We are pleased to introduce a new series of Top of the Keyway Tension Tools designed by Christina Palmer.
An expert in the field of lock sport and lock picking, Ms. Palmer recognized several design flaws in Top of the Keyway (ToK) Tension Tools that are standard in the industry: Their short blades do not provide stable placement in locks with flush plugs, but are too short to span standard recessed plugs. Their long blades are too long for stable placement in locks with standard recessed plugs, but their rounded, inner radius at the long blade prohibits flush placement in locks with deeply recessed plugs. Also, many ToK tension tools in the industry have serrated blades, which can cause wear or damage to lock keyways.
Ms. Palmer's Top of the Keyway Tension Tool designs have corrected these design flaws, and provide much-improved fit, placement and stability in both locks with flush plugs and locks with recessed plugs.
Our SouthOrd series of Top of the Keyway Tension Tools, designed by Ms. Palmer, is available in two variations: A double-ended ToK tension tool designed for use in locks with standard-recessed and deeply-recessed plugs, and a ToK tension tool designed for use in locks with flush plugs.
Top of the Keyway Tension Tools for Recessed Plugs
The SouthOrd Top of the Keyways Tension Tools for Recessed Plugs feature increased length of the short blade to correctly span standard recessed plugs, and reduced length and radius of the long blade for correct and flush placement in deeply recessed plugs. Their blade-width is also more narrow than other ToK Tension Tools in the industry so that they can be effectively used in bottom of the keyway placement. Additionally, the blades have no serrations to cause wear or damage to lock keyways.
Top of the Keyway Tension Tools for Flush Plugs
The SouthOrd Top of the Keyways Tension Tools for Flush Plugs provide optimal fit and stability in locks with flush plugs, and are also without serrations.
Both variations of SouthOrd Top of the Keyways Tension Tools are available in three thicknesses: .050", .040" and .030", with the steel thickness clearly marked on the tools for easy identification.
We appreciate Christina Palmer sharing her designs with us, and her input on our production of the designs.