Rake out of a key?

[mcm757207]

I was reading somewhere about a rake cut out of a key... but the entire text wasn't there (i tink it might have been the demo of that $200 lockpicking book thing), so I didn't get the full scoop. Could one just use a key to rake back and forth while applying tension w/ the key? ie. raking back adn forth and turning key at same time? That would be quite a cool pick no1 would notice that your carrying a pick on your key key ring... hehe- no risk of ppl looking at you strange

[Grudge]

Hmm, off hand that does sound possible. You would just get a keyblank and file it down into the rake of your choice. However, I see a few potential problems:

1) A keyblank typically only fits into one kind of lock. So if you did a Kwikset KW1, it would only work in that kind of lock. (of course, Kwiksets are pretty popular so that might still be useful).

2) You would have to be really careful you didn't pull the key all the way out or you would lose the tension on the cylinder and the pins would drop back into place.

3) When raking part of the motion is up and down, as well as, in and out. You wouldn't be able to do this with a filed down key since it curves around wards reaches to the bottom of the keyway.

[macaba]

The procedure requires that a specially cut blank be inserted and “rapped” in order that shock waves be created so that tumblers can be bounced above shear line. The technique is essentially identical in theory with the use of a pick gun.

Rapping is based upon Newton’s Third law of motion: for each action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Thus, the application of energy that causes the pins to momentarily bounce can be used to open a lock.

In practice, a rubber or wooden mallet, plastic screwdriver handle, hardwood handle, or rubber workbench top can be used to initiate shock to the pins. A special key, with all cuts to the deepest point (hence the name 999), must be inserted so that the ramps (not valleys or flats) are pressed against each of the lower pins.

After the key has been inserted to the proper position, several sharp raps are applied to the top of the key. If a tabletop is used, then downward contact is utilized. At the same time, forward pressure and a slight rotation is exerted on the key. When the proper force is applied to the key, combined with the correct shock, each tumbler will be caused to bounce above shear line; the plug will then be free to move.

The requirements to rap a lock are as follows:

· The lock must be clean;
· The pins must move easily in their chambers;
· The plug-retaining screws must be removed prior to rapping;
· The lock should be held between the thumb and index finger;
· Slight pressure should be applied to the key;
· The lock should be struck from above;
· Once all pins are set, care must be taken not to slide the plug forward so that pins relock at the next tumbler position;
· Turn the plug slightly after all pins are set, prior to opening.

I bet its not as simple as you thought!
Glad to help always.

[davehill]

This may be a very silly question but ill ask it anyway .Would a keycutter / locksmith cut me a 999 rapping key . Thanks

[Varjeal]

Not a silly question, but my answer is still no.

[davehill]

Is it possible to file a blank and would a locksmith sell me one? I have some ruko locks i would love to be able to open but just havnt got the single pinning skill yet . Thanks

[Varjeal]

In a word, yes.

[mcm757207]

Thanks all I have a blank laying around here somewhere... i bought a few back when I was attempting to re-key my own lock - i just re ordered the pins, but it took me forever to file on key down to the right size (by hand). it worked, but i didn't want to bother making another key so i put it back.

[mcm757207]

just out of curiosity, why wouldn't a locksmith/keycutter cut a 999 key? because the only way to do it is by hand or because the only use for it is as a rake?

[Varjeal]

Any locksmith with a code machine of any type could cut you a "999" key in less than 30 seconds. The problem is that a "999" key is only useful as a "bump" key, and no morally or ethically responsible locksmith is going to hand over a "pick key" which could also possibly be viewed as "aiding and abetting" if you were to use said tool (and be caught) for something illegal. (Not saying you would, but just giving an example.)

The potential liability is simply far too great.

[mcm757207]

I could understand that point of view. Does this key have to be cut with those perfect "V" shapes or can it be cut like a normal rake pick?

[Varjeal]

It doesn't have to be perfect "V" cuts. They just need to be wide enough for the pins to sit in properly and rounded enough that the key can be inserted and withdrawn easily.

Good luck.

[mcm757207]

thanks- I'm about to try it... I'll keep ya posted but i hope i don't screw it up

[mcm757207]

OMG! I made a "999" and I can open my front door dead bolt in like 10 seconds! (yes, it's a kwikset but still...) wow this sure is an entertaining hobby...I better not do that too mucht hough or i'll ware down the pins

[milan]

this ¨¨999¨¨ key, can work for cruciform key and cruciform cylinder?