Chamfering pin chambers

[ltdbjd]

Anybody ever try putting a slight chamfer on the pin chambers to help them work smoothly? I’m not referring to correcting a problem, but as a matter of routine? I might test that out on an upcoming project.

I have an actual reaming tool for use on Moguls, so it wouldn’t be a rough or uneven chamfer, like you’d get with a Dremel.

[GWiens2001]

Many of the non-OEM pins have a slight bevel on each end for exactly that reason.

Gordon

[ltdbjd]

I use OEM for Corbin Russwin; LAB for everything else.

Are you suggesting that with non-OEM, chamfering wouldn’t provide much of a benefit? I’d want some degree of benefit to bevel 1,512 chambers by hand (252 cylinders x 6 chambers). If it’s limited, it wouldn’t be worth the time, effort, or hand cramps.

You made an interesting point that brings up another question. Would a beveled pin edge and a chamfered chamber create a wide enough gap that it could cause a security pin (e.g. spool or drunken spool) to catch? I understand the chamfer would likely guide the edge up and out of the chamber, but could it cause a hiccup?

[GWiens2001]

I suspect that in most cases, LAB pins have more chamfering. At least in my limited experience. A chamfer on the plug pin channels would help, but it would reduce security, as it would make a wider gap that can be exploited if someone would pick the lock. Any chamfering would have that effect, whether it be on the pin or the plug.

Gordon

[jimu57]

I made a tool to slightly bevel the edges of pin chambers, mainly in the plug. Makes it easier to change pins in practice locks I make. New cylinders work great and not having any wear on the chambers, it's difficult to remove pins thru the holes in the shell. Most of the time you really have to bang the cylinder on a bench top to get the pins out.

[cledry]

At best it adds .002" to the gap. Yes it will reduce security slightly but most customers want a smooth working lock, trade offs. A slight chamfer is not a problem as i see it.