easy to pick padlocks? also, ethics question

[jehan60188]

I'm thinking about getting padlocks from the hardware store to practice on.
The ethical dilemma is whether it's ok to return them once i get them down. thoughts?

also, what order should i go in? (like, what's an easy-to-pick brand/model)?

thanks!

[easy-e]

I'm thinking about getting padlocks from the hardware store to practice on.

also, what order should i go in? (like, what's an easy-to-pick brand/model)?

thanks!

I started out with masters and some no-name brand locks I found in a box of my late grandpa's tools. I also had some Brinks padlocks which have security pins. Once you play with cheap padlocks for a few weeks you'll get bored and want something more challenging. Don't spend all of your money buying locks to start with. You could also go to your local locksmith and ask them if they have any used locks with or without keys.

The ethical dilemma is whether it's ok to return them once i get them down. thoughts?

That is a horrible idea. Just keep them for your lock collection or trade them to other people starting out. A hardware store is not library you can just borrow things, play with them, and give them back. Some local TOOOL chapters have locks you can borrow, but buying something, using it, then returning it is stealing.

[jehan60188]

That is a horrible idea. Just keep them for your lock collection or trade them to other people starting out. A hardware store is not library you can just borrow things, play with them, and give them back. Some local TOOOL chapters have locks you can borrow, but buying something, using it, then returning it is stealing.

Thanks for the tip. Locks are expensive!
I put an ad on craigslist
Do locksmiths really just have locks laying around?

[easy-e]

Thanks for the tip. Locks are expensive!
I put an ad on craigslist
Do locksmiths really just have locks laying around?

What state/city do you live in? Locks really aren't that expensive. Harbor freight routinely has sales on cheap locks.

Locksmiths turn in scrap locks for the brass or save them for parts. I've got a few with shackles that have been cut, but they still pick the same.

[easy-e]

You can post a thread "WTB: Beginner Padlocks" in Buy - Sell - Trade. There are also other threads in there where people are selling stuff. If you're not familiar with forums, WTB is Want to Buy. Per the rules, you only need 30 posts/30 days to sell or trade something. But there is no limitation on buying. viewtopic.php?f=11&t=56357

I would buy off of e-bay before going on craigslist. http://www.freecycle.org usually has free stuff. If you area has a Habitat for Humanity type of reclaimed construction material store you can sometimes find locks. Thrift stores frequently have locks too for a buck or so.