Asking for input on making a small practice lock holder

[sleazytouch]

I have a couple of deadbolts and doorknob locks that I want to be able to interchange in a moveable holder that can rest on a desk. I've seen some practice kits on the internet, but these look more complicated than a small section of a door where the lock would be mounted. I'm thinking of cutting a six inch square around where the lock would be mounted in a door, then adding a wooden base that could be clamped down on the edge of a desk using a C-Clamp. When finished it would look like an upside down T from the side, with the base that would be held by the clamp being the top of the T. Maybe some of you have created similar practice mounts for locks and I'd be very interested in what you've learned. Thanks in advance for your advice.

[sleazytouch]

After reading through some previous posts I found some good advice that different locks are mounted in different size holes (depending on the manufacturer). I'm thinking of mounting 2-4 locks on a single stand (with varying size holes to accomidate different locks) with the same base being clamped down with the C-clamp. To mount the locks side by side I'll need to cut out spaces between each lock.

[Chucklz]

Not much to really discuss here, Just grab a section or two of some cheap hardboard and mount the locks up on it, then make some kind of stand. Rim Cylinders will be the easiest to mount probably.

[Eyes_Only]

Ive tried to make a lock mount before but it came out looking like crap and it was way too much work for me. I just use a bench vise now, so much easier and you can "interchange" virtually any size lock on it whenever you wish.

[CitySpider]

Exactly. On the few occasions I've wanted them to hold still, rather than just holding them in my hand, I've done fine with a regular old vice or a clamp.

[technik]

When finished it would look like an upside down T from the side, with the base that would be held by the clamp being the top of the T. Maybe some of you have created similar practice mounts for locks and I'd be very interested in what you've learned. Thanks in advance for your advice.

I have made a similar lock station. If you keep a constant check up on this thread:

http://www.lockpicking101.com/viewtopic.php?t=1457&highlight=

I am still searching for a camera, but when I get 1, i'll post them on my site. I have 4 locks on my station, and 4 padlock holders. Trust me, i am working on taking photos.

[UnLock]

Here's my practice board I made recently. I got the idea from Home Depot as they use a similar method for displaying their locks. All I used was a 2x6 and I ripped it down so the width of it was 4 3/4". This isn't necessary but it keeps the locks centered on the board. Of course if you're not installing the actual deadbolt, you'll be able to center it on any width board. To drill the wholes, I picked up a drill template kit from Home Depot which cost $14.99 Cdn. The kit contained two whole saw bits (one for the deadbolt, the other for the lock) and a reusable plastic template. I then used 3 coats of black melamine paint to make it durable and pretty looking.

[Chucklz]

That is truly nice work. Also, nice work area, im very jealous of your dedicated space.

[plot]

holy s--- dude, nice job.

you got the added bonus of what a locksmith might come across from drilling holes and actually installing the lock. props.

[n00by]

Yes very nice work! Excellent job! Can you pick all those locks you got? Also what kind of lock is that brass one with the long hasp?

[Mad Mick]

Great work Unlock, nice attention to detail.

[UnLock]

Thank you all for the compliments. I really enjoy working on the board since it mimics a real door lock installation and makes picking easier. Better than holding them in my hand.

I've been able to open all the pictured locks except for the shinny chrome one that has Brinks stamped on the front. The keyway is very small and tight making it difficult to get my picks in there. I new I should've also ordered the slim line pick set. I also have an Abus 65/45 padlock (not pictured) I haven't opened. I still need to try the reverse picking tip Chucklz told me about.

n00by...The brass padlock with the long hasp is made by GUARD. Nothing special at all. I was able to pick that in 30 seconds the very first time. The pins practically say "pick me, pick me!".

The deadbolts from top to bottom are:

1. TITAN (6 pin)
2. Yale (5 pin with spools at 2 and 4)
3. Kwikset (5 pin)

[UnLock]

I might use technik's idea and add some eye screws on the right edge of the stand and put some padlocks there. Not sure how he did it but this would work well. This will free up some desk space as well.

[Mad Mick]

Not to mention, some actual installation related picking.

[marso]

I would just like to say that is a nice lock holder. Thanks for sharing the picture with us.

On your comment relating to how this mimics a real door lock installation, yes it is more like a real door. Just missing the whole down on the knees with limited room because the lock is against the wall But sure beats how I am doing it atm.

Thanks again.