Editing Combination lock (section)

{{Short description|Lock using symbols rather than a key}}
{{Use Indian English|date=January 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2020}}
{{More citations needed|date=June 2009}}

[[File:5-digit Wordlock locked with combination Basin and hardened shackle.jpg|thumb|right|A [[Wordlock]] letter combination lock.]]
A '''combination lock''' is a type of [[Lock and key|locking device]] in which a [[sequence]] of symbols, usually numbers, is used to open the lock. The sequence may be entered using a single rotating dial which interacts with several discs or ''cams'', by using a set of several rotating discs with inscribed symbols which directly interact with the locking mechanism, or through an electronic or mechanical keypad. Types range from inexpensive three-digit [[luggage locks]] to high-security [[safe]]s. Unlike ordinary [[padlock]]s, combination locks do not use keys.

[[File:Combination discs.png|frame|Exploded view of the rotating discs. The notches on the disc correspond to the numerals in the correct combination. In this case, the combination is 9-2-4.]]
[[File:Combination unlocked.png|frame|The discs are mounted on one side of the lock, which may in turn be attached to the end of a chain or cable. The other side of the lock, or the other end of the cable, has a pin with several protruding teeth.]]
[[File:Combination locked.png|frame|When the toothed pin is inserted and the discs are rotated to an incorrect combination, the inner faces of the discs block the pin from being extracted.]]
[[File:CombinationLock.jpg|thumb|right|250px|A simple combination 
lock.]]