Marco van Wijk
What are Pins?
Updated: Mar 31

Pins are a crucial component in lock mechanisms, and they play a vital role in ensuring the security of our homes, offices, and other valuable properties. A pin tumbler lock typically has a key that inserts into the lock cylinder, which then activates a series of small pins that work together to prevent the lock from turning without the correct key.
When the right key is inserted, the pins align with the cylinder's shear line, allowing it to rotate and unlock the door. The pins are usually made of metal and are designed to be very durable to withstand the constant friction and pressure of opening and closing a lock.
One of the most important types of pins in a lock mechanism is the anti-pick pin. Anti-pick pins are designed to prevent lock picking, which is a method of manipulating the pins to unlock a lock without the correct key. These pins have a unique shape that makes it difficult for a lockpicker to manipulate them.
Another type of lock cylinder that uses pins is the ABUS lock. These locks are known for their high security and are used in many high-risk environments, such as banks and government facilities. The pins in an ABUS lock are usually made of hardened steel, which makes them extremely difficult to drill through.
The Yale lock cylinder is another type of lock that uses pins. These locks are commonly found in residential properties and are known for their reliability and durability. Yale locks typically have a larger number of pins than other locks, which makes them more difficult to pick.
A zero-bitted lock is a type of lock that has all of its pins set at the same height. This means that the lock can be opened without a key by using a special tool called a bump key. Zero-bitted locks are recommended for high-security applications and are generally used in High-risk environments.
In conclusion, pins are a vital component in lock mechanisms, and they play a crucial role in ensuring the security of our homes, offices, and other valuable properties. Anti-pick pins, ABUS locks, Yale lock cylinders, and zero-bitted locks are just a few examples of the various types of pins and locks that are available on the market.
If you want to learn more about these different types of locks and pins, be sure to check out our article on the different types of lock cylinders. We explore the various features and benefits of each type of lock cylinder to help you make an informed decision about which type of lock is best for your specific needs.