Good Thinking

BOLT padlock system cuts down on keys

BOLT padlock system cuts down on keys
The BOLT padlock system allows you to open multiple padlocks using your vehicle's ignition key
The BOLT padlock system allows you to open multiple padlocks using your vehicle's ignition key
View 2 Images
The BOLT trailer hitch lock, and multi-purpose padlock
1/2
The BOLT trailer hitch lock, and multi-purpose padlock
The BOLT padlock system allows you to open multiple padlocks using your vehicle's ignition key
2/2
The BOLT padlock system allows you to open multiple padlocks using your vehicle's ignition key

Nobody likes having to carry around a keychain full of keys, or – worse yet – arriving somewhere only to discover that they haven’t brought the key they need. The BOLT system offers an alternative. It allows you to open multiple padlocks, all using your vehicle’s ignition key.

Each BOLT lock comes without a key of its own. Instead, the first time that it’s used, you simply insert your ignition key into its automotive-grade cylinder. This causes a series of spring-loaded tumblers to move up and down, conforming to the unique cut of that key. When the key is then turned for the first time, each tumbler is permanently matched to it. More details on the lock’s inner workings are available in the video below.

From there on in, it just works like a regular lock – it locks when the key is removed, and unlocks when the key is inserted and turned. Besides its unique key system, it also features a hardened steel shackle, a crush-resistant body shell, a stainless steel lock shutter, and a six-plate tumbler sidebar to thwart lock-pickers.

The cylinder is said to work with keys for most GM, Ford and Dodge vehicles. A Vehicle Match feature on the product website lets prospective buyers check if their own make, model and year of vehicle is compatible. Besides the multi-purpose padlock, there’s also a cable lock, along with locks designed for use on trailer hitches, spare tire mounts, tailgate handles, and toolbox handles.

It’s not quite clear what happens when you trade in your old vehicle ... presumably you could keep one of its spare keys and just keep using it, as long as you don’t mind knowing that someone else out there could now theoretically access your stuff.

The padlock sells for US$27.49.

Source: BOLT

How the BOLT padlock works

8 comments
8 comments
Michael Marshall
Better idea; just get padlocks that use the same key. Every padlock I own uses the same key.
Slowburn
I agree with Michael my brother has a 5 gallon bucket half full of padlocks all using the same key.
Ed
This is how the locks for my house work. When we took possession of our house after it was built, we were given *THE* house key. Once we turned the key in a lock, the lock was set to that key. This way, all the spare keys given to the contractors would no longer work in the locks. Just gotta make sure you hit all the outside doors though!
cachurro
Using padlocks with the same key uses one more key than this system. I like it.
Charles Slavens
Your car key-fob should be programable to also unlock the front door to your house. How many times have you stood there with an arm load of groceries, fumbling for your keys?
kellory
Charles, there is already a key-fob/ front door lock combo made by genie. I don't like them much, as they are large, bulky, and not a high quality product. Just another gadget. And I can already see away to pick this new lock. I will stick with keyed alike padlocks as well.
Slowburn
re; cachurro
Yes but the locks are less likely to break and have to be cut free.
Heikki Kääriäinen
Abloy locks had this feature for decades. http://www.abloy.com/en/abloy/abloycom/products/abloy-key-systems/abloy-master-key-solutions/