What is the difference between Medeco F50 and F53 bottom pins?
In 2008, the locksmith and lockpicking communities saw the emergence of a bypass tool called the "Medecoder." This tool raised concerns due to its ability to decode and bypass certain Medeco locks. In response, Medeco took action by redesigning its bottom pins to counter the effectiveness of the Medecoder and similar bypass methods.
The Original Design: Broached Pins
Before the Medecoder challenge, Medeco bottom pins used a "fully broached" design. This meant the sidebar gate ran along the entire length of the pin. While functional, this design unfortunately allowed the Medecoder tool to engage each pin, extract decoding information, and potentially enable unauthorized access.
The Response: Milled Pins
Medeco's solution was to introduce "milled" pins. These pins maintained the core function of the original broached pins but crucially lacked the continuously extended sidebar gate. This subtle but significant change effectively neutralized the Medecoder's ability to decode the lock through the pins.
Product Changes: TP-F50 vs. TP-F53
This design evolution led to adjustments in part numbers and product offerings:
- TP-F50: These pins initially included a mix of broached and milled designs before Medeco transitioned them exclusively to the more secure milled pins.
- TP-F53: These pins remained fully broached.
Which Pin Should You Use?
Extensive testing reveals that milled (TP-F50) pins function correctly in about 99% of Medeco Biaxial and M3 cylinders manufactured before 2008.
However, there are rare exceptions. Specific master key pinning configurations combined with certain older cylinder designs might require the use of broached (TP-F53) pins in particular chambers for proper function.
Recommendation
Except for those rare, specific cases, we strongly recommend using milled (TP-F50) pins when pinning Medeco locks. They offer enhanced security against decoding tools like the Medecoder.
Need Medeco Cores or Pins?
For expert advice or to purchase Medeco products, visit Keys & Cores.
