What is Lock Snapping?
Lock snapping is a popular technique used by burglars and criminals, over the past couple of years, local crime and burglary statistics have seen an increase in break-ins due to this method. Lock snapping is where force is applied to the cylinder which snaps it in two. The outside part of cylinder can then be removed which exposes the locking mechanism. This then gives the burglar access to the locking mechanism and to your home.
This can be done by using a hammer or pliers and burglars can do this in a matter of seconds. It is a quick and simple method which does not require any skills or experience. This is probably why burglars use this method of entry because it is so quick and easy.
Locks that have overhanging cylinders and the euro cylinder locks that have not been tested and approved to SS312 Diamond or TS007 3* are at the highest risk of lock snapping. The best solution to prevent lock snapping is have anti snap locks fitted which No Shut Sure Lock in Bradford can help you with.
Anti-Snap Locks Explained
Anti-snap locks have been designed and tested to minimise and protect against the threat of lock snapping.
The anti-snap lock cylinders have been designed to withstand a huge amount of force compared to normal locks. A lot of the anti-snap locks that have been produced have a snap line cut into the body of the cylinder. This is known as a sacrificial snap line and this line snaps in two when force is applied. When this snaps, the locking mechanism stays intact. The locking mechanism is set into a recess at the back which make it harder to grip onto for a burglar.
What to Look for On an Anti-Snap Lock
When you are looking for an anti-snap lock, it is vital that you look for the TS007 Kitemark certification. This means the lock has been certified by the British Standards Institute (BSI). The TS007 uses a third-party certification which normally is the Kitemark and they contain a star rating of 1, 2 or 3 stars.
For a cylinder to receive a 3 star Sold Secure Diamond rating, it must have been tested well above the normal standards that are required for the TS007. This type of rating also means that it has been tested by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Which Are the Best Anti Snap Locks?
Based on reviews online and from customers themselves, we have listed a few of the most popular and secure locks which would provide the best security for your home and business.
AVOCET ABS High Security Euro Cylinder Anti Snap Lock, Sold Secure Diamond Standard – 3 Star
This Snap Secure Lock is the only lock on the market that has patented snap secure technology which can lock the central cam in place securely. The snap secure technology blocks any access to the door lock case, keeping your door securely locked.
This lock is snap safe and an anti-bump euro profile cylinder. It has also achieved the PAS 24 security test.
This lock comes with 3 keys per cylinder and a personal key card. Key copies cannot be made without this key card.
It has achieved the standards of both the Solid Secure Diamond Standard and theTS007 standard for maximum security.
To round this lock up, it has achieved the highest lock rating. It is resistant to picking, drilling, and bumping. It has secure anti snap features in place, and you cannot have keys cut without the key card.
AVOCET ABS HIGH SECURITY EURO CYLINDER KEYED ALIKE ANTI-SNAP LOCKS
Avocet have provided yet another great lock but slightly more expensive. This keyed alike lock has TS007 certification with a 3 Star rating and contains advanced snap security.
The locks provide all the same security and characteristics as the single Avocet ABS that we have talked about above. This lock meets the standards of Sold Secure Diamond grade cylinder and has the patented snap secure active cam technology and a secure key card.
The locks are keyed alike so all locks in the set will work from the same key and you can register your keys online.
45/50 NICKEL YALE SUPERIOR KEYED-ALIKE EURO CYLINDERS
These locks are high security euro profile cylinder locks which are ideal for double doors, front/back and porch/front doors. The locks can protect against Lock Snapping, Lock Bumping, Lock Picking, Plug Pulling, Lock Extraction and Lock Drilling.
They have two security features that help protect against lock snapping. It has superior strength with a solid construction that includes a hardened steel bar combined with sacrificial cuts.
The lock comes with high security keys which combines dimples and groove with 100,000 differs for top security. It is a keyed alike pair of locks which has the convenience of using a single key for both locks. It also has the British Standard Kitemark which is assurance of quality and peace of mind. This lock has a 1-star rating, but it should still provide excellent protection for you home.
YALE 3535 NKDHS ANTI SNAP LOCK, NICKEL
This lock is great if you are looking for a budget lock with great benefits. Unfortunately this lock has a 1-star TS007 rating compared to the 3-star rating of the Avocet lock.
This lock has snap defence, anti-bump, anti-pick, anti-drill, and anti-extraction features and has been manufactured to British Standard. This lock benefits from sacrificial cuts and hardened steel bar. It has anti-pick defence and includes four anti-pick pins at each end. Also, it is anti-bump resistance as it uses ‘v-pins’ so it can resist lock-bumping. This lock contains anti-drill shielding as it has anti-drill pins and balls.
So, if an intruder does manage to snap the cylinder, only the outer part will snap under force. This lock will provide a decent level of security for your home.
Still Confused?
When it comes to choosing an anti-snap lock, you need to look at the standards the euro cylinders contain. Is it the British Standard or Sold Secure Diamond Standard? And also, it might be worth checking with your insurance provider as some require you to have a certain standard of lock fitted.
If you are still confused by the different locks available and would like some more information and advice on the different lock types, then please call No Shut Sure Lock in Bradford. We will be happy to help you and we can advise you on the best security options and helping you to choose the best type of lock for your home. Call us on 07702 752458.
When it comes to our locksmith services in Bradford, we also cover Leeds and Huddersfield.