Is there still a viable reason to specify and select 5-pin cylinders?

The Illusion of 5-Pin Cylinders

At first glance, five pins in a lock cylinder may sound impressive. With a bit of clever marketing, it’s easy to see why buyers believe they’re getting solid security. In the past, this may have been true. But things have changed significantly in recent years. It’s time for those still promoting 5-pin cylinders to acknowledge the truth – this outdated, inferior product has no place in modern security.

The True Cost of Cheap Cylinders

5-pin cylinders are often sold on price, but like many so-called bargains, the true cost can be far greater. If you replace a lock cylinder in your home, and your insurance policy requires specific standards, you could unintentionally void your cover. This is an easy mistake to make – after all, who reads the fine print on insurance documents?

Insurers’ Standards and Vulnerabilities

Insurers, of course, set their premiums to reflect their risk. In the case of lock cylinders, they often specify BS3621. Under this standard, cylinders must be 6-pin models to achieve the minimum specification. Insurers are well aware that the 5-pin versions are more vulnerable to attack.

The Impact of Approved Document Q

In 2015, a new requirement, Approved Document Q, dealing with the security of dwellings, was added to English Building Regulations. For the first time, new dwellings were required to be able to resist unauthorised entry by casual or opportunist burglars. Manufacturers rushed to ensure their products reached the required standards. PAS24 is often-quoted as the standard for door security, and let’s be absolutely clear: to meet PAS24, a 6-pin cylinder is required as a minimum necessity.

Limitations in Complex Systems

Beyond the domestic market, the limitations of 5-pin cylinders become clear. Their design offers fewer combinations than a 6-pin cylinder, making them unsuitable for complex masterkey systems, such as those used in hospitals and schools. Specifiers often find themselves facing difficulties when trying to meet their client’s keying requirements. What was initially specified may not work, leading to the need to switch to a 6-pin solution. While this adds to the cost, it’s often the only option to achieve the desired keying complexity.

Security Features and Compliance

With fewer chambers in a 5-pin cylinder, the options for enhanced security features are limited. For example, construction keying isn’t usually a possibility. Also – with implications that most consumers will understand – fewer chambers means no anti-bump features. If you don’t have anti-bump capability the cylinder cannot be considered for use on entrance doors to dwellings – again as part of Approved Document Q. Furthermore, without anti-bump it’s not possible to achieve the much-publicised 3-star security rating. The result – properties are more vulnerable to attack.

The Future of Lock Security

The good news is that, overall, both in the domestic and commercial markets, standards of security are increasing. Lock cylinders are better designed and built, more door manufacturers are choosing 3-star products and there is an increased understanding that for total security, key systems need patent protection.

The Persistent Problem of 5-Pin Cylinders

The bad news is that some vendors continue to push 5-pin cylinders onto unsuspecting buyers. Surely, it is time this stopped.

Get in Touch

If you’re ready to upgrade your security with modern, patent-protected systems, don’t settle for inferior 5-pin cylinders. Contact Access2 today to learn more about our advanced lock solutions.

Call us at +44 (0)191 215 0530 or email sales@access2.com. Let us help you secure what matters most.

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A photograph of school children raising their hands. There are approximately 10 children in the image sat in a well lit classroom. They are wearing blue school jumpers over white shirts.

Preparing School Locking Strategies for Martyn’s Law

Martyn’s Law, introduced to improve security in public spaces, is prompting schools and other organisations to re-evaluate their locking strategies. With safety under greater scrutiny, it’s important for facility managers and school administrators to understand the options available and ensure their buildings are prepared. Classroom vs Clutch Cylinders: What You Need to Know With the introduction of Martyn’s Law, building locking strategies—particularly in education and public spaces—are coming under greater scrutiny. One area often overlooked is the difference between Classroom and Clutch lock functions. In a barricade situation, a Clutch Cylinder allows a keyholder to override the internal thumbturn from outside, whilst still allowing the door to be locked from inside the room. This helps maintain control of the space while preventing unauthorised access. Traditionally, many educational buildings have used Classroom Function, but in certain situations a Clutch Function may provide a more appropriate solution. How Access2 Can Help At Access2, we can help convert Classroom cylinders to Clutch Function without affecting the existing master key system. This means schools can upgrade their locking strategy quickly and efficiently, ready for the next term or planned refurbishment. If you’d like to review your current setup or discuss options, feel free to get in touch with our team.

Daniel Johnson Joins Access2 as Regional Sales Manager

We are pleased to announce that Daniel Johnson has joined the Access2 sales team as Regional Sales Manager. Many of you may already know Dan, who brings with him a wealth of industry experience. He joins Access2 from Zoo Hardware Ltd, where he held several key roles over two periods, including Business Development & Customer Service Manager and Workshop/Master Keying Manager, totalling more than 12 years of service. Between his time at Zoo Hardware, Dan also spent nearly two years at Carlisle Brass Ltd, working as Cylinder Product Specialist and Cylinder Workshop Manager, further strengthening his technical expertise and customer-focused approach. Please join us in welcoming Dan to Access2.