Master Combination Lock Trick

[codescott]

This post will be a two parter. I will first off describe a manipulation trick i discovered and then ask a question I am curious about.

I read much about deriving a master combination padlock through mechanical manipulation. In short, listen for first number, and pulling up on the shackle and turning the dial and looking for inconsistencies to derive the third number. I was unhappy with having to listen to the internal dial set for the first number and wanted to find a new way. I discovered that if the lock is open, if you rest the shackle lightly inside it's corresponding hole so that is not quite in the locked position and turn your dial, the dial will pause 2 numbers to the right of the first number. If this information has already been found I have no read of it anywhere, but if not then you heard it here first folks.

My question:
I read a tutorial pertaining to the same Master Combination locks about how to make a master key for a particular series (in my case v 36.) It involved removing the hull from the padlock and grinding a key down to match the pins so they lift correctly. I thought to myself this idea might work despite being a lot of work. However, wouldn't it be easier to impression the lock? I have read the instructions on this site about impressioning and i must admit i am confused yet as to how the procedure is done to create a decent impression on a blank key. Additionally, Are these type of master combo lock keys sold in "blank" forms? Or could i buy something that would work just as well?

So tell me, you were trying to steal something from other people's stuff if you have a key for v36 padlocks?

[Timmy321]

I have a fairly old combo lock that I've had for a while...I have no idea what the code is, and this one doesn't have a key, or else I'd have it, it doesn't even have a place for one...just a combo lock...you can't shim the shackle...


I can probably post pics...

is it possible to find out the code?

[Still Learning]

Timmy,
Try going here: http://www.geocities.com/masterunlocked and see what you come up with. Most of the Master Combo's I had when I was back in HS all fell prey to the techniques that you'll find here. I don't think more than one of them ever took longer than 20 minutes to open.
Hope that helps you on your way.

[codescott]

I have a fairly old combo lock that I've had for a while...I have no idea what the code is, and this one doesn't have a key, or else I'd have it, it doesn't even have a place for one...just a combo lock...you can't shim the shackle...


I can probably post pics...

is it possible to find out the code?

Yes, i do have codebooks to tell the combo by serial#.....let me know the serial# and i'll verify if i have it
-Scott

[Exodus5000]

codescott.

First of all i resent that you presume i'm a criminal. I've got about 15 of these padlocks i purchased from my old high school. Secondly I don't think you should post on an open forum serial/combo information for a specific lock. What if the lock is not acctually his?

[YelseW]

Have you ever tried picking the keyhole? I have found this quite difficult. Does anyone have any pointers for this Master Lock combination padlock. It is series V55 with the keyhole at the back. Thank you.

[Buggs41]

Call a Locksmith.

[YelseW]

YES EXACTLY, this topic of conversation is perfect for my questions! I have the same problem. I'm trying to pick this keyhole in the back of my master lock but the resistence is outstandint even with sprayed WD-40 and other engineering cleaning sprays. I can only move the lock 1/8 clockwise. Any tips guys?

[MrB]

Any tips guys?

Sheesh. Talk about a broken record.

YelseW, while I have not had one in my hands, I understand that the Master lock you have is not terribly difficult to pick. If you can't open it successfully, it is presumably for one of two reasons:

1) You lack the necessary skill
2) The lock is broken or jammed in some way

In both cases the answer is, "give up already". Get some other examples of locks to practice on, of the same sort or different sorts. If you finally decide this particular lock is broken, then cut it open and see what is wrong inside it.

But please don't keep asking the same question over and over when it is clear nobody can tell you anything new.

[CaptHook]

Especially about a lock that doesnt belong to you........
Chuck

[Exodus5000]

Good lord, this is the second post I ever made back in April. Someones been digging through the bowels of LP101.

[Sabin37]

I'm trying to pick this keyhole in the back of my master lock but the resistence is outstandint even with sprayed WD-40 and other engineering cleaning sprays. I can only move the lock 1/8 clockwise. Any tips guys?

When I pick these keyways, they move about 1/8 of a turn like you said and then they require like twice as much tension to make the cylinder turn all the way.