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Posted: 11/4/2015 12:46:40 PM EDT
[#1]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Some of my stuff This rides in my wallet all the time. http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k121/ninelivez/20140310_095959.jpg The big kit. http://i40.tinypic.com/jqnmmu.jpg http://i42.tinypic.com/esw8ic.jpg http://i43.tinypic.com/34r6h7c.jpg http://i44.tinypic.com/bgydzr.jpg The kit that lives in the car http://i41.tinypic.com/313hu08.jpg My practice lock and a set I keep for other people to play with. http://i39.tinypic.com/14a8taw.jpg My latest acquisition, a Bogota set that pin inside my jacket. http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k121/ninelivez/Mobile%20Uploads/20150925_111719_1.jpg Are you a hobbyist or a pro? 
Those are some really nice kits. |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 12:49:30 PM EDT
[#2]
Quote HistoryQuoted: There's a blue point (snap on) automotive 37 piece set at a pawn shop I know of. They have it marked @ 120, but I could get them down a lot lower. Anyone know if this is worth the money?  IMHO, no. One its hard to find any information on the kit. It appears to be rather dated. Where I have been able to find any info, it seems it retails for about $180 and has lots of brand specific picks/tools. Without knowing exactly what years/models they covered its a fool's errand. I found a few posts about guys wanting the user manual/documentation for the kit on lockpicking forums. It met the same reaction as if you posted in GD asking for CAD files for a DIAS. |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 1:11:45 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Anyone know how to pick one of those circle key locks? I've got a hitch locked into my truck's receiver and the lock has seized up. Example: http://www.camlock.com/English(USA)/HTML/images/group_rptcamlocks.gif  |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 2:34:08 PM EDT
[#4]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I am leaning toward getting a lock stand of some sort because I am getting 'spoiled' holding the lock in my hand while I pick. I have found that I have issues with installed locks because I am not use to applying tension without feedback from both hands. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: I am a hobbyist, and mainly stick to padlocks and shit. Currently I am trying to get the hang of picking pin and tumbler door type locks, but I keep getting sidetracked. I am leaning toward getting a lock stand of some sort because I am getting 'spoiled' holding the lock in my hand while I pick. I have found that I have issues with installed locks because I am not use to applying tension without feedback from both hands.  |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 4:53:59 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
IMHO, no. One its hard to find any information on the kit. It appears to be rather dated. Where I have been able to find any info, it seems it retails for about $180 and has lots of brand specific picks/tools. Without knowing exactly what years/models they covered its a fool's errand. I found a few posts about guys wanting the user manual/documentation for the kit on lockpicking forums. It met the same reaction as if you posted in GD asking for CAD files for a DIAS. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
There's a blue point (snap on) automotive 37 piece set at a pawn shop I know of. They have it marked @ 120, but I could get them down a lot lower. Anyone know if this is worth the money? IMHO, no. One its hard to find any information on the kit. It appears to be rather dated. Where I have been able to find any info, it seems it retails for about $180 and has lots of brand specific picks/tools. Without knowing exactly what years/models they covered its a fool's errand. I found a few posts about guys wanting the user manual/documentation for the kit on lockpicking forums. It met the same reaction as if you posted in GD asking for CAD files for a DIAS. Gotcha, yeah that makes sense. Not much need for a set that can only get into 90's or earlier vehicles. I can't tell you how many times I could have helped someone at work if I had a pick set. As it is, everyone calls me when they leave their desk or cabinet keys at home. |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 10:25:14 PM EDT
[#6]
I hate arfcom I was an Ace that is moving and had 50% off items so I bought a crappy master lock and a even crappier warded lock
 in preparation for my lock picks. Unfortunately they were out of deadbolt locks 
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Posted: 11/4/2015 11:17:03 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
BosnianBill on Youtube has a ton of great videos.  https://youtu.be/R2r07NN21vM
https://youtu.be/gFlt9yjaoQUWell, not only did I just waste a ton of time watching those videos, but I just bought a pick set and practice lock. Arfcom costs me money again. 
Oh well, looks like fun, can't wait for the stuff to show up. Thanks for the links though, seriously, cool vids. |
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Posted: 11/4/2015 11:23:09 PM EDT
[#8]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Well, not only did I just waste a ton of time watching those videos, but I just bought a pick set and practice lock. Arfcom costs me money again. Oh well, looks like fun, can't wait for the stuff to show up. Thanks for the links though, seriously, cool vids. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: BosnianBill on Youtube has a ton of great videos. https://youtu.be/R2r07NN21vM https://youtu.be/gFlt9yjaoQUWell, not only did I just waste a ton of time watching those videos, but I just bought a pick set and practice lock. Arfcom costs me money again. Oh well, looks like fun, can't wait for the stuff to show up. Thanks for the links though, seriously, cool vids. The password is "evva3ks", that is e v v a 3 k s ETA the video it was mentioned in |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 1:31:23 AM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have this bookmarked for future purchases. SERE pick was mentioned on a defcon like talk I watched. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
http://shop.thetacticalmedic.com/Lock-Pick-Card-picks.htm Credit card sized for easy carry in your wallet. Six picks and four tension tools. I have this bookmarked for future purchases. SERE pick was mentioned on a defcon like talk I watched. I've got a couple sets of sere picks. They are great for simple shit locks like masters. They won't be your only picks if you get into it at all. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 2:03:28 PM EDT
[#10]
When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too.
(or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it. 
If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. 
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Posted: 11/5/2015 2:17:30 PM EDT
[#11]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too.
(or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it.
If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. I was wondering when you'd make an appearance.
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:31:59 PM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted: When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too. (or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it. If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. Sidebars make for an interesting obstacle. Right up until you can bypass them, like in the M3 and other locks. Of course I am still warming up to a Hi-Lo, 5 pin, with 3 spools. I have SPP'd it a handful of times, but I believe it to be more luck than anything else. I can get it to a false set pretty easily. Getting the order right is proving difficult. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:35:37 PM EDT
[#13]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I've got a couple sets of sere picks. They are great for simple shit locks like masters. They won't be your only picks if you get into it at all. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: http://shop.thetacticalmedic.com/Lock-Pick-Card-picks.htm Credit card sized for easy carry in your wallet. Six picks and four tension tools. I have this bookmarked for future purchases. SERE pick was mentioned on a defcon like talk I watched. I've got a couple sets of sere picks. They are great for simple shit locks like masters. They won't be your only picks if you get into it at all. I bought the entry card and a couple titans. They serve a purpose. Of course I have already upgraded my case, and ordered all sorts of picks/bypass tools. I will say that using the Titan as a tension wrench is a PITA. No feedback at all. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:38:11 PM EDT
[#14]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Are you a hobbyist or a pro?
Those are some really nice kits. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Some of my stuff This rides in my wallet all the time. http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k121/ninelivez/20140310_095959.jpg The big kit. http://i40.tinypic.com/jqnmmu.jpg http://i42.tinypic.com/esw8ic.jpg http://i43.tinypic.com/34r6h7c.jpg http://i44.tinypic.com/bgydzr.jpg The kit that lives in the car http://i41.tinypic.com/313hu08.jpg My practice lock and a set I keep for other people to play with. http://i39.tinypic.com/14a8taw.jpg My latest acquisition, a Bogota set that pin inside my jacket. http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k121/ninelivez/Mobile%20Uploads/20150925_111719_1.jpg Are you a hobbyist or a pro?
Those are some really nice kits. Hobbyist. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:39:11 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Gotcha, yeah that makes sense. Not much need for a set that can only get into 90's or earlier vehicles. I can't tell you how many times I could have helped someone at work if I had a pick set. As it is, everyone calls me when they leave their desk or cabinet keys at home. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: There's a blue point (snap on) automotive 37 piece set at a pawn shop I know of. They have it marked @ 120, but I could get them down a lot lower. Anyone know if this is worth the money? IMHO, no. One its hard to find any information on the kit. It appears to be rather dated. Where I have been able to find any info, it seems it retails for about $180 and has lots of brand specific picks/tools. Without knowing exactly what years/models they covered its a fool's errand. I found a few posts about guys wanting the user manual/documentation for the kit on lockpicking forums. It met the same reaction as if you posted in GD asking for CAD files for a DIAS. Gotcha, yeah that makes sense. Not much need for a set that can only get into 90's or earlier vehicles. I can't tell you how many times I could have helped someone at work if I had a pick set. As it is, everyone calls me when they leave their desk or cabinet keys at home. On a related note, what is the kit called that LE use most frequently for lockouts? It has some wedges and an inflatable whatever to open the door. Think it has a few reacher wires for hitting the handle/lock. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:41:53 PM EDT
[#16]
I got my first pick set in the mail last week, (HPC). Has 2 tension wrenches and 10 picks, (standard picks).
I had a few Master padlocks laying around that I used to mail some footlockers home from Afghanistan. I had my first lock picked about 30 seconds after trying.
I tried another Master that has a security pin in it and had it opened in about a minute. I haven't tried the doors to the house but I know our front door has a Kwikset in it so I'm pretty sure that would be easy. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 4:43:55 PM EDT
[#17]
 This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 7:03:10 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 7:12:45 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryQuoted: When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too. (or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it. If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 7:27:11 PM EDT
[#20]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
He recommends this as a great "book" and the only book you need https://www.dropbox.com/sh/cn9r7ezwkq1gvum/nZ4Heu4lr4 The password is "evva3ks", that is e v v a 3 k s ETA the video it was mentioned in http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI7Lx-73lU0
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
BosnianBill on Youtube has a ton of great videos. https://youtu.be/R2r07NN21vM
https://youtu.be/gFlt9yjaoQUWell, not only did I just waste a ton of time watching those videos, but I just bought a pick set and practice lock. Arfcom costs me money again.
Oh well, looks like fun, can't wait for the stuff to show up. Thanks for the links though, seriously, cool vids. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/cn9r7ezwkq1gvum/nZ4Heu4lr4 The password is "evva3ks", that is e v v a 3 k s ETA the video it was mentioned in http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI7Lx-73lU0
Here's a link to the PDF (same password). Link |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 7:27:36 PM EDT
[#21]
Not Lock Picks per Say......
About 35 years ago, I managed a Gas Station in Soda Springs, CA.... A guy walks in & said He locked His Keys in His Honda.... We drive back to His Car & I get out with My Slim Jim.... As I'm sliding it into the Door, he asked what the Slim Jim was for... I said to unlock the Door..... He replied that won't work..... I caught the lock mechanism on the First Try & opened the Door... It was the fastest I'd ever done one.... The Guy was standing there, with His Mouth Open, didn't believe it could be opened that easy......  |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 8:06:39 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
So out of curiosity what would a job like that pay? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too.
(or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it.
If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. If you can pick a GM sidebar, you can make more than I do. I have never seen a GM sidebar lock picked with standard lock picks, consistently by anyone in my 29 years in the business. I've seen pros better than I try and fail. I can't do it... and I love a challenge, but I wore out picks and got blisters trying. There is a special tool that was developed in the late 1980s, that does work (I have one), but it's nothing like the picks you guys are using. It does compromise the tumblers, so technically it is "picking" the lock.
FYI... I'm self employerd, have been since 1987 (worked for another locksmith in 1985 & 1986), and my current labor rate that I base my prices on is $60 per hour for working on locks, $75 per hour for safes. But I also must pay all the bills from that income... you'll never get paid anywhere near that working for someone else. 
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Posted: 11/5/2015 8:10:07 PM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted: If you can pick a GM sidebar, you can make more than I do. I have never seen a GM sidebar lock picked with standard lock picks, consistently by anyone in my 29 years in the business. I've seen pros better than I try and fail. I can't do it... and I love a challenge, but I wore out picks and got blisters trying. There is a special tool that was developed in the late 1980s, that does work (I have one), but it's nothing like the picks you guys are using. It does compromise the tumblers, so technically it is "picking" the lock. FYI... I'm self employerd, have been since 1987 (worked for another locksmith in 1985 & 1986), and my current labor rate that I base my prices on is $60 per hour for working on locks, $75 per hour for safes. But I also must pay all the bills from that income... you'll never get paid anywhere near that working for someone else. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too. (or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it. If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. If you can pick a GM sidebar, you can make more than I do. I have never seen a GM sidebar lock picked with standard lock picks, consistently by anyone in my 29 years in the business. I've seen pros better than I try and fail. I can't do it... and I love a challenge, but I wore out picks and got blisters trying. There is a special tool that was developed in the late 1980s, that does work (I have one), but it's nothing like the picks you guys are using. It does compromise the tumblers, so technically it is "picking" the lock. FYI... I'm self employerd, have been since 1987 (worked for another locksmith in 1985 & 1986), and my current labor rate that I base my prices on is $60 per hour for working on locks, $75 per hour for safes. But I also must pay all the bills from that income... you'll never get paid anywhere near that working for someone else. just wondering what one could make doing this for a living. Hell my picks have not even showed up yet |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 8:24:19 PM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I was wondering when you'd make an appearance. I never would've, if you didn't inform me this was here.
I NEVER even read posts or threads in GD, let alone post here. HTF & outdoors are the only arfcom forums I read anymore, but I always find lock picking threads to be "interesting".... if it weren't for these threads, I'd have never known Medeco locks could be picked with paper clips. 
Oh..... occasionally I'll look at BOTD too.
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Posted: 11/5/2015 8:33:25 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
nope never tried but I might go pick one up this weekend just wondering what one could make doing this for a living. Hell my picks have not even showed up yet Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
When you think you're good at picking pin tumbler locks, try this. Set up a 6 tumbler Schlage commercial cylinder with pins keyed to a key with alternating maximum adjacent cuts, then mount it on a door upside down (tumblers on the bottom). A Schlage lock keyed to work on a key with these 6 depths of cut beginning at bow (front) of key - 939393 - will tell you how good you are. Or 828282, 717171. Remember, the higher the number, the longer the bottom pin. Those who believe in bump keys should try them out on this set-up too.
(or use any other brand lock that uses cylinders machined from solid brass, not the el-cheapo cylinders of the die-cast zinc crap with plenty of tolerance and misaligned tumbler chambers, used by most Kwikset and 'residential grade' Schlage locks) FWIW... I've been a full-time professional locksmith for 29 years. Picking locks that have relatively close pin lengths (like a key cut to depths 34543) is fairly easy... I was doing it on my 1st day of picking instruction in locksmith school. It gets progressively harder on locks keyed with pins that have short pins next to long pins. If you can pick a Schlage keyed to 939393 in under 5 minutes, then you know you're getting the hang of it.
If you master that, go to an auto parts store and buy yourself a steering column mounted lock cylinder that fits a 1994 or older GM vehicle (like a Chevy PU truck) using "sidebar" wafers (key's only cut on one side, should be simple, right?). They're less than $10. If you can pick that one, I've got a job waiting for you. If you can pick a GM sidebar, you can make more than I do. I have never seen a GM sidebar lock picked with standard lock picks, consistently by anyone in my 29 years in the business. I've seen pros better than I try and fail. I can't do it... and I love a challenge, but I wore out picks and got blisters trying. There is a special tool that was developed in the late 1980s, that does work (I have one), but it's nothing like the picks you guys are using. It does compromise the tumblers, so technically it is "picking" the lock.
FYI... I'm self employerd, have been since 1987 (worked for another locksmith in 1985 & 1986), and my current labor rate that I base my prices on is $60 per hour for working on locks, $75 per hour for safes. But I also must pay all the bills from that income... you'll never get paid anywhere near that working for someone else.
just wondering what one could make doing this for a living. Hell my picks have not even showed up yet Don't bother, you won't have any success, trust me. Start with something simple... Kwikset, or a home center brand Taiwanese imported $5 doorknob.
Locksmithing entails much more than just picking locks. Electronics and other access control technologies are replacing pin tumbler locks now. I'm "old school", I want nothing to do with the "new" stuff, and I'm semi-retired now anyway, so I don't have to learn the new technologies to stay in business. Pay is good for someone who knows all aspects, but hours can be long (especially for the self employed guys... you are "on call" ALWAYS!!! ) |
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Posted: 11/5/2015 9:33:28 PM EDT
[#26]
rfb45colt, Sent Ya a Lock/Key question by PM......
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Posted: 11/5/2015 10:22:30 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Don't bother, you won't have any success, trust me. Start with something simple... Kwikset, or a home center brand Taiwanese imported $5 doorknob. Locksmithing entails much more than just picking locks. Electronics and other access control technologies are replacing pin tumbler locks now. I'm "old school", I want nothing to do with the "new" stuff, and I'm semi-retired now anyway, so I don't have to learn the new technologies to stay in business. Pay is good for someone who knows all aspects, but hours can be long (especially for the self employed guys... you are "on call" ALWAYS!!! ) |
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Posted: 11/6/2015 12:18:19 AM EDT
[#28]
Quoted:
The thread about shooting locks got me to buy a basic pick set and challenge lock. Its been fun re-learning this stuff. So anyone else enjoy the hobby? What kind of tools/picks/etc do you keep on hand? Just have this basic kit I bought way back when I was a small-town cop. 
ETA- Didn't realize I had posted once already early in this thread. |
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Posted: 11/6/2015 9:14:30 PM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. |
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Posted: 11/6/2015 9:32:01 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I always found it odd that the Master LOTO locks have a security pins and the normal line of locks are complete garbage. I'm thinking there are some paranoid lawyers somewhere in the equation. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. |
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Posted: 11/7/2015 1:37:18 AM EDT
[#31]
GRRRRRRRRRRRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr just noticed that there is a week wait for my practice lock
. Maybe I will have to make some picks for work in the meantime.I am thinking normal picks in something like this |
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Posted: 11/7/2015 2:59:20 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. I have had it for over a month and still have yet to open it. Or even come close. |
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Posted: 11/7/2015 4:48:23 PM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. He locked His keys inside a shipping container, he had for his tools/spare parts..... I didn't have a key to that lock, but had 6-7 different Master Locks keys on my ring.... I tried each of them & one of them worked by putting torsion on the key & jiggling it as I pulled it out... I've done this many times over the years, on different Master Padlocks..... |
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Posted: 11/7/2015 8:23:04 PM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I was at a friends trucking company lot, where I rented a space to park my big rig... He locked His keys inside a shipping container, he had for his tools/spare parts..... I didn't have a key to that lock, but had 6-7 different Master Locks keys on my ring.... I tried each of them & one of them worked by putting torsion on the key & jiggling it as I pulled it out... I've done this many times over the years, on different Master Padlocks..... Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41H6icC6SRL.jpg This bastard has proved to me that I suck. At best I can get about 3 pins set. Yep, that's probably the hardest lock I've come up against. I'll admit though, I've not actually tried to "pick" it, I'm more of a "rake" and go kinda guy. He locked His keys inside a shipping container, he had for his tools/spare parts..... I didn't have a key to that lock, but had 6-7 different Master Locks keys on my ring.... I tried each of them & one of them worked by putting torsion on the key & jiggling it as I pulled it out... I've done this many times over the years, on different Master Padlocks..... |
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Posted: 11/8/2015 4:10:18 PM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryQuote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: I was at a friends trucking company lot, where I rented a space to park my big rig... He locked His keys inside a shipping container, he had for his tools/spare parts..... I didn't have a key to that lock, but had 6-7 different Master Locks keys on my ring.... I tried each of them & one of them worked by putting torsion on the key & jiggling it as I pulled it out... I've done this many times over the years, on different Master Padlocks..... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIq9khF-axsCut the Head off a Zip Tie, leaving a Short Tail on it..... Slide the rest of the Zip Tie thru the Head... & use it as a Tension Wrench......  |
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Posted: 11/8/2015 4:30:43 PM EDT
[#36]
What are y'all buying for picks and where from, I can't spend more than $50 to get my feet wet though with his adventure.
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Posted: 11/8/2015 4:36:18 PM EDT
[#37]
Quote HistoryQuoted: What are y'all buying for picks and where from, I can't spend more than $50 to get my feet wet though with his adventure. or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. |
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Posted: 11/8/2015 7:58:52 PM EDT
[#38]
Quote HistoryQuoted: For a first set I'd get this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=S-0 or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: What are y'all buying for picks and where from, I can't spend more than $50 to get my feet wet though with his adventure. or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. |
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Posted: 11/8/2015 11:51:23 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryQuoted: For a first set I'd get this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=S-0 or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: What are y'all buying for picks and where from, I can't spend more than $50 to get my feet wet though with his adventure. or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. Get some heat shrink tubing for the handles. Those bare picks can really wear down your hands if you practice much. |
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Posted: 11/9/2015 12:03:44 AM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Get some heat shrink tubing for the handles. Those bare picks can really wear down your hands if you practice much. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: What are y'all buying for picks and where from, I can't spend more than $50 to get my feet wet though with his adventure. or this: http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/tux1.htm You don't need anything more than what's in those kits while you are first learning. Get some heat shrink tubing for the handles. Those bare picks can really wear down your hands if you practice much.  |
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Posted: 11/9/2015 9:24:00 AM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryQuoted: i was thinking plastidip http://ace.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pACE3-5947464enh-z7.jpg That would work too. I just happened to have heat shrink tubing on hand. But something has to be on those handles or it will eat your hands up. |
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Posted: 11/9/2015 4:08:55 PM EDT
[#42]
Dont drink and E-bay
Pics of 2 pounds of lock random cylinder pins to follow. I also bought a rekey kit and some other goodies
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Posted: 11/11/2015 5:48:53 PM EDT
[#43]
Where did everyone go? I was hoping we could do a challenge lock exchange sometime sooon.
I got my brass rod for handles and my titanium sheets should be here by the end of the week. |
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Posted: 11/12/2015 2:51:55 AM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Where did everyone go? I was hoping we could do a challenge lock exchange sometime sooon. I got my brass rod for handles and my titanium sheets should be here by the end of the week. Im still here. Just haven't done much with my picks as of late. I need to get some more locks. All I have is my one challenge lock, and a couple POS master locks which aren't very fun anymore. |
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Posted: 11/12/2015 3:31:40 AM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Im still here. Just haven't done much with my picks as of late. I need to get some more locks. All I have is my one challenge lock, and a couple POS master locks which aren't very fun anymore. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Where did everyone go? I was hoping we could do a challenge lock exchange sometime sooon. I got my brass rod for handles and my titanium sheets should be here by the end of the week. Im still here. Just haven't done much with my picks as of late. I need to get some more locks. All I have is my one challenge lock, and a couple POS master locks which aren't very fun anymore.  |
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Posted: 11/12/2015 3:43:03 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted: you were talking abut mounting your practice lock somehow I ran across a pic that had one mounted in a pipe clamp like this https://d2t1xqejof9utc.cloudfront.net/screenshots/pics/e65347f8f532379f3646e87b8c6ff3b7/medium.JPG Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: Where did everyone go? I was hoping we could do a challenge lock exchange sometime sooon. I got my brass rod for handles and my titanium sheets should be here by the end of the week. Im still here. Just haven't done much with my picks as of late. I need to get some more locks. All I have is my one challenge lock, and a couple POS master locks which aren't very fun anymore. https://d2t1xqejof9utc.cloudfront.net/screenshots/pics/e65347f8f532379f3646e87b8c6ff3b7/medium.JPG I am looking at this  |
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Posted: 11/12/2015 4:22:19 AM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I am looking at this http://learnlockpicking.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Ultimate-Competition-Lock-Stand1-400x400.jpg Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: Quoted: Where did everyone go? I was hoping we could do a challenge lock exchange sometime sooon. I got my brass rod for handles and my titanium sheets should be here by the end of the week. Im still here. Just haven't done much with my picks as of late. I need to get some more locks. All I have is my one challenge lock, and a couple POS master locks which aren't very fun anymore. https://d2t1xqejof9utc.cloudfront.net/screenshots/pics/e65347f8f532379f3646e87b8c6ff3b7/medium.JPG I am looking at this http://learnlockpicking.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Ultimate-Competition-Lock-Stand1-400x400.jpg |
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Posted: 11/12/2015 5:01:22 AM EDT
[#48]
Quote HistoryQuoted: almost bought one of those but thought about a vice like Bosnian bill uses. It really does not matter though I bought way more stuff than I should have off ebay and I still dont even have any picks The reason I like that one is its portable. I drag my picks and locks into work and pick when it gets slow, or I am in meetings. Having something I could clamp on to my desk at work, or coffee table at home would be nice. I managed to stay away from Ebay, but I went a little order happy at Sparrows. I ended up order a couple times a week for a little while. Which reminds me, I replaced the lock on my front door because the handle was all jacked up. I need to gut the core out of that thing and play around. Its one of those Kwikset Smartkeys. |
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Posted: 11/13/2015 12:44:21 AM EDT
[#49]
Got some stuff in today
ETA that is 2 pounds of mixed pins    |
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Posted: 11/13/2015 1:05:01 AM EDT
[#50]
Wow! |
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