where to get spring steel plates?

[CrookieMonster]

id like to know where i can get steel plates big enough to make items such as jiggler // wafer keys and a tubular tension wrench such as the one posted in this image

[Legion303]

mcmaster.com, or use hacksaw blades.

-steve

[MacGyver101]

I have used "cabinet scrapers" in the past when needing larger pieces of high-quality stainless spring steel. You can find them at most stores that carry higher-end woodworking tools. (The scrapers are normally used when refinishing wooden furniture.)

They have the advantages of being stainless, fairly well hardened, and very thin: I find them great for making custom picks for locks with tighter keyways. The scrapers are usually 2"x6", and a pair of 0.01"-thick (0.25mm) plates should be about $10. (That should be enough material for 8 or 10 picks if you're sticking to Southord-like dimensions.) I usually get mine from Lee Valley Tools, but I've seen them elsewhere.

Just be forewarned: the harder stainless makes good picks, but it takes a lot more work to file into shape.

[CrookieMonster]

thanks for the info guys.. i really do appreciate it but i dont think either of those are thick enough to make tubular tension wrenches // warded keys // jiggler keys.. there is a better picture of that tubular wrench..

[MacGyver101]

The cabinet scrapers come in a variety of thicknesses (typically everything from 0.25mm to 1mm): the 1mm sheets are certainly stiff enough for tension tools. (They're also incredibly tough: you'll need a grinder or a Dremel and a few cut-off wheels to cut the material... and take your time: you'll be grinding it enough that it'll be easy to overheat things.)