Making a key using only the keyhole

[skytbest]

So I have a very old guitar case (1978) that uses a key. I have since lost the key and was wondering if there were any ways to make a key using some sort of molding or anything? I don't have very many tools or knowledge of them but I figured if this was at all possible this would be the place to ask. If anyone can point me in the right direction, if there is something I can buy that will do it, or any help at all it would be much appreciated.

Thank you.

[EmCee]

It's likely to be a simple lock (at least, I've never seen a guitar case with a high security lock...then again, my guitars don't include a selection of vintage Fenders and Gibsons). The lock would only provide protection against casual light-fingeredness of spare strings and plectrums anyway - if anyone wanted to nick the guitar they'd likely just take the whole case.

Given that, you could probably find a replacement key fairly easily (I have a large collection of simple keys for briefcase/cabinet etc locks and usually find one to fit a lock).

Otherwise it might be possible to 'impression' the lock, which is a technique for making a key from the lock - there's a video on YouTube of a guy impressioning a cabinet lock.

If you can post a photograph of the lock someone might be able to identify it and give more advice.

Cheers...

[raimundo]

Emcee has it right, these simple locks have very simple keys and if you remember the approximate look of the lost key, you could go to some antique stores and ask about old keys, they usually have a cigar box full of them for all the antiques that have little locks. Similiarly, locksmith shops, junk stores, may have some old keys.

[globallockytoo]

Cheney is a common manufacturer of locks for cases of these type. There are about 30 different standard Cheney keys, one is probably yours.

[unbreakable]

How about a picture of the lock?

[skytbest]

Here is a picture of the lock, sorry the quality is pretty bad. I put my finger next to it to give you an idea of how small the key hole is, its a good amount smaller than a standard key.

[unbreakable]

Sorry bud I can't see the picture.

You hosted it online (say on photobucket) then used the ""?

[unbreakable]

Ughh in the quotes it should show [ img] [ /img] (minus the first space)

[skytbest]

sorry, rookie mistake. Here's the link

http://i779.photobucket.com/albums/yy71/skytbest/Photo_06.jpg

[unbreakable]

Take a look at this thread- http://www.lockpicking101.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=14794

Hopefully it helps, I never managed to get mine open with a key, the lock was FUBAR I suppose.

As previously stated going to a lockie might help as they should have a key that'll work.

[globallockytoo]

sorry, rookie mistake. Here's the link

http://i779.photobucket.com/albums/yy71/skytbest/Photo_06.jpg

As I suspected, it's most likely a Cheney.

[Rickthepick]

im pretty sure thats just a warded lock of the simplest form.

[skytbest]

Ok, if I take this to my local Home Depot or something do you think there is anything they can do?

[globallockytoo]

I doubt it. You need a locksmith or a specialist baggage shop.

[unbreakable]

I bet somebody at Home depot would beat and pry it off of there for you