Wardedelåset

Wardedelåset is a type of lock mechanism that relies on a series of internal obstructions, known as wards, to prevent an improperly shaped key from turning the bolt. These wards are fixed pieces of metal within the lock case that require corresponding cutouts or notches in the key to pass through. If the key does not have the correct pattern to navigate around the wards, it will not be able to reach the turning mechanism of the bolt. This design principle is one of the oldest forms of lock security.

The complexity of warded locks can vary significantly. Simpler designs might have only a few basic wards, while more elaborate ones can incorporate numerous intricate wards that create a challenging path for the key. The effectiveness of a warded lock is directly proportional to the number and complexity of its wards and the precision with which the key is manufactured to match them. Warded locks are generally considered to be less secure than modern pin tumbler or wafer locks, as their wards can sometimes be bypassed by specialized tools or by manipulating the bolt directly. However, they remain historically significant and are still found in some decorative or less critical applications.