Since I'm here (newbie question [probably] )...

[revenantprime]

I just started the learning process, and I'm having financial issues with practice locks, so I've been trying to practice on some locks where my older brother works. I'm having a really hard time and I did some looking around the web and found out that Schlage locks (which is what they are) are supposed to be really hard to pick. I keep seeing these special Schlage lock picks, but I don't really know what they're for. I mean, are they for ALL Schlage locks or only certain kinds? If they're for certain kinds, how would I find out if the locks at my brother's job are the kind that need the special picks? (Cause I only have a basic set and can't go out and buy these special ones, so if I can't pick what I have to work with I wanna go find some different ones) I'd like to ask if anyone has any low budget training advice, too?

[revenantprime]

Maybe this will help someone answer my question about the Schlages. I think it's one of these two:
http://www.hxp2000.com/Schlage/d-rhodes.htm
http://www.hxp2000.com/Schlage/al-saturn.htm
That's what it looks like. Is there any way to find out which one of those two it is or doesn't it matter? It looks like they're not much different... Would these be too hard to practice for a beginner?

[yungning]

one of the rule of this forum is not to pick any lock not belong to you.

[Chucklz]

The special schlage picks you see are for the schlage wafer lock, which is a very old, and uncommon on businesses.

A Master number 3 lock, costs under five US dollars. You can make that much money doing pretty much anything, including walking around and picking up change on the ground (I netted 40 dollars last year on ground change) .

[revenantprime]

yunging, I know. I asked my brother's boss before I tried and he said it was ok.

Thanks Chucklz.

[Chucklz]

Glad you got permission. Just to let you know, it really is worth investing in a cheap kwikset deadbolt, or a replacement cylinder etc, as it is very hard to learn on a lock thats fully pinned up, and especially difficult on one that is built as well as a Schlage commercial grade lock.

[plot]

for what it's worth, that lock would be tough to pick for alot of us simply becuase of the odd position... most people here (probably all), practice on locks where the chamber is verticle, not horizontal...

[i_want_to_pick]

I just started the learning process

Have you picked anything yet? It would be very hard to learn on a lock like that if you dont know the feel of the pins yet, and even if you did could still be hard due to the reson's stated by Chucklz and Plot.

What tools do you have? If you're only using improvised tools (ie. paperclips, or pins) then it would be much harder.

If you are useing improvised tools, and dont have the money to buy some real picks. It would be worth it to look at the vid on the page at the link below:
viewtopic.php?t=1095
Read the whole first post , it tells you when the vid. is availible for download.

Matt

[revenantprime]

I've actually got a basic southord pick set. 1 wrench, 1 diamond, 1 snake, 1 feeler, 1 ball. I've got this lil Craftsman Professional padlock that I've picked twice so far and I've been practicing with that at home.

[i_want_to_pick]

Using thoes tools, with practice you should be able to learn to pick the locks you posted links for above. You should go to a hardware store , Walmart Target ect... and buy a cheap Deadbolt lock(around $12-$15 Can.), go for the double locking ones(key used on both sides, you get two locks for the price of one.
Then search this forum on how to take the deadbolt apart and remove pins.I'd explain it but i'm just learning to do this the proper way myself.
Matt

[Chucklz]

Heres a link for you about basic dissassembly
http://www.gregmiller.net/locks/disassemble.html

I suggest doing the whole thing in a plastic bag, so incase something does go flying (it probably will) you dont loose it across the room.