"The Long Lock" HELP!!!!!

[slp2245]

I recently purchased a 1940's army trunk that has a lock labeled "the long lock" and it accidentally closed on me. The front piece of the lock turns freely but I can't pick it no matter what I try... any suggestions?

[chriswingate]

Upload a full picture of the trunk and lock in question so we can get a better idea of what you need help with.

[slp2245]

Its telling me the "board attachment quota has been reached" it won't let me add a photo

[chriswingate]

Yeah you have to upload the picture to a third party like photobucket or similar, then link it here using the "Img" button in the post menu.

[Evan]

I recently purchased a 1940's army trunk that has a lock labeled "the long lock" and it accidentally closed on me. The front piece of the lock turns freely but I can't pick it no matter what I try... any suggestions?

Sounds like a standard T-46 Footlocker/Trunk key is what you need...

They are available many places, try a locksmith or luggage shop...

~~ Evan

[Raymond]

Look very closely to the front of the lock and you may find a code number. The Long trunk keys were once sold by the number to locksmiths who wanted to stock them. If not the locksmith might have been able to get a copy of the sillouette listing for Long and cut the key as needed from an uncut blank. I do not remember whether they have 3 or 4 levers. They are pickable but not like a pin tumbler lock. The center trunion only holds the key in place while it is turning. You will have to use standard lever picking techniques. The double right angled turning tool will apply turning pressure to the bolt (usually at the back of the lock) while you pick each lever.

[raimundo]

very good advice from Raymond, as usual.

some old locks have d black patina if thats the right word for blackening probably from age and some alloy in the brass (brass often contains lead as well as the zinc and copper to make it machine easily,
this makes seeing a code number difficult.

One trick that will show a code number that is stamped in however lightly and obscured by blackening of the metal is to use a white powder on the surface, anything from baby talcum or even flour baking soda foot powder, it just has to be finely ground and white.
dust this on lightly and wipe the surface, this will leave only traces of the powder in the low spots where the code stamp is, and should make it easy to read.