Introduction of Pin-Tumbler Padlocks

In the late 1930s, we began moving beyond the lever and warded mechanisms that had formed much of our earlier product range by introducing pin-tumbler padlocks. The new mechanism used a series of spring-loaded pins that had to be positioned correctly by the key before the cylinder could turn, allowing a substantially larger number of practical key combinations than our earlier lock designs. Pin-tumbler cylinders also gave us greater flexibility in keying locks for commercial and industrial customers. Multiple locks could be configured for individual keys while also being incorporated into master-key systems, an important capability for facilities and organisations managing larger groups of locks. The introduction of this technology broadened the security and key-control options available in the Wilson Bohannan range while manufacturing remained centred in Marion, Ohio.