Help!

by **themanofmen** » 30 Dec 2005 12:07

I just returned from my trip and my clothes are stuck in my bag. And so accordingly I have lost that key. I tried looking for a spare key and called the amnufacturer and they were unable to help me out. If there is anyone here who can help me open my bag I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

by **illusion** » 30 Dec 2005 12:25

describe the lock please and also give anything like the manufacturer or the model number it may have written on it.

all we know is that it uses a key and that doesn't really reduce the possibilities I'm afraid.

if it is a cheap luggage lock then you can insert a paperclip into into it and simply turn it to unock.... they are a warded system and low security.

by **silent** » 30 Dec 2005 12:28

cut open the bag if you need the stuff soon.

post some pictures of the lock

by **themanofmen** » 30 Dec 2005 12:30

thanks for replying, ill post a pic now. The manufacturer is samsonite but its an old bag.

by **hzatorsk** » 30 Dec 2005 12:54

Dig out your lockpicks and put a little tension on the plug and lift those discs (the movable plates inside the lock) into position.

No picks?

You need to find something that can be used as a pick to raise the discs into and another 'something' that will simultaneously allow you to turn the lock as if you had a key in it.

The something that turns the lock should not get in the way of the something that raises the discs into position.

Since you don't know how far to raise each disc.... you'll spend some time playing with this... jiggling them... bouncing them.. and raking your 'lifting tool' gingerly (not harshly) in and out of the lock. Vary your 'turning force' or tension varying amounts so the pins don't bind up.

The lifting tool is your 'pick' and can be about anything small like a stiff paperclip. The turning tool is your 'tension wrench'. It is usually small flat and L shaped... a small flatblade screwdriver can work.

An amateur should be able to get this open in just a few minutes.

(This looks like a disc wafer lock... if it is a pin tumbler lock... the concept is identical)

Good luck.

by **themanofmen** » 30 Dec 2005 13:04

thanks, i just have a few quick questions. are the discs inside the lock? Is tehre a way to know that you are hitting the disc? Are you on aim?
Thanks again,

by **themanofmen** » 30 Dec 2005 13:38

i am not having much luck, does anybody have anymore suggestions. The diffiuclty I am having is the raking part. I cant seem to do anything there,

by **digital_blue** » 30 Dec 2005 13:52

You could:

a) read the entire MIT Guide to Lockpicking, spend a bunch of time developing your picking skills, and then open up the lock with your new ninja skills.
b) destroy the lock or luggage case in some way that gains you entry.
c) call a locksmith.

So there you have it. What will it be?

db

by **quickpicks** » 30 Dec 2005 14:20

You could try wiggling around something not quite as wide as a letter opener in the keyway whilst turning.

by **hzatorsk** » 30 Dec 2005 17:30

themanofmen wrote:i am not having much luck, does anybody have anymore suggestions. The diffiuclty I am having is the raking part. I cant seem to do anything there,

Yup... I'm with DB on this one. We are going to have to suggest you google up a copy of "MIT Guide to Lockpicking". It is sort of the rite of passage to assist folks here. If you haven't read it, nothing else we suggest will make much sense.

FWIW: Many locksmith shops have a display rack of various small luggage keys and have been known to assist folks with this exact kind of problem for a very reasonable fee that includes you walking out with a key!

z

by **taylorgdl** » 30 Dec 2005 17:57

Small pry bar, or heavy duty screwdriver may prise the case apart, as long as you don't mind buying a new case. Aim half way between the locks and then slide your tool towards the locks. I know it's destructive, but if you're after a quick fix without learning to pick, it's an option.

And thermite is probably not an option in this case (hah pun as well )

(got away with a mention of Therm*** twice in one day, that should reset the datum !)

G.