What does Schlosser mean in German?

In German, "Schlosser" is a craftsman who works with metal — usually translated as locksmith, machinist or metal worker. The plural "Schlösser" additionally means locks (as in door and case locks) and, in another sense, castles. In the context of case construction at LTT, "Schlösser" refers to the metal locks and latches — butterfly latches, snap locks, recessed builder locks and cylinder locks — used to seal flight cases and transport cases.

What is the difference between butterfly latches, snap locks and cylinder locks?

Butterfly latches, snap locks and cylinder locks differ in security, speed and locking ability. A butterfly latch folds flat and applies strong, vibration-proof clamping tension, making it ideal for the main seal of touring cases. A snap lock snaps shut and opens with a single pull, so it is fastest for frequently opened cases. A cylinder lock adds key-lockable security for valuable or sensitive equipment. Many professional flight cases combine all three: butterfly latches for the seal, snap locks for quick access and cylinder locks where contents must stay locked.

Which locks are suitable for flight case and case construction?

For flight case and case construction, four lock types are suitable: butterfly latches for the tightest, vibration-resistant seal on touring cases; snap locks for fast one-hand opening on accessory and DJ cases; recessed builder locks that sit flush for protected, stackable profiles; and cylinder locks for key-lockable security on rack cases and valuable gear. At LTT all four types are available in galvanised steel and zinc die-cast, with silver or black finishes, so you can equip any professional case exactly as your project requires.

What material are case locks made of?

Case locks for flight case construction are typically made of galvanised steel or zinc die-cast. Galvanised steel is the standard for butterfly and snap latches because it is strong, corrosion-resistant and affordable. Zinc die-cast is used for cylinder and recessed locks where a precise cast shape is needed. Finishes come in bright galvanised silver for a classic look or black powder-coat for discreet stage-black builds. Choosing a consistent material and finish across your locks, hinges and corner protectors gives your case a professional, coherent result.

How do I install a lock on a flight case?

To install a lock on a flight case, first assemble the lid and base in the closed position and mark the lock body on the base half. Transfer the catch position to the lid so both parts align under tension, then pre-drill the rivet holes through the panel and base plate together. Most case locks are fixed with 4–5 mm blind rivets set from the outside for a clean, vibration-proof hold. Keep clearance from corners and ball-corners, then close the case to check that the lock builds firm clamping tension.

Which lock suits a rack case best?

For a rack case holding amplifiers, matrix systems or network gear, a combination of recessed builder locks and cylinder locks usually works best. Recessed builder locks sit flush so the case stacks cleanly in a truck and the lock is protected from knocks. Cylinder locks add key-lockable security to protect valuable rack equipment against unauthorised access — important for broadcast, BOS/radio and high-value installations. For heavy 19" rack cases moved frequently on tour, adding butterfly latches on the main seal gives extra vibration resistance.

What does a lock for case construction cost?

The price of a lock for case construction depends on the type, material and finish. Simple snap locks and small butterfly latches are the most affordable case hardware, while key-lockable cylinder locks and larger recessed builder locks cost more due to their added mechanism. At LTT you find case locks across a wide price range, and orders over €69 ship free within Germany. If you are building a whole case fleet, ask us about wholesale conditions — as your specialist we help you find the most cost-effective set for your project.

Which accessories do I need alongside case locks?

Alongside case locks you typically need corner protectors and ball-corners to shield edges and enable stacking, hinges to pair with the locks on the opposite lid edge, and handles for safe lifting. Blind rivets are the standard fixing, and stacking dishes or feet keep cases secure in a truck. For a professional result, match the finish — galvanised silver or black — across all hardware. At LTT you can source locks together with the full range of case construction material so every part of your flight case works as one coherent system.

Locks

Adam Hall Hardware 17280 P Butterfly Verschluss mittel ungekröpft 14 mm ti

Adam Hall Hardware 17280 P - Butterfly Latch medium non cranked 14 mm deep padlockable

Butterfly Latch medium non cranked 14 mm deep padlockable Our V3, V4 and V5 Butterflies have a patented ´push-down` mechanism that lifts the hook out of the keeper plate on opening and leads...