Ace Hardware Padlock

[kstinson]

So I am not new to novice lock picking. It has been a hobby of mine since I was a teenager.

However I have a question about this particular padlock that I picked up at Ace Hardware. I have done quite a few "high security" padlocks like Brinks and Master Lock models. This one gives me a heck of a time and on average takes me somewhere between 5-10 mins of raking to get to a false set. Once I get it to the false set I can loosen up the tension and use a hook to get the spool pin to the shear line opening the lock.

I can't seem to find any information on it, and infact I can't even find it on Ace Hardware's website. The package is long since went out in the trash and I can't find any model numbers on the lock itself. I am merely assuming this, but it seems there is one spool pin. There seems to be one normal pin, at least I am almost positive it is. The rest seem to be serrated pins. Until I have raked these pins countless times there is no exaggerated turn to the plug. Its really a pain to get them all set at one time without disturbing the others. I am really surprised this lock is such a pain, being it was $9 at the local Ace Hardware. Any one have any information on this lock?

[freakparade3]

It's just a basic 4 pin padlock. No security pins. The reason these are a pain to pick is because they are cheaply made. The tolerances are so huge it's tough to get everything just right to pick it.

[jerrasis]

I just bought that same lock and picked it with a bobby pin and a screw driver.

[kstinson]

It may very well be poor construction. It seems to be of better quality than a Master Lock though. This model has 5-pins, and I am almost sure one of them is a spool as I get a 15* false set of the plug. Lightening tension and lifting the pin with a hook seems to set it and get the thing open.

[jerrasis]

I should add that it was really really hard to pick, didn't want to sound like an arse. I feel like I just get pretty lucky with it sometimes.

[kstinson]

Thats my biggest frustration with this lock is it seems to be a game of luck. I dislike having to rake a lock, as its somewhat sloppy with no rhyme or reason to me. Though it often takes multiple sets I typically can get most locks with SPP.