History of the Jimmy Proof Lock
Jimmy Proof deadbolt locks were introduced in the early 20th century by a New York City police detective named Samuel Segal. Segal saw a need for better security hardware to protect residents from thieves, so he designed and developed the jimmy proof drop bolt. The purpose of the lock was to prevent burglars from prying open the door apart from the door frame to tamper with the bolt essentially gaining entry. This practice was and still is common to burglars with a traditional horizontal bolt, such as the classic tubular deadbolt. The name Jimmy Proof originated from the prevention of "Jimmying" the door. Jimmy Proof Locks were also known as, and are still but rarely referred to as "Segal Locks". Segal locks got their name simply due to the name of the company who first made them, Segal Lock and Hardware Company. Segal lock who originally started in Connecticut, moved to Manhattan, and finally built a factory in Red Hook, Brooklyn.
Jimmy proof locks are considered a higher level of security from the standard tubular deadbolts which are installed on most residential applications. With consideration to the mechanics of the jimmy proof deadbolt, and the option of upgrading its level of security, the jimmy proof lock has been the number one security choice for apartment doors.
Lock Accessories to Maximize Security
High Security Cylinder
You will always hear a locksmith recommended this item. Essentially upgrading any locking mechanism is adding a high security cylinder. A high security cylinder will upgrade the level of security by preventing lock picking, key bumping and key origination by impression. There are many manufactures who make high security cylinders, but the two most reputable are Medeco and Mul-T-Lock.
Cylinder Guard Plate
Prevents the lock from being opened with a screwdriver from the outside. The cylinder guard is installed on top of the cylinder essentially blocking most access for prying it open. Having drilled holes through the door to bolt the plate through using 1/4" in diameter bolts, this adds additional security. The cylinder guard plate is usually bolted through the door using 4 x 2 1/2" metal bolts fastened by washers and nuts.
Vertical Jimmy Bar
The Jimmy bar is a great accessory to add to almost any door. This hardware basically prevents burglars from prying the door open or prying the door enough to tamper with the latch or bolt which in essence keeps the door locked.
