Cam Locks

A cam lock is about as simple as security hardware gets — a cylinder body, a rotating cam at the back, a quarter-turn of the key. That simplicity is exactly why they're used in so many applications and why, when one fails or goes missing, you want a replacement in hand quickly without a lot of fuss.

The rotating cam mechanism means they can secure almost anything with a panel: vending machines, electrical enclosures, display cabinets, cash drawers, office furniture, post boxes, control panels. The cam itself engages against a fixed strike or plate when turned, holding the door or drawer shut. It's a design that's been around for decades because it works, and because fitting one requires little more than a drill and a spanner.

Getting the right cam lock comes down to a few measurements that are worth taking before you order. Body diameter is the main one — 16mm, 19mm, and 22mm cover the majority of applications, but you'll find the odd 25mm or 26mm in older furniture and plant equipment. Barrel length matters just as much: too short and the nut won't bite; too long and the cam fouls on the panel. If you're replacing an existing lock, pull the original and measure across the body and from the front face to the back of the barrel. Two minutes with a vernier saves a wasted order.

Keying options are worth thinking through at the point of purchase. Standard cam locks for individual cabinets or drawers come keyed-to-differ — each lock has its own key. For any multi-unit installation, whether that's a bank of office lockers, a row of storage cabinets, or a set of drawers on a workshop bench, keyed-alike cam locks for multi-unit furniture are the sensible choice. One key across the lot, no labelled bunches, no hunting for which key fits which drawer. Master key systems are also available if you need tiered access across a larger installation.

Nut-fix and snap-fix (also called clip-fix) are the two main fitting methods here. Nut-fix is the more secure of the two and is standard for most permanent installations. Snap-fix locks clip into a pre-punched hole without any tool — useful for thin-panel applications and high-volume production fitting where speed matters.

Brands in this section include Asec, Lowe & Fletcher, Ronis DOM, and CISA — all reliable, all readily available for repeat orders.