Wafer Tumbler Cam Lock

A: As with pin tumbler locks, the correct key aligns the wafers to the shear line, allowing the lock to turn. Although they function similarly to pin tumbler locks, wafer locks are generally easier to manipulate and can often be compromised with a set of try-out keys.

A: A set of wafers is used to block rotation of the plug at one or more points. Low-security wafer locks traditionally block at a single point, though more advanced models can block at the top and the bottom, as well as alternate the bitting of components to be at the top and bottom of the keyway.

A: It is also possible to rake wafer locks with some success. There are also a few tools made specifically for wafer locks. They work by combining the tension wrench and the raking tool into the one pick.

A: These work the same basic way as pin-and-tumblers, but they have thin wafer-shaped tumblers rather than pins. You pick the wafers exactly the same way you pick pins -- in fact, it is a little bit easier to pick wafer-tumbler locks because the keyhole is wider.

A: Wafer locks are less secure than pin tumbler locks because they can be picked with a simple tension wrench and paperclip. However, they are less expensive to manufacture. Applications where security is not a significant concern, such as filing cabinets and vending machines, use them.

A: To remove a cam lock, first turn the cam lock's key or dial to the unlocked position, then locate the retaining nut at the back of the cam lock and loosen it using a wrench. Once the nut is free, you can pull the cam lock body out from the front. If a key is lost or the lock is stuck, you may need to use a lock pick or, as a last resort, drill or other methods to remove the cam.