Picking lever tumbler lock?

[dawg69]

Greetings all. I've been a long time lurker here, but have gotten frustrated to the point of asking a question. I've searched the site and have yet to find the information I'm after, so here it goes.

I was recently approached by a person who knows I dabble in picking and asked to try to open an old safe/footlocker that she inherited from her father. The lock appears to me to be a lever tumbler lock. The keyway spins freely. I do not have any pictures at this point, but will add some if I get a chance. Can someone get me started down the path of figuring out the tools and techniques I need to get this opened? Thanks in advance.

[eppiotic]

I'am not sure how much info I can say without getting in trouble with moderators, but there are different tools involved than the ones you use in standard pin tumbler locks. Try google

[dawg69]

Thanks. I tried Google, but really didn't get far. I'm curious as to why the mod's might disapprove. I read the rules and didn't see anything that was out of line in my post.

[eppiotic]

Check your messages I sent you some info

[Phatphish]

If you have been lurking here long enough you should know that safe opening is limited to the advanced forums.

Also there is the locksporters credo of never picking locks in use.

If your friend inherited the safe/footlocker they should have inherited the keys also? If not then a call to your local locksmith should get it open.

Sorry if this isnt the answer you were hoping to get, but I doubt you'll get a better one.

I reserve the right to be completely wrong tho'

[dawg69]

Okay, I was just looking for the challenge and hoping to do a favor at the same time. I was using the term "safe" loosely. It probably is more of a footlocker. I guess next time I will be more general in my questioning and just ask how to open a certain type of lock, which is really what I'm after. I guess consider this thread closed.

[globallockytoo]

Most foot lockers/trunks are not high security in any way and are not deemed "safes", so talking about them here shouldnt be any problem.

They keyway in your trunk, spins free because it is likely similar to a simple "Cheney" brand cupboard lock. Similar to a projection lock, where the keyway (profile) guides the key in. They usually have "belly" type levers inside. They are quite easy to pick, if you understand how.

Making a key is often easier than picking the lock.

[dawg69]

Thanks globallockytoo. Tell me if I'm completely wrong here, but would I pick it similarly to any other lever lock by applying tension to the bolt and then picking each lever? If so, do you recommend any particular tools, homemade or manufactured?

[globallockytoo]

Thanks globallockytoo. Tell me if I'm completely wrong here, but would I pick it similarly to any other lever lock by applying tension to the bolt and then picking each lever? If so, do you recommend any particular tools, homemade or manufactured?

Picking is similar to a Master warded padlock.

[nostromo]

For ideas on the picking tools to use, check out Walker in the UK at
http://walkerlocksmiths.co.uk/toolsmortices.htm

Since this is a totally new skill for you that will take a bit of research and either buying or making new tools, this must be a very good freind.

[dawg69]

Thanks, I'll check that out!

[unlisted]

Comon now guys- its NOT his lock, not his property, and probably is some type of strongbox.

He even used the word safe... that should stop chatter right there.