Building project; Question on locks.

[quickstand25]

Hey guys I'm new to the forum here and I'm looking for some information on regular deadbolt locks.
I just ordered myself the MPXS-14 pick set and have been reading up on the aspects of lock picking and how locks work. After all of this, I found all I am missing are the locks to practice on. While browsing around the internet, I found a nice step-by-step guide to building a practice deadlock stand. (http://www.itstactical.com/skillcom/lock-picking/how-to-make-an-inexpensive-diy-lock-pick-practice-set/)

The next step I'm struggling with is what make of deadbolts would be the best for a newbie to practice on. I'm looking for a deadbolt that is cheaper, will last the abuse of a newbie and one that I can easily remove the pins and springs. I don't want a deadbolt that is cheaply made and is too easy to pick.

Any suggestions or input would be most appreciated.

[GWiens2001]

Kwikset deadbolts are fairly easy. That is probably why they are included with those at-home locksmithing learning programs. Pretty easy to repin. You can even get a rekey kit including keys, pins, tools and instructions for under $15 at Home Depot, if they are around in your area. If not, go online for the rekey kits.

I also had luck going to Home Depot, Lowes, or even a local Hardware store and mooching a few pins and springs off them. I always offered to pay for them, but they usually just gave them to me. Even got some mushroom pins from them for free!

You can also google "Ultimate Challenge Practice Lock" for a great learning lock. Designed to be easy to remove springs and pins using an allen screw at the top of each stack. They include the allen wrench, 750 additional driver pins, key pins, master wafers, mushroom pins and extra allen screws. Just be extra careful not to over-tighten the allen screw - barely snug will be fine.

If you go to buy a deadbolt, keep in mind that, for a beginner, a Schlage can be pretty tough. Also, do not buy a deadbolt that is listed as being a secure key, smart key, or Medico.

Good luck, and happy pickin!

[Raymond]

If all you want are locks to practice on, many of us can sell you key in knob (KIK) take out lock cylinders. These can still be mounted for door realism and will provide the same practice. They will be considerably cheaper than buying a complete new deadbolt unless you need to upgrade what is at your house.

[grundrakkon]

Check with a local locksmith shop, too. Many are packrats that refuse to throw an lock old away, my old boss had thousands in our warehouse. You will have a better chance at getting a variety of brands, too, for cheap. However, I would not necessarily tell them what your intentions are. Locksport is a touchy subject with a lot of them. Tell them you're doing a research paper and would like some visual aids if they press. Hope that helps.