Camloc operates as two specialized engineering divisions: a UK-based motion control manufacturer producing gas springs and dampers, and a fastening division under Howmet Fastening Systems that makes quick-release fasteners and latches. Their cabinet lock line represents a small but well-engineered slice of their fastening portfolio — disc tumbler locks built for contractors who need keyed-alike convenience without sacrificing durability.
Professional-Grade Construction Details
The 1-3/16” Brass Keyed Same #390 delivers what matters for cabinet installations. The lock passed ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 testing at 20,000+ cycles — that’s 20,000 key insertions and removals before showing wear. Most residential locks never see half that abuse. The 5-disc tumbler mechanism provides decent security without the complexity of pin tumblers that jam up with sawdust.
| Specification | 1-3/16” #390 Lock | 1-7/16” #642 Lock |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder Length | 1-3/16” (30mm) | 1-7/16” |
| Max Panel Thickness | 7/8” (22mm) | 1-1/8” |
| Mounting Hole | 3/4” (19mm) | 3/4” |
| Rotation Options | 90° with stop washer | 90° or 180° Flexafunction |
| Body Material | Die-cast zinc alloy | Die-cast zinc |
| Finish Options | Brass (Antique/Polished/Bright) | US3, US4G, US14A |
Both locks include straight and formed cams for overlay or flush mounting, eliminating the usual scramble to find the right cam when you’re halfway through an install. The non-key-retaining design means the key comes out in both locked and unlocked positions — critical for job site efficiency where keys get passed between crews.
Keyed-Alike Functionality for Multi-Cabinet Projects
The real value shows up on commercial jobs. One key operates every lock in the #390 or #642 series. Install 50 file cabinets in an office building? One key for maintenance. Build out a school’s storage lockers? Teachers carry one master key instead of a janitor’s ring.
The 1-7/16” #642 lock adds Flexafunction — choose between 90° or 180° rotation during installation. That flexibility matters when you’re dealing with left-hand doors, right-hand doors, and drawers all on the same project. The reversible design works for either door orientation, cutting your inventory requirements in half.
Montana Climate Considerations
Die-cast zinc construction handles Montana’s temperature swings better than pot metal alternatives. The zinc doesn’t get brittle at -30°F like cheap alloys do. Brass finish options provide corrosion resistance — useful given Montana’s dry climate still produces condensation issues in unheated shops and garages where cabinets often end up.
Skip these if you’re securing anything valuable. Disc tumblers offer basic security, not Fort Knox protection. But for keeping honest people honest in break rooms, offices, and residential kitchens, they do the job without the hassle of high-security cylinders that cost three times as much.
The Bottom Line
Camloc brings 75-80 years of engineering expertise to their fastening products, and it shows in the details. Grade 2 durability ratings, thoughtful features like included cams for both mounting styles, and keyed-alike convenience make these locks contractor-friendly choices. They’re not trying to revolutionize cabinet security — just delivering disc tumbler locks that work reliably for thousands of cycles without jamming, breaking, or forcing you to carry 50 different keys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the actual difference between the #390 and #642 besides length? The #642 offers Flexafunction allowing either 90° or 180° rotation, while the #390 is limited to 90° with its stop washer. The #642 also handles thicker panels up to 1-1/8” versus 7/8” for the #390.
Can these be keyed differently instead of keyed alike? The research only mentions keyed-alike functionality. Standard practice suggests keyed-different options exist, but you’d need to verify with your supplier for specific keying options.
How does Grade 2 durability compare to residential locks? Grade 2 means 20,000+ cycles of key insertion and removal in testing. Most residential locks are Grade 3 (10,000 cycles). Grade 1 commercial locks hit 100,000+ cycles but cost significantly more.
Will these work in existing 3/4” cam lock holes? Yes, both models use the standard 3/4” (19mm) mounting hole diameter. They should drop into existing cam lock cutouts without modification.
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