Where to get advanced locks for cheap for practice picking?

[melamine]

I've been to ReStore - but the locks don't usually get above a certain level - i want a bigger challenge, but where do i go? Can i go to my local locksmith and ask? Where are more advanced padlocks, IC best locks, etc...?

[nathane]

Have you thought about making the locks you have more difficult? Check out this thread for some insight into modifying existing pins into security pins that might add a bit of a challenge until you can find the locks you're looking for.

viewtopic.php?t=48900

[pin_pusher]

making your own locks more difficult can be a good practice for rekeying, seeing what their made of, and it makes oneself more familiar with what their picking...a good practice "high security" lock can be found if there is a building being constructed in your area; sometimes between manufacturer and construction contractor there is some ambiguity, so the locks don't always fit to the specs. you could ask either the manufacturer or contractor if it would be alright to have/buy the wrong size cores...no luck all the time, because a lot of those locks must go back to the manufacturer for repinning etc. but at least you may be able to get closer to contacting an actually distributor of some good locks. i did it at the building i'm working, and i think i've got a medeco keymark with sidebar coming to me...maybe i'm a lucky one, and this is an exception to the rule, but contacting the manufacturer seems to be the best idea. making an existing lock more difficult is probably cheaper.

[HirosStorageUnit]

I need to find more locks to help with my development. I have found just going to my trusted locksmith shop and asking for anything extra helps quite a bit. I have also been given locks by construction contractors after a demo.

[Squelchtone]

advanced lock for cheap is a contradiction of terms. If you stop by a locksmith they're always going to want $50-$90 for something fancy like a Medeco unless they have a junk bin of used beat up locks.

I'm surprised nobody has mentioned my favorite stomping ground. ebay.

ebay is your friend when it comes to any format of lock and pretty much any brand.

Prices can't be beat either, there are several threads here as well about "where can I get practice locks" please Search for them.

Squelchtone

[raimundo]

automotive locks from pick your part auto scrapyards, dont forget the windshield wipers while your there, and also find out from the metal scrappers the price of brass, you can offer more per pound if they hold any unusual and high security keys and locks. I have a friend who has found me a lot of unusual stuff this way over the years.
Some locksmiths will part with cylinders they have no keys for and cylinders they get from lock replacement jobs. you just have to try your personal charm/cash on them, not all are going to cooperate but for certain most of them will have stuff that is unusual but only taking up space in their shop so some social engineering may help. Be sure to call on them toward the end of the business day, this is the time when they may fewer jobs to rush through and will be willing to talk a while, whereas almost any locksmith is not interested in lock tourists earlier in the day.