Can anyone help me pick a Ruko lock?

[Euan]

Hi guys,
Im fairly new to picking, I got a basic 5 piece set and have picked all the decent padlocks i found lying about the house. Now im trying to pick an old Ruko Flexcore, but having some trouble, if anyone would be willing to give me some tips that would be very kind.

I found a picture of one here: http://www.cliq-technology.co.uk/images/flexcut.gif
I've done a lot of searching but i can't find any info on the longitudinal (orange) pin. From the diagram it seems the idea is simply to obstruct the keyway, or am i missing something? The key cut is actually funnily similar to that picture, especially the rather annoying low-setting last pin (which appears to set first) and the high second to last pin. However the feeling there at the end of the lock is either that of a well-used spring, or some other friction... could this mean that the dark brown bit in that area of the picture is actually a check pin?
Finally once i set the last pin, because of the awkward position and complicated drivers i think i always false set some of the other pins, and find it very tricky to un- set these while keeping the last one set.

Thanks if anyone would like to help me on this! (Or, perhaps just to tell me that i've chosen something too difficult for a relative beginner? )
Cheers,
Euan

[UWSDWF]

it's pickable but the technique for that feature may just be advanced. but if you are a beginner definitely start with an easier lock, just so you don't get uber frustrated and throw it through your window

[globallockytoo]

All that is is a nail in the rear of the plug. Picking is still the same principle and no more difficult than any other of like design. Best are reknpwned for making cores like this, designed as a lockout core. So a key with the corresponding hole slides in and turns as normal.

[illusion]

Well, it's true that they pick open like any other lock.

The downside is that the plug is counter-bored and the pins have nasty serrations on them - Too much turning force and you *will* false set a pin.

It is very possible to pick this lock, yes, but they aren't easy. If you don't mind having to work hard to open this lock, I'd say go for it.

Let us know how you get on.

[Euan]

Thanks for the advice guys. I havent managed to pick it yet but have got pretty close a couple of times. I found that by applying a torque without actually inserting the wrench as usual gives a lot more room to manouever, so hopefully i should manage it soon when i have the time!
Cheers,
Euan

[lockpicker69]

anybody know where i can get a follower for rukos ?

[illusion]

anybody know where i can get a follower for rukos ?

For the rim or mortice cylinders... Use a piece of dowel like you would normally... You could buy a regular plug follower and use that... Or you could read my guide regarding disassembling locks, and get some ideas from there. I haven't heard of these locks coming in Euro profile, but a paperclip like the one mentioned in sj's guide will help. Both of these threads are stickied, check them out.

found that by applying a torque without actually inserting the wrench as usual gives a lot more room to manouever

Do you mean turning from the top of the keyway (In front of the pins) ?

I wouldn't worry too much about lack of space since you can quickly get around this by entering at the right angle - I'd be worried about those nasty security pins.

[lockpicker69]

yes will have to make some bigger ones for the rucko didnt realize they are bigger than standard plugs. i made do with an adappted follower and you will see from this pick i couldnt use the clips.

http://i180.photobucket.com/albums/x295 ... C00656.jpg