Introduction of Extruded Solid-Brass Padlocks

In the late 1950s, we introduced a line of padlocks made with extruded solid-brass bodies. The construction was developed for demanding outdoor service, where exposure to weather and corrosive conditions could shorten the working life of conventional locks. Brass provided strong corrosion resistance, making these padlocks particularly suitable for electrical, gas and other utility applications. The extruded-body design became an important part of our industrial range as utility customers assumed a larger role in the business. Combined with replaceable cylinders and keying options, the locks could be incorporated into the controlled access systems required across widely dispersed utility facilities and equipment. Variations of the solid-brass design would remain a characteristic part of the Wilson Bohannan product line in subsequent decades.