Which lock is better sidewinder vs dimple?

[betlock]

Which lock system is generally better, more secure against picking - sidewinder or dimple key locks?
The sidewinder key in question has 2 'tracks' on the top and bottom of the key and the dimple key has the usual 2 rows of dimples and 2 more dimples on the top and bottom of the key (so all 4 sides of the rectangular key have dimples).

I'm assuming sidewinder keys look like the one 2nd from the bottom from the picture in the link with the wavy pattern.
http://www.edmunds.com/car-care/the-hig ... -keys.html

[illusion]

Somewhat vague question.

There are dimple locks which are essentially a bog-standard pin tumbler with a horizontal key and then there some very cool sytems - DOM and KABA spring to mind. 'Sidewinder' locks are *mostly* seen on cars and are wafer locks - they work well and are secure enough although like any lock, they have weaknesses. For a car, a dimple lock-which are spectacularly fiddly and have lots of little components that will not appreciate any gunk-you'd likely find any increase in security is offset by less reliability. Some locks use sidewinder additions, milled onto the side of a pin tumbler key and their functions vary from key control to extra layers of security.

[betlock]

Somewhat vague question.

There are dimple locks which are essentially a bog-standard pin tumbler with a horizontal key and then there some very cool sytems - DOM and KABA spring to mind. 'Sidewinder' locks are *mostly* seen on cars and are wafer locks - they work well and are secure enough although like any lock, they have weaknesses. For a car, a dimple lock-which are spectacularly fiddly and have lots of little components that will not appreciate any gunk-you'd likely find any increase in security is offset by less reliability. Some locks use sidewinder additions, milled onto the side of a pin tumbler key and their functions vary from key control to extra layers of security.

Thanks for the reply. I'm asking in relation to car pedal locks and other auto security devices like steering locks that are going to be in the interior of the car so dirt will not be a big issue.
Something like this..
http://site.locktech-carlock.com/main/3 ... geid=60049

[GWiens2001]

Think your question is sidewinder or laser-track (or Bell type) locks. A four-track sidewinder will probably be harder to pick than a laser-track lock.

Pedal locks, depending on the actual locking mechanism, have some possibility. But don't waste your time or money on anything that locks to the steering wheel.

A hidden kill switch can help if it is installed in a way that looks like normal factory wiring.

A hollowed out relay can be put in place of the starter relay if you like being sneaky, but it is more of a hassle to remove and install, so only suggest that if the vehicle will be parked for a few days.

Gordon

[illusion]

[
Thanks for the reply. I'm asking in relation to car pedal locks and other auto security devices like steering locks that are going to be in the interior of the car so dirt will not be a big issue.
Something like this..
http://site.locktech-carlock.com/main/3 ... geid=60049

For that application, I'd be more concerned about resistance to forced attack than to manipulation. Having seen a fair number of those in-car security devices, I've found that they don't generally offer much pick protection, regardless of how complicated they may appear - cruciform locks being an example.

Faced with the choice between a lasertrack lock, versus a full-on KABA Gemini or DOM IX lock to pick - I'd hedge my money on having less trouble with the lasertrack lock. Faced with the choice between a lasertrack lock and an impressive-looking but ultimately poor security, cheap, dimple lock, I wouldn't feel too threatened by the dimple lock at all.

Gordon's suggestion above vis. the hidden kill switch is a fair idea and not overly difficult to implement, however it not provide a visual deterrent.