Picking an H.W. Rountree Steamer Trunk - Lock Yale and Towne

[Nelly2Be]

Hello all!

I need some guidance when comes to an antique trunk I have. My mother-in-law lost the key and I would really love to open it up! All of the information and photos are here: http://danielleuniverse.wordpress.com/t ... ntree-bro/

I'm not sure if I should order a lock picking kit and figure it out, search for a key, or just take it to a locksmith.

Based on your experience, what do you think?

Thanks!

[Squelchtone]

Best bet is to bring to local locksmith, they will pick it for you and can make a key. Will probably cost $25-$50 after labor to pick and making a key.

Do not let them drill it, and make sure you ask they pick it and do not drill the lock. The locksmith will probably want to spray some WD-40 in to the keyhole in order to get the pins working smoother while picking it, but they may not need to. Ask them to be careful with spraying the WD-40 as this is an antique and you don't want it stained.

good luck, cool trunk!
Squelchtone

[cledry]

Hello all!

I need some guidance when comes to an antique trunk I have. My mother-in-law lost the key and I would really love to open it up! All of the information and photos are here: http://danielleuniverse.wordpress.com/t ... ntree-bro/

I'm not sure if I should order a lock picking kit and figure it out, search for a key, or just take it to a locksmith.

Based on your experience, what do you think?

Thanks!

A locksmith should be able to impression it, but please don't oil the lock first. It is a common Yale keyway and still available.