CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FINDINGS

UNITED STATES CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION FINDINGS
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You may already be aware that in February 2001, the CPSC evaluated 32 locks of which 30 of them failed to meet their expectations.  The CPSC tested 16 trigger locks and 16 cable locks collected from various manufacturers.  Pro-Lok is proud that we were the only manufacturer to pass the tests conducted on the trigger locks.  The CPSC inquiry was prompted as a result of  several gun lock recalls.

Although we were proud of producing the only trigger locks to pass the CPSC testing, we were committed to use the test results we received and continued to improve our products even further.  We have made considerable improvements in both of our locks since the testing took place.

Although the CPSC test is a good source of guidance, we would not suggest you use the results of their testing as the only determining factor of what is a good lock.  The CPSC only conducted 3 tests.  These 3 basic tests should serve as an embarrassment to the industry for providing products with such disappointing results.  The CPSC will be the first to admit that their tests were not designed or intended to be conclusive.  The objective of the CPSC was only to determine if there was an “industry” problem or a “brand” specific problem with locks.

The CPSC realized at the time of their testing that additional tests might be required or appropriate other than just the 3 tests that they conducted.  For this reason the CPSC testing should be considered incomplete.  Just because 2 locks passed the three CPSC tests should not necessarily suggest that those locks would pass additional tests that may be determined important.

The perception of a gun locks quality and protection offered has deteriorated.  Since the CPSC demonstrated that 30 of 32 locks failed fundamental and basic tests, faulty locks have been demonstrated on television.  Politicians have pointed to the deficiencies for several years.  Newspapers have printed countless stories on the lack of qualities.  The Internet is full of negative stories; one site even illustrates the opening of a gun lock with a Popsicle stick.

Fortunately, there are quality choice locks available.  Unfortunately, the only locks that get attention are the ones that don’t meet expectations.