are sharing their top tools for ensuring precise installations. Read more here
Smart lock handoff that customers love
Ideas for delivering a seamless smart lock experience that impresses clients. Read more here
Wishing everyone a productive and safe week ahead. Keep sharing your experiences and expertise.
On the storefront deadlatches, I carry a 1/8-in feeler and a thin shim to verify latch engagement on tight gaps — saved me a callback when a sun-warped stile shifted. For ‘preserving toolmarks’, I snap a quick photo with a coin for scale and lay clear packing tape over the mark before the rain; press lightly so you don’t disturb the pattern. To head off the unexpected theft accusation, a before/after pic and a signed work order have been my cheap bodycam.
Quick tip: I keep a cheap phone macro clip and a pocket mirror to grab a timestamped shot of toolmarks before/after in bad weather — saved me from a ‘you scratched the stile’ accusation last week. For the updated storefront deadlatches, I’ll run a strip of blue tape on the edge and use a nylon spudger instead of a metal shim to check clearance, @bryant_lowe72. Small tradeoff: pull the tape before the final function test or you’ll under-report drag.
Had a client accuse me of pocketing a spare key once — . Since then I drop any pulled cylinders, screws, and loose keys into a tamper-evident bag, note the time/job on it, and hand it over before I touch the door; seals are about 10¢ each and it’s saved me when weather’s chaotic. Anyone else follow a simple “bag it, tag it” routine?
And when a client hints at a missing key, I shoot a 15‑second phone video panning the work area, count the loose keys and parts aloud, and state the job number for ‘chain of custody’ — faster than hunting files later… If they’re camera‑shy, I zip‑tie any found keys to the ticket with a numbered seal and hand them the little bento tray of screws; only downside is the clips eat storage, so I auto‑purge after 60 days.
I stick a strip of blue painter’s tape on the jamb, write “3 keys, 6 screws, 1 rim cyl” and get the client’s initials, then peel it onto the invoice — low‑tech but sticky proof; @jasonm64’s pan video pairs well, just adds a minute. Anyone using a tiny label printer for this?