Quote Originally Posted by copfish View Post
Opie, can you explain for those of us in the hinterlands what to do? Should we look at replacing the old dial lock with something's no better? My old 15-20 year old Canon has an S&G dial and my 5 year old Fort Knox has an electronic keypad. Other than lubing the bolts and changing batteries I've not messed with them. Any recommendations? I like the sound of the redundant...
Here is my opinion. Mechanical locks are very reliable but, with any mechanical/moving part, wear can happen thus creating problems that the OP is having. Electronic locks are very convienent but as with anything electronic, there can be failure. Almost every safe including commercial safes come with an electronic lock due to convenience. I have safes with both types of locks only because that's how they came.

When needing/upgrading a lock, it's all personal preference. A lock is a lock is a lock(within a quality manufacture) and what your wants/needs are should determine what lock to get. Somebody who's in there safe once a day will be fine with a basic e-lock. Redundant locks are great. You get the best of both worlds, reliability and convenience. Also, lock manufactures are coming out with all-in-one kits that don't require modifications to the safe door!

Again, it boils down to personal preference and your wants/needs are.