Storing keys in lock

[Release]

As my lock collection grows so does my key selection, and I have encountered a storage problem. My question is this: is it safe to store keys in their lock? It seems that having the pin springs stored in a compressed state would weaken them, but I don't know how much of an issue this really is. Have any of you veterans notice an effect on lifespan?

[GWiens2001]

For padlocks, I bought a large box of throw-away key rings. Then I simply put the key on the ring, and lock it on the lock. With other types of locks, it depends on the lock itself. Some I can attach to the lock in some manner, some require a little more creativity. Also have found that small zip-lock bags can be a way of keeping the key with the lock.

Storing keys in locks can affect the springs, and risk having them drop and bend/break the key.

Gordon

[billdeserthills]

My Dad always stored the keys in their locks, in fact I have lots of lock cylinders laying around from over 25 years ago, that still have their keys stuck in them and they all work just fine. At worst, before I sell one I will lubricate it with a puff of graphite & I have Never had a complaint. Although I will say that the keys for my padlock collection are all put upon a little key ring and locked upon the shackles, this is only because I don't want them to get lost, and those locks are hanging from the ceiling, in my shop--Only place I could find with no trash around...

[jbrint]

A bank bag
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CS8 ... =8-1-spons

Cable key rings
http://www.amazon.com/Super-More-Silver ... ey+ring+50

Tags
http://www.amazon.com/Cosmos-Different- ... +name+tags

I have a labeler that I can print and slip in the tags as sometimes I can't read my own handwriting.

This works exceptionally well for me and I always have my tryout keys with me for work.

[Protec2]

Coil springs wear from usage. The wear is occurring during the insertion and removal of the key when the springs are working. NO wear occurs whether they sit compressed or extended within their operating range.

[C locked]

Thanks for that tidbit protec2
I never knew that

[Squelchtone]

Coil springs wear from usage. The wear is occurring during the insertion and removal of the key when the springs are working. NO wear occurs whether they sit compressed or extended within their operating range.

Is there any chance that if I put a key into a new padlock and leave it there for a year, and then remove the key, would the spring retain any sort of memory and stay partially compressed from now on, or would it spring back to it's full length?

What you wrote make sense, but man would I like to do a long term test and take a new cylinder apart, measure spring lengths of all the chambers, insert the key, and let is sit for a year in that state, then take the key out, and take the lock apart and measure the springs again and see if they are back to normal or if they take some time to get back to normal, or if they remain partially compressed from now on.

Squelchtone

[billdeserthills]

The springs will compress and will be visibly shorter when compared to new springs, all I'm saying is the lock will still function without problems

[GWiens2001]

The springs will compress and will be visibly shorter when compared to new springs, all I'm saying is the lock will still function without problems

That is along the lines of my thinking. But I still keep the keys out of the lock in my collection. Though think that some really old locks might have a bit of a problem, or locks with cheap springs.

Gordon

[RumballSolutions]

Many many cylinders I purchase direct from the lock manufacturers and suppliers come shipped with the keys inserted to prevent separation and loss. Consequently there are lots of cylinders in service that were stored in that manner. It doesn't seem to cause major problems.

I do agree however, that a key busted off in a lock (particularly heavy padlocks) is greatly increased by storing key in.

[jeffmoss26]

Most of my locks are stored in drawers so I keep the keys in the locks. The ones I have on display, the keys are on a giveaway ring around the shackle.

[MacGnG1]

from amazon/office depot/staples:

lucky line split rings - 1000 piece box
500 each of assorted sizes clear plastic zip bags, (2 or 4 Mil
500 pieces yard sale paper tags on string
digital screen label maker + refills

[LocksportSouth]

My natural inclination is that the springs will somewhat retain a "memory" from being compressed for a LONG time without being removed, and will be less springy / more compressed than if they were sitting under no tension. I feel that also if the springs began to rust the release of tension could snap them - obviously only a problem if you're storing them outside. That said those are just a hunch on my part; I've not done any proper tests or studies. Personally I store my keys in a series of small boxes with the lock make affixed using a labeller, but that's just because of the way I have stuff set up currently. If I had to store the keys with the locks, I'd lock them onto the shackle with keyrings and/or zip ties.

[kwoswalt99-]

There will effectively be no change in spring length due to leaving the key in a lock. Also, springs rusting should not be a concern, as only crappy locks use plain carbon steel springs.