HELLO ALL & THE CENTURY LOCK

[xorb]

I would like to say hey to you all out there in lock land.

Also a big Q the 2 in 1 pick I have can go in side an uncurtined old lock that I have just taken out of a door. Although it cannot be used because of a warding device I suppose which mimics a curtain. The key has cuts to bypass this ward and obvoiusly allow the key to turn, bu the 2 in 1 obviously has no use. Any tips?? I hope you know what I mean, my terminology might be a bit different to everyone elses!!

XORB

[horsefeathers]

The vast majority of mortice locks with warde keyways are going to be 2 or 3 lever. I suggest that you pratice using two wires to pick these as they will be a straightforward pick. One wire to engage bolt with some tension and the other wire to push up each lever, keep prodding away at each lever and it will pop in seconds.

You could also file the warding off the keyway in theory to allow the 2-in1 to enter, but why bother (and reduce security of lock) when above method works fine.

regards

[xorb]

mmm yeh thats easy for 2 and 3 lever locks but im talking a strange profile key. This is a standard flat blank 5 lever key. The ward is not vertical in the keyway it is actually horizontal in what a curtain would be exept there is a gap for the key to turn. Does anyone else know what i mean??

[horsefeathers]

I know what you mean now - but what i said about the wires still applies, a good set of wires comes in a variety of end shapes to deal with most locks of this type you will encounter.

For these types of locks you can make 'skeleton' keys - whereby the sides of the key bit that contact the warding is removed. Get a blank and remove the cap from the lock so you can see the internals work. Insert the key from below and see how it interacts internally with the warding, lever(s) and bolt, and what you need to alter on the key. You may then find that the key you produced will open up a few other similar locks with or without manipulation.

regards

[Shrub]

2/3 lever try out keys work very well,

[horsefeathers]

They most certainly do of course. It's just that sometimes I get the feeling that the art of 'picking' gets lost in the search for the quick solution. I admit that on the customer's doorstep I would reach for the 2/3 tryout keys, but it is nice to have the ability to use the wires if needed, applying tension and getting a feel for those individual levers. A more satisfying pick!

regards

[Shrub]

Oh of course im totally with you, i was merely giving a differant option,