Stumped [ on picking a BEST lock ]

[Squelchtone]

One of the locks I got from the locksmith was a BEST lock. It has A 7 on the front but I believe it to be a series 1E. Feels like it is 6 pins. But for the life of me I cannot get it open. Don't have a key. The pins are smooth and free to move. While I am trying to pick it I get nice crisp sets on the pins. I can feel the cylinder advance slightly but I get to a point where nothing else seems to work. Does anyone have advice or a direction that I need to go? Thanks, Jon

[Wizer]

Which direction?
Retreat with dignity and go the hardway and fight all the locks on the swampy road.
Then one day when it expects you the least, surprice it from the side, and pick it quick!

Those have 2 shearlines and tight tolerances, really hard to pick.
Search for Best SFIC cylinder.

[KPick]

Maybe you're oversetting a pin somewhere in the lock.

[GWiens2001]

You can also get spooled driver pins for them.

Gordon

[Squelchtone]

How experienced of a picker area you? If you just started and maybe picked a Master padlock or a Kwikset deadbolt, that wont mean that every lock will come easy. BEST are very well made and with the addition of another pick stack or two can be a real challange.

If you are already an experienced picker, it could just be that lock. If SPP isnt working try raking, if that doesn't work try lighter tension. If that doesnt work, try rum and coke and then try to pick that lock again. It's good to take breaks when you find a lock frustrating you.

Good luck,
Squelchtone

[docjon]

Not a beginner. Been at it for about 8 months.
Using clockwise rotation on a top wrench. I've tried every direction and the only one that seems to be getting me any where is top clockwise. It is very possible that I am over picking one or more. Try to be very careful of that but u guys know how easy it is to do. I have been wondering if there is a security pin in there and I am only into the false set. Pin 1 and 6 seem sloppy. The others set nice. As I said before I will go back to basics and see if I can correct whatever it is that is slipping me up. Thanks guys. Jon

[Raymond]

We must make the assumption that you have researched the Best type cores with two shear lines so you know how the core is constructed. You mentioned having definite 'sets' on the pins. Unfortunately each set could have been for either shear line. There is no way to know for sure until the lock opens. Since the core removal lug only rotates to the right (CW) try picking to the left. If the plug turns and is picked but stll does not open the padlock, spin it to the right with a plug spinner.

Yes, Best locks do occasionally have spool security pins. They have been used on bottom pins as well as the control and top pins. With two shear lines, the spool can be sticking on either.

With medium turning pressure, try moving one pin to the set. If the depth appears to be a deep key cut, gently lighten the pressure and move the same pin to a higher set. You might get lucky and ferret out the correct opening sets.

[docjon]

Oh wow! Thanks for that info. I believe that should help me get in the right direction. Jon