Pick Proof Locks : Jacob Rabinow

Pick Proof Locks
ca. 1977

Rabinow invented several variations of the pick-proof lock. The basic principle involved the use of two sets of tumblers rather than just one, as in a conventional lock. The two tumblers sets opposed each other with only 0.020 in. between them. Correspondingly, Rabinow made a key from a piece of 0.020 in. thick sheet metal and bent it into a zigzag shape. The tumblers were made to fit the zigzags. He considered it highly unlikely an intruder would have a key of both the correct thickness and shape to fit the lock. However, manufacturers were not interested in Rabinow’s pick-proof lock. The key looked funny. Once again, Rabinow ran up against the barred door of tradition. He knew well the motto, “Make it better, but don’t change anything.”