My personal review of "Steel Bolt Hacking"

[CitySpider]

Here's some suggestions for you, Doug. But first: I haven't read your book. You asked why we were insulting you and your work, so I'm answering.

1) I'm not sure how good you are at picking locks, but I'm getting the impression that you're printing a bunch of stuff that you haven't tried, firsthand. I strongly suggest that you get someone who knows their stuff to proofread it for you. I have hundreds of posts just to correct information people got from Bond movies and so-called anarchy sites, and I'm not looking forward to correcting all the posts that're going to start "But Chick's book told me..."

2) I haven't read the book, but you've admitted that you can't spell. Either learn proper grammar or find someone who knows it. If I want to read garbled nonsense, I'll get on the internet.

3) For that matter, if your sole purpose is to get networking people into lockpicking, why not just point them to the MIT guide?

4) For that matter, if your sole purpose is to get networking people into lockpicking, why are you publishing a book instead of posting a text file to the internet? I've long thought that we need a replacement file for the MIT guide, since it's lacking in a good handful of ways.

5) If you're compiling a list of terms from a variety of sources, you are taking people's work. It doesn't matter whether that was your intention or not. Either credit them or write your own list of terms.

6) Nobody's upset because you wasted anyone's time printing information that they already knew, and I'm offended that you'd think we're that shortsighted. After all, if that's why people were irritated, we'd all be really pissed at the authors of the MIT guide too. For that matter, at the author of EVERY book on picking locks, except Tobias.

[dougchick]

Here's some suggestions for you, Doug. But first: I haven't read your book. You asked why we were insulting you and your work, so I'm answering.

1) I'm not sure how good you are at picking locks, but I'm getting the impression that you're printing a bunch of stuff that you haven't tried, firsthand. I strongly suggest that you get someone who knows their stuff to proofread it for you. I have hundreds of posts just to correct information people got from Bond movies and so-called anarchy sites, and I'm not looking forward to correcting all the posts that're going to start "But Chick's book told me..."

2) I haven't read the book, but you've admitted that you can't spell. Either learn proper grammar or find someone who knows it. If I want to read garbled nonsense, I'll get on the internet.

3) For that matter, if your sole purpose is to get networking people into lockpicking, why not just point them to the MIT guide?

4) For that matter, if your sole purpose is to get networking people into lockpicking, why are you publishing a book instead of posting a text file to the internet? I've long thought that we need a replacement file for the MIT guide, since it's lacking in a good handful of ways.

5) If you're compiling a list of terms from a variety of sources, you are taking people's work. It doesn't matter whether that was your intention or not. Either credit them or write your own list of terms.

6) Nobody's upset because you wasted anyone's time printing information that they already knew, and I'm offended that you'd think we're that shortsighted. After all, if that's why people were irritated, we'd all be really pissed at the authors of the MIT guide too. For that matter, at the author of EVERY book on picking locks, except Tobias.

I'm a very talented lock picker. As a locksmith, he just didn't like some of the verbiage. Like top pin and set pins. My book is very accurate, in terms of getting the job done. However, as a professional locksmith, it must have been irritating for him to see a different word usage.

As computer people get more involved with lock picking, with such events as DefCon, I think that we/they will adapt their own slang to the art and it will go in another directions

Doug

[Chucklz]

To use odd/incorrect terms is a very dangerous practice indeed. The cable that currently runs to my box is Cat5e, not "Ethernet". I am using a mouse not a "Logitech (regardless of the name on it). I use shell scripts, not "little fix it programs" To use odd terminology is to willingly create a rift in the community, making it difficult to communicate and express ideas.

But, I think the idea that was being expressed was that, perhaps in future editions, more careful research is necessary.

[CitySpider]

Some more points. Wow, I'm on a roll tonight, aren't I?

1) I'm sure you already did this in your book, in order to establish your credibility, but could you give me something a little more concrete than "I'm very talented?"

2) I know that Varjeal's problem was with your misuse of terminology. My problems are with your lack of research and your sub-par writing skills. See the following:

<quote>Steel Bolt Hacking is a lock picking book for those that want to learn the art of picking locks as a hobby. With such annual events as DefCon, the annual hackers convention, more and more computer people are becoming interested in learning lock picking. Lock picking sports groups are springing up all over the world with little or no books to support it. Typically the art of lock picking is passed down from locksmith to apprentice and rarely are there any material to help those interested in lock picking, that don't necessarily want to become a locksmith to learn it. Steel Bolt Hacking will teach you more than just the basics, you will learn to pick padlocks, deadbolts, push button combination locks, and how find the number on combination padlocks.</quote>

The above is from http://www.thenetworkadministrator.com/ ... ltbook.htm

First sentence is repetitive, but otherwise okay. Cut the first "lock picking." Second sentence: hacker's convention. Possessive. And cut the first annual. Third sentence: They're springing up all over the world? Really? I know of three -- there's Germany, TOOOL, and then the newer one in Britain run by some guy on these forums. Also, you want "few," not little. And actually there're QUITE a few books for the beginning lock picker, it's just that most of them suck. Fourth sentence: IS there any material. WHO don't necessarily want, and actually, you should change it to "those who are interested in lockpicking, but who don't want to become a locksmith." Fifth sentence: Didn't you just tell me that this book WAS to teach you the basics? And you're trying to find the combination (or even the numbers, plural), not the number. Oh, and while I'm here, your slugline -- A website devoted to computer professional -- and some not so professional -- should be "computer professionals" or "the computer professional" and should be "and some who aren't so professional."

I downloaded your sample, and to be honest with you, it's not _bad_, once I force myself to look through the writing errors. Your pictures are very well done. However, statements like "padlock shims work on most padlocks" and "it can take up to thirty minutes to pick a lock" really hurt your credibility, as does the fact that you start with an explanation of how lock picking can't be used for theft because it takes too long and go on to mention how you've shimmed locks open in ten seconds.

I'm all for writing a good beginner's treatise on lockpicking. If I wasn't so insanely busy at present, I'd give it a shot myself. But if you're going to do it, and you're going to charge people for it, take the extra week or the extra month and do it right. There's more than enough EASY PICKINGS trash out there already.

[WhiteHat]

Hi there,

after reading doug's posts, I feel I should appologise for my previous post in which I suggested breaking copywrite laws in the fine print.

I first got interested in lockpicking after reading Kevin Mitnik's book "art of deception" where he describes on instance where he lockpicked a cabinet that held a server and changed some wiring arround and won himself $100.

I do believe computer programmers by nature are problem solvers and that a book directed at that target group would go down well if written well.

I also believe that free information would go down even better (such as a replacement for the MIT guide as cityspider suggested)

You kinda sound like a money hungry computer programer who thinks he will make friends by saying - soo can you pick this kwikset.
....&^%$ you and dont come back.... a^s hole

Luke, this really is a poor attitude: grow up.

Cheers!
WhiteHat

[dougchick]

Due to a generous contribution (thank you and you know who you are) I received "Steel Bolt Hacking" by Douglas Chick in the mail last week. As soon as I received the package I ripped it open, turned on some tunes, flopped on the couch, and started into the book. I'm a fairly quick reader, and so absorbed the 92pages in short order. (the last pages are all try-out combos)

The cover of the book itself is very interesting with good color, and lots of interesting little tidbits if you take the time to look closely.

Unfortunately, that's about the best I can say about the book.

1. The editor of the book should have been fired when that book was printed. Bad grammer, misuse of words, poor terminology, and outright misinformation abound throughout the book.

Most of the bad grammar seems to be the result of dependency upon a spell check program as opposed to actually have someone read through it.

2. Oh, I forgot to mention one other positive, some pretty decent photo's and diagrams (standard 'net stuff.)

3. Spends a lot of time (and pages) on Master combination locks. Is this bad? Well, I personally kinda felt so...after all, the book is on lock PICKING".

4. Repetition. The frequent suggestion that a paper clip and hairpin are adequate tools is rather..hmm...maybe I'll leave that one alone.

5. The "how much tension" portion of the "guide" equals a total of 2 paragraphs, not even found in the same portion of the "guide". I think everyone knows my thoughts about that subject.

6. It's a personal issue I have when it comes to guides, etc. This one just seemed too...well...friendly. Maybe I've been in the "biz" too long, but in parts this book seemed more of a "My personal journey through the world of lockpicking" rather than a guide.

7. One my pet peeves.....the blatant rip-off of the terminology thread on this site, and then has the audacity to "copyright" the info.. Yes, I do know that a couple of the terms have been changed and even one or two added, but wouldn't you find it kind of interesting that the terminology section begins with the EXACT term that is listed on this site.

[rant on] I have no idea who Mr. Chick really is, his experience level or knowledge, other than what was listed in his book. I am personally ticked off about people who think they can blatantly rip off other people's information, then copyright it as if it were their own idea. I mean, get REAL. I bust my butt to inform, educate, and sometimes re-educate in concerns to proper terminology, technique, and use of terms. When I see someone trying to pass stuff like that on as something worthwhile, it really gets to me. I mean, a simple read through the FAQ's on this site (other than blatantly copy and pasting info) would have corrected TONS of misinformation) [/rant off]

Whew....now that I've calmed down a bit, I can say this. Please don't waste your money buying this book. Spend the $20 and buy some new picks, or a dremel or grinder or something.

I know I might receive a message or email from Mr. Chick concerning his book, and I'm sorry I had to rip his book apart, but other than for a casual read and a good chuckle, (and maybe the section on Master combo locks) this book is pretty much not worth it.

With respect to Varjeal, whom I know is a professional locksmith; this book is not written for a professional, this book was written for computer people that want the fast track to becoming a lock picker and join in on the lock picking events that are slowly cropping up across the country. The terms and definitions are a slang used by computer people. And although they might irritate a locksmith, they do the job on teaching you how to pick a lock, crack a combination and use a padlock shim.

Varjeal is correct when he says that the book uses bad grammar, misuse of words, poor terminology, because it differs from what he knows as a locksmith, and quiet frankly I don’t blame him for being indifferent to the book. But Steel Bolt Hacking is exactly what you will need to know to participate in any lock-picking contest at any computer hacker’s convention.

This book is intended to bring more computer people into the art lock picking so we can generate enough bodies to form a lock picking sports group like in Germany. I’ve chatted with Varjeal, and Chucklz with helping me make this book a little more locksmith friendly, but in my own defense, this book isn’t about locksmiths. I believe with the participation of computer people to the sport, it will turn in a slightly different direction.

Douglas Chick

[CobraOne]

lets try to keep this post from turnning into something it's not. If two people have a problem work it out with Pm's or E-mails. Please don't use this board to clear the Air.... Please....

[salzi684]

Doug, I highly respect Varjeal as a locksmith and as a lock picker and if you have his blessing you have mine. I understand why the terminology differs from what many of the people on this forum and I am familiar with but I ask this, I am not a computer person (computers hate me and I am not to fond of them) so when I use incorrect terminology around them they flip out. It only makes sense that if they use incorrect terminology around me I am entitled to the same, so when you edit the book for its second publication could you please try and use standard terminology.

Luke, you are entitled to your opinion but it did not help anyone and just makes the forums look very unprofessional.

I don't own this book but from what everyone else has said it covers what is necessary to get started in lock picking. Therefore I would say that it serves its intended purpose and I only wish there were more books written on this subject. Take heed to the useful suggestions made and I wish you good luck in the revising process.

[Varjeal]

Just in case anyone is wondering, including Luke, I deleted his messages. This site is no place for personal attacks, and they are not tolerated. Differences of opinion inteligently stated are fine. Personal attacks are not.

Regarding the "locksmith" issue, here's my take. I know that I am locksmith, I also know that the easiest way for people to communicate is to have a similar level of language and vocabulary. Terminology is an important part of communication. When I phone my supplier for tools or parts, I use common terminology that allows the supplier to take my request and fulfill the need that I have. Using that same terminology I can access this site and chat with Chucklz or CitySpider about the difficulties in picking serrated pins with a half-diamond pick, and how the cam on the back of the lock cylinder affects tension, and both will know exactly what I'm talking about.

I'm quite sure it's the same with computer languages. The more common the use of similar terminology, the easier it is to communicate. This works the same in all areas of life. I do understand that many different "trades" will use similar terms for different purposes, but in the end in leads to nothing but miscommunication. Why not accept a standard lingo already in use and accepted by professionals around the world?

It's not difficult terminology, and beginner's can use it just as readily as experts. I'm not trying to force my terminology on anyone, but again (I know I'm being repetitive) good communication is the key to good teaching and understanding.

I personally don't believe in "fast-tracking". Lockpicking, like anything else done well, is an acquired skill. There are basics to be learned that combine learning, technique, and basic coordination to start. Taught right, lock picking can be an enjoyable hobby and sport. Taught poorly, it will leave the interested at the best bored, and at the worst, frustrated.

[myname1960]

Ok i have been reading the posts on this book. As a "true" beginner in lock picking will this book benefit me at the beginning only to confuse me later on when i try to advance my skills when search for additional information.
I would think knowing the correct terminalogy and techniques from the beginning should benefit me the most.
I was mulling over the possibility of getting this book before i read this review. I don't want to buy the book because it has a cool looking cover.
As i mentioned before i am a true beginner and want to be taught but taught correctly.
Hopefully i haven't confused anyone other then myself
Later,
Chris

[toomush2drink]

Been watching this thread with interest for a bit now and its does seem quite interesting.I have to side with vargeal on this as the incorrect terminology will most definitley slow any progress as the skill level improves.How many times have we seen spool pins called mushroom pins and things like that etc on the forum ? Remember if the foundations of a building are strong it will last for years.
I must admit i dont like hearing statements like

I'm a very talented lock picker.

especially in a discussion with professionals over terminology, a little big headed in my books.Dont empty vessels make the most noise ?
One thing that i think is missing from this debate is the fact that lock picking is a physical skill as opposed to the mental skills of computers.Like all physical skills it takes time to develop muscle memory and experience. I myself have been picking about 3 years on and off and seriously in the past few months to enter the profession.I dont regard myself as good or talented just competent, i have found modesty gets a better response from others everytime.
May i ask doug how long you have been lockpicking after all you are very talented.

[CitySpider]

Chris,

I would strongly suggest that you start with the FAQs here. Read them all, even if you don't quite understand what you're reading yet. Then go read the MIT guide (which has some screwed up terminology, but it's mostly pick names). That's really all you need, especially when you've got a couple dozen people here who would love to answer any questions you might have, as long as they're not in the FAQs or the guide or the archives (at least, not in the archives a hundred times).

Someone really ought to make a "mistakes/inaccuracies/dated information found in the MIT guide" FAQ.

Spider

[mbell]

I apologise if I'm pointing out the obvious, but if Varjeal has said all the bad things about this book, and others seem to agree with many points, why is the book still advertised on the side of LP101?

[myname1960]

Chris,

I would strongly suggest that you start with the FAQs here. Read them all, even if you don't quite understand what you're reading yet. Then go read the MIT guide (which has some screwed up terminology, but it's mostly pick names). That's really all you need, especially when you've got a couple dozen people here who would love to answer any questions you might have, as long as they're not in the FAQs or the guide or the archives (at least, not in the archives a hundred times).

Someone really ought to make a "mistakes/inaccuracies/dated information found in the MIT guide" FAQ.

Spider

Spider,
Thanks for the reply. I have been doing a lot of searching on this site as well as the internet. I am a firm believer on doing the bookwork 1st.
I do have the "MIT" guide and have been looking through it as well. I think if there was an area which discussed the "mistakes/inaccuracies/dated information found in the MIT guide" as you suggested would be most helpful as the "MIT" guide is often used as a starting place for information.
I have been thinking about trying to make some of my own tools as others have. Is there an area that has true scale size pictures of some of the tools? I know i have seen many pictures of tools but not sure as the scale of these pictures. Many thanks,
Chris

[Varjeal]

In regards to the original topic of this thread I've decided to lock this thread. It seems that some printing/duplicating problems were not made known to the author until AFTER the first bunch went out. To his, credit, I've been informed that there has been a recall, that a new corrected edition will be sent out in a month or so.

I'd like to publicily thank Mr. Chick for apologizing for this mistake and for taking my opinions into consideration, and am pleased that he has taken the (expensive) proper route of correcting and reissuing of the book. Because of that, I'll be re-reviewing the book upon it's re-release, and am confident that the revised edition will be well worth reading. Until that time, this subject is put to rest.

Thanks all for participation.