120 Locks & Building Hardware Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk THE door industry journal winter 2025 Installer Insights: What Specifiers Should Know About 3 Star Cylinder Locks The Door Industry Journal is collaborating with The Perspicacity Life on a new series of expert articles exploring how frontline professionals — locksmiths, installers and repair specialists — shape and influence the real-world performance of the products we specify, fabricate and supply. In this first article, we speak with Craig of The Perspicacity Life — a working locksmith and respected voice in the security hardware space — to get his practical take on 3 star cylinder locks. While many of our readers are already well-versed in TS007 and high-security hardware from a specification standpoint, this series aims to shift the lens to what happens on the ground — and how those experiences can (and should) feed back up the chain. But first, a bit about Craig and his background. Meet the Expert: Craig, The Perspicacity Life 1. Can you tell us about your background — how long have you been working as a locksmith, and what does your typical workload involve? I started locksmithing at 14 and even did my work experience at 15. Living next door to an established locksmith gave me early access to the profession. I was enrolled with the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) and passed the MLA BLI exam at 18, becoming the youngest “master locksmith” in the UK at the time. In 2009, I set up AA Lock and Key in Bristol, becoming an MLA-approved company. Sixteen years later, I’ve completed thousands of jobs and built a 5-star reputation. My work focuses on reactive locksmithing—fixing failed uPVC or composite door locks, lock-outs, fittings, and 3-star lock upgrades. I now have over 23 years of experience and run The Perspicacity Life, promoting trusted local locksmiths across the UK. 2. What prompted you to start The Perspicacity Life, and what kind of conversations or issues are you trying to spotlight through it? The aim is to connect customers with high-quality, local, independent locksmiths. Locksmiths who join TPL gain better leads and support to grow their businesses. I’ve scaled locksmith businesses myself, so I know what it takes to succeed. 3. In your experience, where is the biggest disconnect between how security products are specified and how they perform in real-life installations or repairs? The main disconnect is between the product and the customer. Brands often sell to locksmiths via trade shows or sales reps, but customers don’t always understand why a product costs more, and locksmiths don’t always have time to explain it fully on every job. For instance, when I’m replacing a euro cylinder, I offer budget, 1-star, or 3-star options. Without explanation, most customers choose the cheapest. But once I explain the differences—anti-snap, anti-bump, testing standards—many choose higher-spec options. Even some locksmiths are unclear on the distinctions between 1-star, 3-star, TS007, or diamond ratings, which just adds to the confusion. This lack of awareness affects consumer demand and leads to lower uptake of high-security options. It’s something that needs serious attention as we head into 2025 and beyond.
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