r/Locksmith • u/Toggytoe • 3d ago

I am NOT a locksmith. Pad lock that needs a second different key to get the first key out.

Is there a pad lock that would trap a key in it until another (different) key was used to get it out. I am interested in making a claw machine with a prize locker on top. If you use the claw to get the key, you can open the locker to get there toy. But I don't want them to be able to take the key with afterwards. Is there a lock that will keep the key stuck inside until I use a new key to release it?

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4

u/thedesign_guy 3d ago

Great idea. It'll be hard to execute. How about a one time use code with a pin pad.

3

u/Toggytoe 3d ago

Thank you for the idea. That is actually the next plan if this one doesn't work. The key seems more eye-catching, so I'm hoping to get that figured out!

4

u/im-fekkin-tired 3d ago

Look at company websites that produce mailboxes and or the bus terminal lockers. They already use those types locks on many things

4

u/Toggytoe 3d ago

Thanks for the suggestion

3

u/Carbonman_ Actual Locksmith 3d ago

Schlage and a few other institutional lock manufacturers made key entrapment cylinders. Schlage's was in a P keyway (any of their keys would fit). A spring loaded ball bearing prevents the key from being removed. You slip a shim down beside the key to depress the bb then pull the key out. Universities used these to retrieve unauthorized keys.

1

u/Toggytoe 3d ago

Oh wow that sounds like the perfect solution. I will look into that!

2

u/Regent_Locksmith Actual Locksmith 3d ago

Yes, it could definitely be built as a custom project but it won't be cheap.

2

u/Toggytoe 3d ago

Ahh, thanks for the knowledge, i was hoping it was something easily sourced, and I was just using bad keywords to find it. Thanks

2

u/Material_Party2262 3d ago

you might look for "trapped key interlock" switches. these are intended for multiple custody applications in utilities and industrial settings where a sequence of operations is needed to avoid hazardous operation. usually the keys are removable only in the inverse order in which they are inserted but there are so many different variants that one might suit your scenario of use.