Goal V18

The V18 is a dimple lock made by GOAL. Drilled for 21 pins, it contains up to 19 active pins and two core-centering pins. Pins are arranged in rows of seven on the left, top, and right of the keyway.

'' Please note: the V18 is very similar to the smaller, nine-pin Goal D9 model. The two locks share the same pins, fundamental designs, and primary security features.''

Principles of operation


The GOAL V18 utilizes dimple keys but functions the same as a standard pin-tumbler lock. The lock uses 21 chambers for pin-tumbler stacks. Eighteen or nineteen of those chambers each contain a set of key pin, driver, and spring. The dimple key of the V18 has four cut depths for side pins and three, different cut depths for pins in the top row. The design offers 12 billion key differences when pinned with 18 active pins. The key is bitted on the sides and edges of the blade and is reversible. To open the lock, all active pin-tumblers -- across all three rows of pins -- must be aligned at the shear line. (See also Pin-tumbler, Principles of Operation)

GOAL utilizes a variety of security pins to deter picking. Active pin stacks incorporate seven total lengths of stainless steel key pins with two sizes of steel driver pins to match. The V18 uses a mix of thin and thick lipped mushroom spool drivers. Drivers are cupped to allow the spring to nest inside the pins. Key pins are a combination of t-pins and multi-section tapered spools which are torpedo shaped to create overset traps. These pin designs match overmilling of the pin chambers in the core to catch pins as they are lifted to shear. The top row of pin chambers in the bible is taller than the side rows in larger models of the V18. Brass spacer pins are placed above the spring to match the increase length of the pin chambers.

Two of the chambers, one on each side, contain a sprung bearing or "click ball" to bias the core. This core-centering mechanism consists of a pin with a concave top which sits in the core without entering the keyway and a ball bearing which sits in the bible. This click device acts as a detent when the key aligns the core to the locked position. Centering pin stacks are also distinguishable by their shorter and wider springs. The core-biasing bearings are always located one each on the left and right side of the lock, but the location within each row can vary.

Additionally, the V18 uses two, smaller "ward pins" to restrict access to the keyway. These pins are situated in holes in the core and do not interact with the bitting of the key.

Master keying the V18 involves strategically removing one or more pins to create one or more mastered versions. GOAL uses inactive, dummy key pins and drivers made of brass. They take the place of active pin stacks and do not interact with the key. Master key systems thus reduce the number of active pins.

Model variations


Two V18 cylinders are shown here:
 * A standard cylinder, model V-LX 5
 * A compact cylinder, V-TX

Both utilize the same components and general security features. The rim cylinder is larger, more robust, and incorporates steel ball bearings for drill protection. The compact cylinder features easy-to-remove bible covers and is much easier to re-pin.

The V18 system is available in a UL 437 rated cylinder.

Disassembly instructions
The GOAL V18 is disassembled in the same way as a traditional pin-tumbler cylinder.


 * 1) Remove the rear plate (standard cylinder) or C-clip (compact cylinder)
 * 2) Insert the key and turn the plug 30-45 degrees.
 * 3) Withdraw the plug from the cylinder. (A plug follower and core shims are strongly recommended)


 * Note: the three bible covers of the compact cylinder can be removed easily and non-destructively.
 * This makes gutting and re-pinning possible without removing the plug.