Outline And Review: Foley-Belsaw Locksmithing Course

[jimb]

The following is a complete outline of the Foley-Belsaw Locksmithing Course. It’s intended to help those that are considering a locksmith course. I'm asking that you do not use this thread for help on a certain lesson. If you need help on a lesson please start a new thread after you do a search to be sure it hasn’t already been discussed.

On the other hand if you have taken this course then please feel free to post you opinion of the course or add to what’s here to help others make a decision. If some of the elders here see something that’s obsolete or a waste of time then please speak up.

I would also like to see anyone that has taken any locksmithing courses to start an outline and review in a new thread on the course that you completed.

Lesson 1 – The Key Blank Catalog
Objective: To acquaint you with the key blank catalog and the basic kinds of keys.
Supplies: Key blank catalog and 2 work cards.
Returned work: Both work cards.

Lesson 2 – Key Identification
Objective: To learn the names of the parts for different keys and how to match keys.
Supplies: 6 Cylinder key blanks, 6 flat key blanks and 6 key rings.
Returned work: All key blanks matched on key rings.

Lesson 3 – How To Duplicate Flat Keys
Objective: To Learn the hand filing method of duplicating flat steel keys.
Supplies: Work card.
Returned work: Work card.

Lesson 4 – How To Duplicate Cylinder & Bit Keys
Objective: To learn the hand filing method of duplicating cylinder and bit keys.
Supplies: Work card.
Returned work: Work card.

Lesson 5 – Automobile Lock Servicing
Objective: To Learn the basic servicing procedures necessary on auto locks.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 6 – Warded Lock Construction
Objection: To learn the names of the basic parts and the function they perform in warded locks.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 7 – Making Keys By Impression For Warded Locks
Objective: To learn how to make a key for warded locks without taking them apart and without duplicating from another key
Supplies: 4 key blanks, 1 lock, and a 4” file.
Returned work: 1 lock and 1 key

Lesson 8 – Warded Bit Key Construction
Objective: To learn the names of the parts and the function they perform in the bit key lock.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 9- Re-settable Padlock Construction
Objective: To learn the construction of the re-settable model padlock and how to find a lost combination.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 10 – Lever Tumbler Lock Construction, Picking and key impressioning
Objective: To learn the basic construction of the lever tumbler lock, how to pick it and making keys by impression.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 11 – Disc Tumbler Lock Construction And Picking
Objective: To learn the construction of the disc tumbler locks, how they work and how to pick them.
Supplies: 1 lock, 2 lock picks and 1 tension wrench.
Returned work: 1 open lock

Lesson 12 – Combination Locks
Objective: To learn the construction of the combination padlocks and how to open them when the combination is not known.
Supplies: 1 combination padlock
Returned work: Combination lock

Lesson 13 – Side Bar Wafer Lock Construction
Objective: To learn the construction of the side bar wafer lock and how it works.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 14- Car Opening And Lock Outs
Objective: To learn car-opening techniques, how to open cars without keys through the use of specialized tools.
Supplies: Detailed drawings of car opening procedures.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 15 – Automotive Lock And Cylinder Removal
Objective: To learn how automotive locks are contained in the car, how to remove, disassemble and reassemble them.
Supplies: Detailed drawings for typical installation.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 16 – Pin Tumbler Lock Construction And Key Fitting
Objective: To learn the construction of the pin tumbler lock and how to fit an original key to them.
Supplies: 1 pin tumbler lock, 2 key blanks, extra pins and springs, 1 following tool, 1 pin tray, shim stock and a file.
Returned work: 1 lock and 1 key.
There is an additional Supplement to this lesson, furnished by Schlage lock on how to pin Schlage locks alike.

Lesson 17 – Picking Pin Tumbler Locks
Objective: To learn the different methods of picking open pin tumbler locks and the purpose of special pick resistant pins.
Supplies: 1 pin tumbler lock, extra pins and springs.
Returned work: 1 pin tumbler lock.

Lesson 18 – Chicago Ace Lock
Objective: To learn the construction of the Chicago Ace Lock, how to pick them and changing the combination.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 19 – Key-In-Knob Data
Objective: To become familiar with the key-in-knob locks. How to select the proper lock for your customer, exploded views to aid in servicing and installing them.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 20 – The Pin Tumbler Master Key System
Objective: To Learn the purpose of the master key system and how to set up a system on paper before working on the locks.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: Exam.

Lesson 21 – Master Keying Pin Tumbler Locks
Objective: To master key a pin tumbler lock by following the master key system learned in lesson 20.
Supplies: 1 master key, 1 change key, 1 plug holder, 1 pin tumbler cylinder, 1 set of bottom pins, 1 set of top pins, 1 set of master pins and spare pins and springs.
Returned work: 1 pin tumbler cylinder with a change key and master key to fit.

Lesson 22 – Impression System For Pin Tumbler Locks
Objective: To learn how to make original keys for pin tumbler locks without taking them apart, and how to file the key blank using the impression marks as a guide.
Supplies: 1 pin tumbler lock and 5 key blanks.
Returned work: 1 pin tumbler lock and 1 key to fit.

Lesson 23 – Schlage wafer lock construction and key fitting
Objective: To learn the mechanical function and operation of the Schlage Wafer Lock Plug and fitting keys to them.
Supplies: None
Returned work: Exam

Lesson 24 – Servicing And Re-keying The Best Removable Core Lock
Objective: To learn the construction and inter-workings of the Best Removable Core Lock.
Supplies: None
Returned work: Exam.

You will receive the FB 200 Key Machine when you receive lessons 25 - 30

Lesson 25 – Emhart Interlocking Pin Tumbler Cylinder
Objective: To Learn the design and construction of the Emhart Interlocking Pin Tumbler Lock.
Supplies: None.
Returned work: None

Lesson 26 – Forced Entry Of Buildings
Objective: To learn the methods used by locksmiths to enter buildings when it’s not practical or possible to use conventional methods.
Supplies: None
Returned work: Exam

Lesson 27 – Fitting Keys By The Reading Method For Disc Tumbler Locks
Objective: To learn how to make keys for disc tumbler locks by reading the height of the disc, and making s key to fit the lock.
Supplies: 1 disc tumbler lock, 4 key blanks, 1 reading tool and a spacer key.
Returned work: 1 disc tumbler lock and key to fit

Lesson 28 – Double Bitted Cam Locks
Objective: To learn the construction of double bitted locks, how they operate and how to duplicate the original key.
Supplies: 1 double bitted lock, 2 key blanks, 1 cut key to fit.
Returned work: 1 lock, 1 key to fit, plus duplicate key to fit.

Lesson 29 – Cutting Automotive Keys By Code
Objective: To learn how to cut automotive keys from code numbers supplied or found on locks and selecting the proper key blank for automotive locks.
Supplies: Automotive key chart, automotive code list, spacer key and 2 key blanks
Returned work: Key cut from code.

Lesson 30 – How To Operate A Locksmith Business
Objective: To help you get started in a part time or full time locksmith business.
Supplies: General examination papers.
Returned work: Exam.

There is also a lesson 30 Supplement that contains additional information on operating a locksmith business.

After the first 30 lessons are completed successfully you will be sent a diploma and a wallet size card that says you are a certified locksmith.

Advanced Professional Locksmithing (The advanced lessons are included with the enrollment of the course)

Security & Specialty Locks
Lesson 1 – The Hurd No 716 Padlock
Lesson 2 – Junkunc-American “Ball-Locking” Padlocks
Lesson 3 – Master 1525 Key Controlled Combination Padlock

Safes And Safe Deposit Locks
Lesson 1 – Safe and vault locks
Lesson 2 – Basic Operating Principles
Lesson 3 – Hole type Combination Change
Lesson 4 – Key Change Combination
Lesson 5 – Combination Lock Theory
Lesson 6 – Safe Deposit Locks
Lesson 7 – Methods Of Opening Safe Deposit Boxes
Lesson 8 – Making The First Key And Door Repair

You will have a 40 question exam on the advanced lessons and upon successful completion you will receive another diploma for advanced locksmithing.

The next delivery you get from FB will be the final delivery. It will contain 24 lessons on burglar, fire alarms and security systems. I’m not going to list all 24 lessons since you are not tested on these. This is also when you will receive the pick gun; it’s the Ilco 827-00-8X. They also send some generic invoices; security release forms and business cards you hand write your name and number on. There’s also a locksmith sign (basically a big label) and some ad slicks.

Well, that’s about it. I'll follow up with a my review a little later.

[jimb]

Well I guess you figured out by now that I graduated. As a friend of mine would say, I’m edge-a-ma-cated.

Overall I thought this was a good course and I learned a tremendous amount on locksmithing. Keep in mind that I had no knowledge of the profession except for a couple of months picking practice when I signed up, but I felt it was well worth the money. However, I want this to be an honest review for anyone considering taking the course, not that I can really say anything bad but I did have some concerns.

I not going to review every lesson, I'll just touch on a few things and I hope others will add their comments. There are a couple of things here that I have posted in other threads but I felt they were important so I’ve added them here also.

When you first start these lessons you might wonder if you made a mistake, as some of the lessons are way too simple. For example Lesson 2 on Key Identification was so simple that any child over the age of 4 could have matched up these keys. But hang in there they get harder as you go.

Some on here have stated that FB requires you to buy a lot of materials to complete the lessons this is not true. It is true that they send a lot of fliers trying to sell you items that they sell, but everything you need to complete the lessons is furnished, assuming you have a vise.

One of the lessons I had concern with was to impression a key for a pin tumbler lock. It may have been me but I had to wonder how many times that lock had been impressioned by students and if it was causing me problems in getting the marks I needed. I had no trouble getting the blank to mark, but once I started filing I could not get any marks. I used a magnifying glass, good light and looked at every angle. I even read everything on the web I could find. I almost broke a key but caught it before it snapped. Luckily, they do tell you that you can pull the plug and make a key if your having problems and this is what I ended up doing.

On another lesson, picking a pin tumbler lock they replace the plug retainer clip with a cotter clip for easier access. This clip held the plug so tight that you could not back off the tension unless you pulled the tension wrench out and put it in the other side of the lock and turned it in the opposite direction. I ended up pulling the cotter clip off and then had no problem picking the lock.

They discuss many bypass methods and even show you how to make a bypass tool out of a couple of hacksaw blades.

The lessons are well written and easy to understand. If you’re not a big reader you will like it that there’s not a lot of unnecessary reading.

As I said, I learned a tremendous amount from this course but don't feel I got enough out of it to start a locksmith business, but I would feel comfortable going to work for one. As I read every thing I can find on the web I know there’s a ton of stuff I don’t know. If I was to go to the junk yard with lockout tools and practice some I would feel comfortable starting a lockout service.

If you just want to learn to pick locks don’t waste your money on this course.

[Dread Pirate Roberts]

I know this is kind of old, but I had some questions...


First off, how long did this course take? I'm asking because I'm seventeen and in talking with one of the music instructors at my school, she told me she had done locksmithing work for a while. She mentioned she completed a course in 2 months or so, and started from there. SHe said she made pretty good money, and she's planning to work with me some more on the subject, but I was just wondering how long it took you guys to pass the course.

Thanks

[jimb]

I think a lot of it's going to be how you pay. I was on the payment plan but I was sending in an average of 2 monthly payments per week to make sure my lessons kept coming. They only send 5 lessons at a time. I doubt they will let you get too far with only a couple of payments. In other words I doubt they will send you the key machine if you have paid only $100.

I completed the first 25 lessons in a couple of months and that was taking my time. I took another couple of weeks to do the advanced lessons.

You could easily do a lesson a day and even more if you wanted, but it's best to go slow and make sure you understand what you are learning.

[Locksmoker]

Review looks good. Pretty much everything I have experienced from the course. I feel it was worth the money. I am currently waiting to send in my last 10 lessons as I have completed them all but the one on impressioning the pin tumbler lock. Having trouble seeing marks after filing. Key machine was fun to learn to use. Can't wait to get the pick gun and play with it. All in all learned a ton. You could probably learn all that off this site though, but no key machine, pick gun, and certs. Some lessons did not include a lock with it so all you got was black and white pictures which made learning a little difficult such as the lesson on auto locks. FB forgot to include some blanks in one of my lessons so I called them and they resent the whole lock and blanks so I got a practice lock out of the deal as well. Some nice things they send and you get to keep include, pining tray, extra pins and springs, tweezers, follower, plug holder, picks, reading tool, 2 spacer keys, key blank catalog, key machine, 2 files and some extra key blanks. Key machine is priced in the FB wholesale catalog for $279 and the pickgun at $69. Tuition was $649 on the pay-as-you-learn plan. Hope this helps someone somehow.

[lt6206]

What is the "Special Surprise" that they send you after completing the first 5 lessons?

[jimb]

What is the "Special Surprise" that they send you after completing the first 5 lessons?

Don't get excited on this. It's a cheesy achievement award for finishing the first set of lessons.

[srm]

great summary!

You're right about the simplicity of the first lessons and the cheesey nature of the 'special award. I'm currently working on lesson 18. You are 'spot on' on each lesson so far.

Thanx

[Raccoon]

If you were to see changes made to this course, what would they be?

How do you feel about the cost of the course verse the value of material sent to you and learned?

From reading this review alone, I feel that each lesson should be supplied with the lock being learned. Since all locks are returned anyway, there is no reason why each-and-every lesson shouldn't come with physical working material. Locksmithing is VERY hands-on, and it's my opinion that having lock-in-hand is the ONLY way to learn. However, it would also be nice if they gave you some practice locks to keep.

Do you agree or disagree, or have other suggestions to make the course even better? I think this review might be useful to Foley-Belsaw if someone were to contact them and pass it on.

Eric

[lt6206]

What is the "Special Surprise" that they send you after completing the first 5 lessons?

Don't get excited on this. It's a cheesy achievement award for finishing the first set of lessons.

And I actually thought they might be giving me tools or something.. lol

[jimb]

From reading this review alone, I feel that each lesson should be supplied with the lock being learned. Since all locks are returned anyway, there is no reason why each-and-every lesson shouldn't come with physical working material. Locksmithing is VERY hands-on, and it's my opinion that having lock-in-hand is the ONLY way to learn.
Eric

I have expressed my opinion on the value of the course in my review; maybe others can do the same.

I agree 100% that there should be more hands on lessons. In fact I think this would be the best improvement in the course.

Some of the lessons I would remove or replace with some of the newer technology. For instance in one lesson it explains how to drill a combination pad lock to get the combination and how to patch the hole. I can't see a locksmith doing this. Wouldn't it be less expensive to just replace the lock?

[jimb]

I forgot to say I would also remove that cheesy achievement award. Like lt6206 I was expecting something that I could use. The award is just a big disappointment

[srm]

If you were to see changes made to this course, what would they be?

How do you feel about the cost of the course verse the value of material sent to you and learned?

From reading this review alone, I feel that each lesson should be supplied with the lock being learned. Since all locks are returned anyway, there is no reason why each-and-every lesson shouldn't come with physical working material. Locksmithing is VERY hands-on, and it's my opinion that having lock-in-hand is the ONLY way to learn. However, it would also be nice if they gave you some practice locks to keep.

Do you agree or disagree, or have other suggestions to make the course even better? I think this review might be useful to Foley-Belsaw if someone were to contact them and pass it on.

Eric

Lesson 1 – The Key Blank Catalog
Too simple. maybe more keys to practice with

Lesson 2 – Key Identification
Too simple again. more keys to practice with


Lesson 3 – How To Duplicate Flat Keys
needs hands on practice

Lesson 4 – How To Duplicate Cylinder & Bit Keys
again, needs hands on practice

Lesson 5 – Automobile Lock Servicing
Needs to be updated. the latest date in the unit is 1979

Lesson 6 – Warded Lock Construction
OK

Lesson 7 – Making Keys By Impression For Warded Locks
I liked this one. I would'a like more practice

Lesson 8 – Warded Bit Key Construction
OK

Lesson 9- Re-settable Padlock Construction
I enjoyed this one...but as before a practive lock would have been nice

Lesson 10 – Lever Tumbler Lock Construction, Picking and key impressioning
OK, important for the few times I might deal with such a lock.

Lesson 11 – Disc Tumbler Lock Construction And Picking
I liked this one a lot.

Lesson 12 – Combination Locks
This one too...maybe not practical but fun

Lesson 13 – Side Bar Wafer Lock Construction
I think that this one needs a lock or locks to practice on.

Lesson 14- Car Opening And Lock Outs
Hands on practice! I'm not sure how it would be possible...but I'd like it.

Lesson 15 – Automotive Lock And Cylinder Removal
reading isn't good enough. Find a way to give hands on practice


Lesson 16 – Pin Tumbler Lock Construction And Key Fitting
Very good. I enjoyed it a lot

Lesson 17 – Picking Pin Tumbler Locks
Another good one...that I've enjoyed. An example or two of security pins to practice with would be good

Lesson 18 – Chicago Ace Lock
I would want a lock to take apart and work on.

This is as far as I've gotten.

[lightfoot]

Well, I've finished my first five lessons and i'm kinda dissapointed to learn that the "award" isn't something useful like a plug follower. But, then again as easy as those first five lessons were I guess we shouldn't expect too much. I've ordered a vise and I bought a cheap deadbolt (guard). I can't wait to start my adventure into the art of picking. As fast as the lessons seem to go it looks like I'll have plenty of time to practice between shipments as i am on the "pay as u go program". I'm sure I'll be coming to u guys for advice as the lessons (and my confusion) progress

[Bud Wiser]

I've been looking at the Foley-Belsaw course too. I have a few questions hope some body doesn't mind anwsering.

1. Is the key machine of good quality, does it come with a decent manual, any comments about the key machine.

2. What happens if you fail a lesson? Do you just keep going, repeat it? So in othre words how does this course fAIL? If you fail the final exam can you repeat the course or do you have to pay all over again for a new course?

3. How much weight does the Foley-Belsaw certificate carry? Is it recognized as legit, respected?

4. And finally, how long does it take to get your next lesson after you send in your completed lesson?

Thanks in advance! Great thread!