The locking system implies a high responsibility. Inexperienced owners of metal storages, when choosing a locking mechanism, first of all pay attention to its type, which is a mistake. There are indeed many attractive modern models with innovative operating principles on the market. But it is far from always appropriate to evaluate safe locks from the point of view of the mechanics of functioning. Much more important is the class of the device, which directly affects the reliability of the system, its burglary resistance and fault tolerance. However, you should also have an idea about the main classifications.

Basic types of safe locks

At the moment, the most common are classic key, code and biometric devices. The advantages of key models include low cost and ease of use. However, this is not the best safe-type lock, if we evaluate it according to reliability criteria. Code systems, in turn, are of two types - mechanical and electronic. Accordingly, in the first case, the secret is triggered depending on the combination of physical elements dialed, and in the second, a digital code is read. The mechanical reliability of such systems corresponds to the key mechanisms, but the code system still assumes a higher degree of protection from bypassing the secret of the system.

As for biometric devices, they work on the principle of user identification by unique individual parameters. This can be, for example, a sensory determination of the conformity of the characteristics of the retina or fingerprint to the embedded sample. True, biometric safe locks are much more expensive than traditional systems.

Mechanical and electronic models - which is better?

The gradual move away from mechanics in the lock segment has its own logic. Firstly, this is due to a higher level of security. For example, electronic models practically do not require physical keys. That is, the owner does not have to think about additional storage places as well. Secondly, electronics is always multifunctional and flexible in operation. The same combination safe locks of this type can be programmed for different modes of operation depending on security requirements. But despite these advantages, mechanical devices remain popular. They are beneficial in that they do not need a constant power supply, that is, they are completely autonomous and independent of the mains. There is another advantage to mechanical locks. Of course, they can fail as a result of breakdowns of the internal filling, but electronic models also have the possibility of a software system malfunction, which entails additional risks.

Types of key locks

In the segment of key models, lever and cylindrical modifications are most widely used. They differ in the mechanical principle of operation, which as a result implies operational features. The strengths of lever mechanisms include resistance to force breaking and the use of master keys, the presence of false grooves and, in general, a high degree of reliability. Cylindrical safe locks are less attractive in terms of reliability. This option is mechanically just as strong, but the locking system itself is not as secure against hacking as compared to its lever counterparts. On the other hand, they are easy to replace, cheaper and easier to maintain.

Classes of safe locks

To separate safe locks by class, it is used letter marking. The belonging of a structure to one or another category is determined by the ability of the mechanism to resist various kinds of influences. Yes, classes entry level A and B provide protection against a mechanical tool, and as the level increases, other means of influence are added to these threats. For example, in class C, the resistance of the device to a thermal tool is already assumed. The most reliable safe locks for safes are marked with the letter D, which confirms the ability of the mechanism to withstand strong electromagnetic fields as well. What else is important to consider, each degree of protection is supposed to have its own resource endurance. In other words, class A and D models are capable of protecting the safe from mechanical and power tools, but the critical impact cycles will differ significantly.

Nuances of operation

Depending on the type of lock, different ways their settings and controls. Traditional mechanical devices are almost free from auxiliary adjustments and usually operate in 1-2 modes of operation. Electronic devices, as already mentioned, require configuration, and in different ways. But in both cases, it is assumed that measures are taken to maintenance. Usually safe locks are repaired due to excessive blockages and in some cases can be done by improvised means by disassembling and cleaning internal elements. Electronic models are more prone to negative impacts moisture and dust, so you should initially protect the place of operation of the safe from such factors.

Conclusion

The products of Elbor, Guardian and Cerberus enjoy the greatest confidence among specialists in this field. Under these brands, high-quality, technological, functional and at the same time expensive models come out. For example, in the lines of these manufacturers, you can find a safe lock on a lever-type door that costs about 10-12 thousand rubles, which will also protect the metal block of the vault. The owners of mechanisms from the companies "Granit", "Sapphire" and "Basalt" also point to worthy technical and physical qualities of products, but at the same time they note more affordable prices. In general, the Russian segment of locking devices deserves attention from the most different groups consumers.

Safes and furniture manufactured by Promet are equipped with the following types of locks:

-Key cylinder type locks(pin and frame)
The carrier of code information for this lock is a key whose variable profile defines a unique code combination.

- Key locks of lever type
The carrier of code information for this type of lock is a key with protruding barbs, the variable profile of which defines a unique code combination.

-Mechanical combination locks
The carrier of code information for this type of lock are code disks, the combination of which is determined by the location of the code slots and the relative position of the disks relative to each other.
Locks of this type can, in turn, be divided into two groups:

-Combination locks without the ability to change the combination. The code combination of the lock is set during its manufacture, and cannot be changed by the user during operation.

-Combination locks with the ability to change the combination.

-Electronic locks
The carrier of code information for this type of lock is a code combination consisting of an ordered set of code values ​​(numbers, letters, symbols) entered by the user from the keyboard.

All the types of locks listed above can also be divided into classes of resistance to criminal opening and burglary. The stability class of the lock is set according to the results of tests for compliance with the requirements of standards, for example, Russian GOST R 51053-97 or European VdS / ENV1300

Key lock EURO-LOCKS

Cylinder lock(frame), designed for direct locking or drive locking bolts.
- Number of code elements (frames) - 8;
- The maximum possible number of key combinations - 2000

Key lock MAUER lever type

Lever key lock, is designed for direct locking or drive locking bolts of the safe in three directions.
-Has certificates of conformity: European class VdS Cl.1 and Russian GOST class A.
-Number of code elements (suvald) - 8;
-Maximum possible number of combinations - 280000;

Mechanical combination lock ROYAL

Combination lock, without the ability to change the combination. The code combination is set by the location of the code grooves and the driving protrusions on the surface of the disks. The lock is designed to block the locking system of the safe.

-The maximum possible number of lock combinations is 500,000

LaGard Mechanical Combination Lock

Mechanical code lock, with the ability to change the code combination. The code combination is set by the location of the code disks on the drive sleeve, connected to the disk due to the friction clutch, which is opened when the code is changed with a special key.
-Has certificates of conformity: to the European class VdS Cl.1.
- Number of code elements (code disks) - 3;

MAUER electronic combination lock

Electronic code lock. The drive of the locking crossbars of the safe is carried out due to their movement from the handle of the lock. Locking can be done in 3 directions.
-The maximum possible number of lock combinations is 1000000.
- Has certificates of conformity: European class VdS Cl.1, and Russian GOST class A.
-6-digit master code and user code.
-The lock has a lock mode, which is activated when you try to select a code.
- Programming of all functions of the lock is made from the keyboard.
(carried out only in the position of the lock - open).
- Powered by one 9V element.

In most cases, according to the method of opening, locks are divided into key, coded mechanical and coded electronic (although from an engineering point of view, a key is also a code carrier). If we talk about locks that have a certificate of conformity, then within the same class, all of the listed types of locks have similar characteristics. The differences relate more to the convenience of their operation. Therefore, there can be no universal recipes of choice. Key locks are cheaper and less prone to breakage due to improper handling - these are the "pluses". "Cons" - the key can be lost, or an unaccounted copy can be made from it. Combination mechanical locks have the advantages of key locks, but are somewhat more expensive and difficult to use - an error of ½ division when turning the dial is perceived as entering the wrong code. Electronic combination locks are even more expensive, but exceptionally easy to use. It is also necessary to remember that if you forgot the code, or the employee who knew him quit, then an emergency opening may cost more than a safe. Conclusion - in each case, the choice of the method of locking the safe must be chosen individually.

Any safe lock must meet two basic requirements - to provide high level secrecy when unlocking the bolt mechanism and work flawlessly for a long time. However, modern locks may have additional features that open up new possibilities for using safes. Let's briefly list some little-known options:

• key locks may have a recoding mechanism for a new set of keys. In this case, when changing the user or after losing the key, there is no need to replace the lock;
• the lock can be equipped with a time delay system when opening. Information about this must be placed in a conspicuous place. This function protects the user - it is useless to attack a person who cannot open the safe;
• coded electronic locks can block the locking mechanism for a certain period of time after entering the code incorrectly three times - protection against code selection;
• combination electronic locks can be opened by several combinations at the same time. This allows the owner of the master code to allow or deny the opening of the safe to the owners of the subordinate codes. In addition, if the lock is equipped with a display, the owner of the master code can check who (what code) and when (date and time) opened the safe earlier.

  The list of additional features of locks does not end there - locks can transmit information to guards about opening under duress; can be connected to alarms and computer network etc. But this is a topic for a separate discussion.

About opening safes door locks there are many legends. For example, they talk about the bear cubs of the past, capable of unlocking a lock of any complexity with a hairpin in a matter of minutes. In fact, a lock, say, of the thirties, a modern pro will also instantly break open with a pair of pins. And with the proper equipment, he will also open an ultra-modern safe with an electronic code.

An element of a door opened by thieves with the help of a so-called spear knife is an exhibit from the collection of our consultants (above). Manufacturers of steel doors sometimes "cheat": the door seems reliable, but in fact the first layer of metal is thin.

Let's debunk a few myths right now. There are no and cannot be people with a criminal past among autopsy masters, since crystal honesty is one of the most important requirements for the profession. Companies that specialize in opening and installing locks and safes most often do not hire new employees at all, making do with a team formed from the very beginning. A beginner is almost impossible to check thoroughly, and trust in this case is very important. In the profession most often come from related specialties. For example, the team of Zamok 911, our consultants, was formed while working in the rescue service. They often had to open the doors there - and the rescuers, starting their own business, expanded the scope of their skills.

An element of the door opened by thieves with the help of the so-called spear knife is an exhibit from the collection of our consultants. Manufacturers of steel doors sometimes "cheat": the door seems reliable, but in fact the first layer of metal is thin.

Second important point: any door, any safe is designed to delay the burglar, not stop him. Because there are no means against a professional and cannot be. Unbreakable safes do not exist in principle. The only question is how long the break-in will take, whether it will be carried out with or without damage to the lock. Naturally, the craftsmen always strive for a “clean”, without damage, autopsy.

What is a safe?

In Russia, the concepts of “safe” and “fireproof cabinet” (which, in general, can be called a fireproof safe) are often confused. Moreover, the products of many foreign firms, which were originally cabinets, are sold here under the guise of safes. A person thinks that he is buying something suitable for storing his papers and valuables, but in fact the cabinet opens with two paper clips in half a minute. The bottom line is that there are no requirements for fireproof cabinets regarding the complexity of opening. It's just furniture, even if it's steel and fireproof.

But the device of safes and their locks is regulated by a number of regulatory documents. Depending on the document (Russian GOST R50862-2005, German VDMA 24992, etc.), safes are divided into a number of classes according to resistance to burglary. For example, European standards divide safes into five classes (and several subclasses), Russian ones into ten classes. All elements of the safe must correspond to the highest, fifth class - both the walls and the door, and, most importantly, the locks. If you put locks that do not correspond to the type on a safe made according to the fifth grade (or install them incorrectly, which also often happens), it immediately loses its resistance to breaking. In addition, you always need to look at what standard the safe is checked for. And then he may be “eighth grade” in malice resistance, but no one knows what this figure corresponds to in reality.

Safe locks can be divided into four types: key, mechanical code, electronic code and exotic (biometric, magnetic, etc.). Oleg Shalashov, an employee of the Zamok 911 company, says: “In general, there are no regularities in terms of complexity. There are very complex keys, there are codes that can be opened in a few minutes. However, the average opening time is more or less known. It takes a professional about 15 minutes for a key lock, and about two hours for a code lock without any equipment, only with the help of hands. With equipment, of course, faster. By the way, a lot depends on the location of the safe. If you can get close to it from any side, this greatly simplifies the process. And once the masters had to work with a safe installed ... behind the toilet. Despite the simplicity of the design, I had to work hard.

In Europe and the USA, there are a number of companies that manufacture opening equipment, such as Wendt, Intralock, Steelman or Lockmasters. In fact, this is an eternal race in a vicious circle: some companies make safes, others make tools for opening them, then the first make even more secure safes, and the second make even more serious tools, etc. There is no such equipment on the free market. It is sold only to companies or craftsmen licensed for the relevant work - so to speak, Licensed, Bonded and Certified Security Professionals. Professionals receive appropriate training in Europe or the USA and must have a special certificate confirming their skills.

Key locks are opened with hand tool. The tool can be very different, up to kits-constructors, from which the key can be simply assembled. Assembly takes about fifteen minutes, opening - less than a minute. You can find out which key is needed various methods. For example, using ultraviolet lamp. The workpiece is inserted into the lock, the master tries to turn it a couple of times, then looks under ultraviolet light, where there are traces of the lock elements, and at these points changes the workpiece. Attempt after attempt - and after a while a suitable key is obtained. In the photo in the suitcase in the center is a set for forming a key.

"Clean" opening

The opening of any lock is based on its errors, "loopholes", deliberately or accidentally left by the manufacturers. A hundred years ago, errors in the manufacture of locks could reach a millimeter or more, and there were hundreds of different designs. Today, there are several basic types, but the quality of workmanship leaves the craftsmen with a much smaller field for activity. True, two identical castles, in fact, do not exist. Each has its own "face", its backlashes and errors.

A combination lock with the proper equipment is somewhat easier to open than a key lock. For example, the mentioned company Intralock (and others too) makes special automatic pick-ups. Such a gadget is installed on the lock and in a maximum of 36 hours determines the code of the safe using the selection method. More advanced modern models are equipped with an “intellectual system”: at the same time, it “listens” to what is happening inside the castle and analyzes the sounds, cutting off deliberately inappropriate combinations. It takes about 20 minutes to select the code.

Still life: varieties of instrument

When manually opening a combination lock (we are talking, of course, about a mechanical one), you need to use your hearing, since it is impossible to sort through more than a million combinations without equipment. For this, stethoscopes are used, which multiply the clicks and noises inside the castle. Of course, a non-professional will not be able to separate the “necessary” sounds from the “unnecessary” ones, and even with a stethoscope he is unlikely to be able to do anything sensible.

However, modern expensive combination locks are not amenable to electronic selection. The lock is connected to the drive mechanism of opening through a system of gears and can be located at any point of the door. mechanical movement inside such a lock occurs only when the code is fully and correctly typed. In the process of dialing, the lock is “silent”, and it is impossible to pick up the code by ear. Then you have to use rough methods, but more on that later.

Tool for balance cylinder locks

An electronic combination lock is not that much more complicated than a mechanical one. But you can't take it by choice. In almost all modern safes, if the lock is entered incorrectly, the lock is blocked, say, for five minutes. With the second - by ten, and then - on the rise. This does not mean that such a safe is more reliable than a mechanical one, everyone is equal against a drill. It only means that it is more difficult to crack it “purely”.

"Rough" opening

Let's debunk yet another myth. Many believe that after drilling and rough breaking, the safe is no good, only to be thrown away. It's a delusion. Drilling is one, maximum three tiny holes. After opening, the company's employees press cone-shaped plugs into them and brew them. Re-drilling at this point is much more difficult - that is, the safe becomes more reliable. The castle, however, most likely will have to be changed. But high-quality craftsmen also provide such a service.

Car instrument

So, in which case do you have to drill? First, if the lock is broken. Secondly, if it is so complicated that the selection can take several tens of hours, and it needs to be opened urgently. Thirdly, if the lock is electronic or biometric and in case of incorrect selection it will be blocked.

They drill safes in strictly defined places. If the model is typical, known, special templates are used. The central part of such a template is attached to the place of the round dialer; one of the holes on the template (which one is indicated in the special tables) coincides with the drilling point. Naturally, they drill in the very weak point lock - in order to unlock it. After drilling, the lock is either already open, or it is not difficult to do this through the resulting hole.

If the safe is non-standard, complex, then first a technological hole is drilled through which a borescope (more often called an endoscope) is passed - thin tube with a flashlight and a camera at the end. Having studied the interior of the safe with the help of a camera, the drilling point is calculated - and then according to the standard scenario.

Opening electronics, from left to right: Intralock ITL 2000 mechanical combination lock picker, Steelman Engine EAR II industrial stethoscope, Dynatec MIGS borescope.

But not everything is so simple. Manufacturers of safes are actively fighting drilling techniques. Most often, so-called blockers are used. For example, in the most convenient place for drilling, a thin cable can be tight. If it is damaged, the blocker is activated, fixing the lock with the help of an additional tongue. Sometimes tempered glass is installed along the entire inner surface of the door: wherever you drill, it will somehow burst when it comes into contact with the drill, and the blocker will work again. Moreover, there is even a “blocker in a blocker” type device! For example, the master drilled unsuccessfully, touched the blocker drive, it worked. The master began to drill a second hole to unlock the lock, and touched the drive of the second lock, which blocked access to the first. All this in the end does not save the safe from opening, but significantly slows down the process.

You can drill not the door, but the wall. This is where the defense methods come into play. The wall of the safe (unlike a fireproof cabinet) is a "sandwich" of several layers of metal of different densities. Maybe not only metal - there are corundum layers in aluminum cases, and reinforced concrete. An ordinary drill will not take such a wall. Special drills are used, and they have to be changed in the process, because each is designed for a different type of material. Vertical walls are also used to guide the drill. They are attached to the safe with magnets, withstand forces up to 700 kg for separation. In the photo - a machine of this type, only a drill is inserted into it, so to speak, "for beauty": you cannot drill a safe like that.

From the box to the plane

Masters have their own tricks and their guardian angels. In the company "Castle 911" we were told several curious cases. For example, one of the masters, leaving for a task, found a rusty key on the street and automatically picked it up (there is such a habit among experts working with locks). And in the client's apartment, a safe with a key lock of just this type was found. The master cleaned the key in a minute - and with a creak, but surprisingly, he approached the safe! "This is how legends are born!" — Laughing employees of the company. Often, customers use characteristic numbers as codes - phone numbers, birthdays, and still they get lost and forgotten! Masters carefully collect and analyze information coming from the customer. Sometimes, knowing the date of birth of the client, you can pick up a code in a minute, starting from it as a base.

Safes are just one of the specializations of master openers. They call to open cars, doors, and once even an airplane had to be opened.

Drilling template revolver type. It is installed in place of the dialer and rotated at a nominal angle, drilling is performed through the hole indicated in the attached table of models.

Apartment doors also have their own characteristics. They cannot be made in the style of safe or storage rooms according to fire safety requirements. Therefore, for protection, door manufacturers come up with tricky methods: for example, keyholes are located in places that are inconvenient for hacking - very low or even in the door jamb. It is not difficult to open such a lock with a key, but to crack it - you need to sweat. Often you have to open old boxes, locks on antique furniture and even ordinary travel suitcases, the codes from which happy vacationers simply forget.

Sometimes masters have to work with ATMs (collectors, as it turned out, often forget constantly changing codes). This is a special type of activity, since it is imperative to maintain the performance of a complex and expensive device. No more than a dozen firms and craftsmen throughout Russia have the right to such work; sometimes specialists are called from another city. By the way, service technicians never keep a "thieves' tool" in their arsenal: crowbars, cranks, "openers", wringers, even if the latter are effective. This is the law.

In general, the work of specialists is full. When, finally, opening locks becomes a licensed activity, and it will be possible to import the appropriate equipment from Europe into Russia without any problems, it will become much easier for everyone. And to us, and to closed doors, and to those who open them.

The fate of independent Scotland was decided at the walls of Stirling Castle in the 13th century. However, as modern political scientists believe, the Hollywood story about one of these battles played no less a role in the history of this territory of Great Britain than the real battle. Mel Gibson's 1995 film Braveheart, though full of historical blunders, reminded the Scots of the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge and stirred up their national identity. In July 1999, Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated the first session of the Scottish Parliament, convened following the 1997 popular referendum. No wonder the Scots themselves, emphasizing the importance of this castle, say: whoever owns Stirling rules Scotland.

However, the history of these places began long before the Stuarts. From the cliff of volcanic origin, 75 meters high, a panorama of the river Fort winding at the foot of the mountain, the surrounding fields, hills and forests opens up. This strategically important piece of land has always played an important role in the history of central Scotland. Here were both the Celts and the Romans, who looked from a height on the northern lands hostile to them, this rock always stood in the way to the Highlands. Then the Romans left these places. This territory became a crossroads and a place of struggle for four peoples: Picts, Scots, Britons and Angles.

It is believed that a single Scottish kingdom was created after the Scottish king Kenneth MacAlpin (Kenneth MacAlpin,? 858) defeated the Picts here in 843. After that, in the process of assimilation, the Picts merged with the cattle, forming the Scottish people.

Leaving the Palace, you can admire the huge Great Hall built by James IV for state receptions and special occasions for a long time. This hall is the largest in Scotland, measuring 138 feet by 47 feet, larger than even the hall at Edinburgh Palace. The structure of the roof, made of numerous cantilevered beams and today restored according to old drawings and engravings, makes one admire the skill of architects of the 16th century.

It is said that the oldest part of the castle, which includes the Great Hall, the Old Building of King James IV and the Royal Chapel, rebuilt from time immemorial until 1594, is still inhabited. Here, in the Main Courtyard, formed by these buildings, which are connected by numerous passages, the ghost of an ancient soldier is sometimes seen.

From the walls of the castle, where ancient cannons still stand, all the fields of the great battles for the fortress are visible. From here you have a view of the River Forth and the Wallace Monument, the ancient church of Hollyrood, the cemetery at the foot of the fortress and the city, which has long been located at the walls of the castle.

There is no need to recreate the medieval atmosphere in the town - the road leading from the castle to the town is surrounded by old houses and their ruins. The central street of the city keeps its medieval spirit, despite the fact that many houses here were built already in the 20th century, they retained the style and architecture of the 16th-17th centuries; without knowing the details, and you will not guess that you are seeing a remake. For example, in a building called Tolbooth, one can see traces of masonry from the 18th century and traces of restoration highlighted in brown brick.

However, walking along the ancient streets, you no longer pay attention to cars, modern signs and road signs symbols of modernity, organically fitting into the city of the 18th century, miraculously transferred to the 21st century.

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