snap guns

[Project]

i read in the forum about electric guns damaging locks, but how bout snap guns? can they damage a lock?

[Chucklz]

Yes, but it depends on how you use it and the particular lock. A snap gun can "pop" the retainer off a Kwikset, resulting in an open lock, but pins and springs everywhere inside of the lock. I wouldnt worry too too much in a well made lock about damage, but a cheapo lock should be easy enough to pick by hand anyway.

[Romstar]

Well, the quick answer is no.

The long answer is a little more complex.

Basically, a snap gun isn't going to cause anywhere near the amount of damage that an electric pick could cause. Mostly because you simply can't snap it that fast or that hard.

Under high magnification, you will still see indications that a manual opening was performed. The difference is an electric gun will shave the lock, and could even dent the pins. The evidence is a simple as brass filings and dust.

There are some reports that manual guns, like the Majestic Lock-Aid have dented the pins in lower quality locks, however, I've never personally seen one.

So, you a snap pick could cause damage, but it is highly unlikely.

Happy picking,
Romstar

[Chucklz]

When using a snap gun, or any pick gun, keep the tension on the gun as light as possible. This will avoid nasty retainer incidencts.

[Romstar]

The devil with the retainer in the rear. I had a lock that blew up. Come to find out, the top of the lock had a pressed on spring plate.

It seems this particular company loaded the locks from the top, but never resealed the shell. Instead they put a press on brass plate over the top.

In goes the gun, in goes the wrench, I pull my finger a few times, and the lock sort of opens. It makes some interesting sounds as well.

Can't get the lock to close. So, I look in the lock. It kinda looks okay. I put in a feeler pick, and instantly discover that there is something horridly wrong. There is no pressure on the pins.

I tear out the lock, and the moment I get it away from the door. Springs come out. Also the top plate is laying beside the lock shell.

The moral of this story is that sometimes, no matter what you do; disaster is just waiting for you to come in.

[Chucklz]

Romstar, that clip that keeps the pins in the plug, thats what i was referring to.

[Romstar]

Chucklz, I thought you were refering to the plate in the rear of the lock. I've seen a lot of cheapo locks come apart not at the top, but at the rear. Once the rear retainer plate comes off, you can have a whole new mess to deal with.

[archiebald]

Most locks no but on the cheap low quality ones yes.All for now past my bed time.