on all orders over $150*
on all orders over $150*
When you think of locks, the first image that comes to mind is often a padlock or door lock. But in 2025, one of the most widely used security devices in offices, homes, and businesses is the cam lock. Compact, affordable, and highly versatile, cam locks are a go-to solution for securing cabinets, drawers, mailboxes, furniture, and even electrical panels.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore what a cam lock is, how it works, the types available, common uses, and why locksmiths still recommend them today.
A cam lock is a small cylindrical lock that uses a rotating metal piece (called a cam) to secure or release an item when the correct key is inserted. The cam rotates either 90° or 180°, locking or unlocking a drawer, cabinet, or box.
Cam locks come in several variations, each suited to different needs:
Pin Tumbler Cam Locks – Provide higher security with multiple pin combinations.
Wafer Tumbler Cam Locks – Affordable and commonly used in office furniture.
Disc Tumbler Cam Locks – Durable and resistant to weather, ideal for outdoor use.
Keyless Cam Locks – Operated by thumb turns or electronic codes for convenience.
Tubular Cam Lock – Offers higher security with a round key design, often used in vending machines and secure enclosures.
The working principle of a cam lock is simple yet reliable:
Insert the key into the cylinder.
Turning the key aligns the lock mechanism.
The cam rotates behind the surface.
This movement either blocks or frees the door, drawer, or panel.
This makes cam locks one of the easiest and most reliable lock types for furniture and cabinets.
You’ll find cam locks almost everywhere because of their versatility. Some popular uses include:
Cam locks for cabinets – Office filing cabinets, cupboards, and storage drawers.
Furniture cam locks – Desks, wardrobes, and shelves.
Mailboxes and lockers – Everyday personal storage.
Utility boxes and cam lock boxes – Electrical panels, toolboxes, and safes.
If you’re new to hardware security, you may wonder how to install a cam lock. Thankfully, it’s simple:
Drill or use the pre-existing hole in the cabinet or furniture.
Insert the cam lock body into the hole.
Secure it with the provided nut or clip.
Attach the cam (metal piece) to the back of the lock.
Tighten everything and test with the key.
In just a few steps, you’ll have a functional, secure lock for your cabinet or furniture.
Sometimes, you’ll need to repair or upgrade your lock. Knowing how to remove a cam lock or how to replace a cam lock is just as important as installing one:
Open the lock with the key (if available).
Unscrew or unclip the cam from the back.
Remove the cylinder from the hole.
Insert and secure the replacement cam lock.
This makes upgrading to a tubular cam lock or changing keys easy for both homeowners and businesses.
Cam locks have been around for decades, yet they remain a favorite choice among homeowners, businesses, and locksmiths. Their ongoing popularity comes down to a mix of affordability, simplicity, and versatility.
Affordable Security – Budget-friendly compared to digital or smart locks.
Versatile Applications – Used in cabinets, furniture, lockers, mailboxes, utility boxes, and more.
DIY-Friendly – Easy to install, remove, and replace without expert help.
Durable & Reliable – Built from strong materials like brass, steel, or zinc alloy.
Customizable Security – Available in different types (pin tumbler, wafer tumbler, disc tumbler, tubular).
Compact Design – Small size makes them perfect for tight spaces where bigger locks won’t fit.
Trusted by Locksmiths – Still recommended by professionals for everyday security needs.
If you’re looking for high-quality cam locks, tubular cam locks, or furniture cam locks, the best place to shop is CLK Supplies. They offer a wide range of locksmith tools, keys, and locking mechanisms trusted by professionals across the U.S.
A cam lock may be small, but it’s one of the most practical and reliable ways to secure your furniture, cabinets, and storage units in 2025. Now that you know what a cam lock is, how it works, and how to install, remove, or replace one, you can confidently choose the right solution for your home or business.
For locksmiths, DIYers, or anyone looking for reliable locks, cam locks remain an essential part of everyday security.
1. Are cam locks secure?
Cam locks provide good everyday security for cabinets, furniture, and boxes. For higher security, tubular cam locks or keyed-alike systems are recommended.
2. What is a tubular cam lock?
A tubular cam lock uses a round key and is harder to pick compared to standard wafer or pin tumbler cam locks. They are often used in vending machines, lockers, and secure boxes.
3. Do cam locks come in different sizes?
Yes, they are available in various lengths and cam styles to fit different applications.
