Understanding Paracentric Keyways: Anatomy, Advantages, Picking Techniques and More

Imagine the thrill of sharing my passion for locks with a room full of fellow enthusiasts during a captivating workshop session on paracentric keyways. The air was filled with excitement and curiosity as we delved into the intricacies of these fascinating lock designs. Having gained valuable insights and knowledge from the workshop, I couldn’t wait to write about this captivating topic.

Locks have always been more than mere mechanical devices to me; they represent a unique blend of art, engineering, and history, standing as symbols of security and ingenuity. And in the world of locks and security, paracentric keyways and locks hold a unique place. These specialized keyways aim to boost security and foil lock-picking attempts, making them a captivating aspect of lock engineering. 

So in this blog, I will take you on an intriguing journey into the world of paracentric keyways and locks. We’ll delve into their unique anatomy, explore the benefits they offer, and examine three popular paracentric locks currently available. 

What are Paracentric Keyways?

Paracentric keyways are a fascinating aspect of lock design. It is a specific type of keyway used in pin tumbler locks, primarily designed to enhance security against lock picking and key bumping. Unlike conventional keyways with straight grooves, paracentric keyways have curvy, asymmetrical channels.

So essentially a paracentric keyway is one which has one of the wards intersecting with the vertical line across the length of the keyway.

Now, you might wonder what purpose these paracentric keyways serve. By incorporating such complex keyway designs, lock manufacturers aim to make life difficult for unauthorized individuals attempting to pick or manipulate the lock.

Anatomy of Paracentric Keyways

The anatomy of a paracentric keyway consists of several key components that contribute to its unique design and enhanced security. As a lock expert, let me walk you through the key elements that make up a paracentric keyway:

Central Groove: At the core of a paracentric keyway lies the central groove. This groove forms the central part of the keyway and serves as the primary channel for the key to enter the lock. It provides the initial alignment and guidance for the key during the insertion process.

Side Wards: Surrounding the central groove are the side wards or projections. These side wards protrude past the vertical centerline of the keyway, giving the paracentric keyway its distinctive and sometimes radical appearance. The side wards serve as an essential security feature, making it more difficult to maneuver lock-picking tools and reach the pins.

Narrow Keyway Dimensions: Paracentric keyways are intentionally designed with narrow dimensions, which add an extra layer of challenge for anyone attempting to manipulate the lock or insert unauthorized keys. The reduced space in the keyway restricts the movement of lock-picking tools, further enhancing security.

Complex Pinning Arrangement: Inside the lock cylinder, the pin stacks align with the grooves of the keyway.  The complex pinning arrangement adds to the difficulty of picking a paracentric lock without the correct key.

Key Profile: The key that operates a paracentric lock has a specific profile that matches the intricate design of the keyway. The unique cuts on the key correspond to the grooves and side wards of the keyway, allowing it to navigate the complex path and manipulate the pins effectively.

Few Examples of Paracentric Locks

Let’s take a look at a few paracentric keyways locks available in the market. Please note that I have not used them myself hence I am not making any recommendations here. 

• ABUS 64TI/20 Titanium Padlock
• ABUS E60N1030C Euro Profile Half Cylinder
• ABUS 26/70 Diskus Hardened Steel Padlock

As can be seen from these examples, their keyways have either one or two wards protruding to the other side of the vertical line across the keyway.

Picking Paracentric Locks 

Picking paracentric locks can be a challenging task due to their unique keyway design, which features one or more of the side wards protruding past the vertical centerline. The purpose of this design is to make it more difficult for lock pickers to maneuver their tools and reach the pins.

While picking paracentric locks can be challenging, it is not impossible with the right tools and techniques. Here are some essential tips for picking paracentric locks:

• Step 1. Choose the Right Tools: Opt for slim, flexible lock picks like half diamond picks or hook picks to navigate the intricate keyway effectively. Consider using deeper-reaching lock picks, such as deep hooks, to navigate through the warding and reach the pins more effectively. This method can be especially useful for heavily paracentric keyways.
• Step 2. Tensioning: Next, insert the lock pick into the groove of the lock, carefully through one of the side wards. Apply tension to the pins using a tension wrench just like you would with any other pin tumbler lock. However, keep in mind that paracentric locks may require a bit more finesse in tensioning due to the unique keyway design.
• Step 3. Feel for Binding Pins: Gently apply tension and feel for any binding pins. Binding pins are pins that are set higher or lower than the others and may feel slightly resistant when pressure is applied to them.
• Step 4. Lift and Set Pins: Once you have identified a binding pin, carefully lift it to the shear line using your pick. Be patient and gentle in your movements, as the paracentric keyway makes it easier to overset pins.
• Step 5. Work on Each Ward Separately: Since paracentric keyways have multiple wards, you may need to work on each ward individually to set all the pins correctly. This can take more time and patience compared to picking standard pin-tumbler locks.

It is important to note that picking paracentric locks requires practice and patience. It may take some time to get used to the unique keyway design and develop the necessary skills to pick these locks successfully.

To be honest, I am also still learning how to pick a paracentric keyway lock with confidence. 

Remember, lock picking should only be performed on locks you own or have explicit permission to pick. Engaging in lock picking without proper authorization is illegal and unethical. Always use your lock-picking skills responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are there any specific maintenance requirements for paracentric locks? 

Answer – Like any lock, paracentric locks require regular maintenance to ensure their optimal performance. Lubrication and cleaning are essential to keep the lock functioning smoothly and extend its lifespan.

Q2. Can I upgrade my existing lock to a paracentric lock without changing the entire hardware? 

Answer – If you are using an interchangeable core lock, you may be able to replace the existing lock cylinder with a paracentric cylinder, allowing you to upgrade your lock to a paracentric design without changing the entire hardware. However, compatibility may vary, and it’s recommended to consult with a professional locksmith to determine if such an upgrade is possible for your specific lock.

Conclusion

Paracentric keyways and locks represent a significant advancement in lock security, providing enhanced protection against traditional lock-picking methods. Their unique design and restricted keyways make them ideal for securing valuable assets and sensitive information. However, it’s essential to use lock-picking skills responsibly and legally, as lock-picking without proper authorization is a criminal offense in many jurisdictions.

I hope the article must have provided you with valuable information about paracentric keyways. If you have any other queries, write to me in the comment section.