Hey, all! I've recently delved into the realm of repining and things like that, and since I'm just starting, I don't have all of the correct tools that would normally be necessary for this type of work. Naturally, I had to improvise I started using a pick in my Gerber multi-tool to remove the C-clips on the back of the cylinders, and a -slightly- modified NERF dart as a plug follower. Ingenious, I know But the point of starting this thread is to start a discussion about the possibly less than normal methods you all may use in your hobby/career work. I know that sometimes when in the field, you can be forced to come up with some unorthodox tools in a pinch, and I would love to hear about them! I also think that it could be beneficial to someone else who may need a certain tool and could benefit from a cheaper method that might work just as well!
Also, Mods, I really wasn't sure where to post this. So if it's in the wrong place, please let me know or move it. Thanks
Do not try to pick the spool, that would be impossible. Instead, only try to realize the truth: There is no spool. Then you'll see that it is not the spool that's picked, it is only yourself.
GWiens2001 wrote:Close-up pictures of locks on vending machines with requests on how to pick them can be used to irritate admins and mods.
Gordon
Beautiful technique!
DISCLAIMER: Reader may posit an understanding of what was written, while this may not coincide with the intended meaning of what is read. Use of brain is required. One size fits all, and may contain traces of gibberish
Dental floss an be packed into the keyway as an improvised plug spinner.
? It sounds promising but the details are a bit fuzzy.
Close-up pictures of locks on vending machines with requests on how to pick them can be used to irritate admins and mods.
My favourite one is the "I'm a newbie and I have this lock which says "abloy" on it. How can I pick that? Pretty-please tell me all the secret pro tips which allow me to pick it in 3 minutes. Oh and I need to do it today, later this afternoon."
21 usd for the set and ridiculously low shipping cost. Mine should arrive on Friday latest, I'll let you know what is my impression. Buying it may not be too easy (site not too user friendly in English), you might have to contact the customer service, but they are helpful, they helped me with everything.
I haven't heard of this shop before, but since I paid with paypal I have the buyer's protection.
@ARF-GEF: Please let me know if the kit is good! I don't know what some tools are for, but I believe I see plug followers and those tools for euro cylinders
Go ahead, keep plugging away, picking on me! You will end up on bypass or with rigor mortise. - GWiens2001
Follower can be made from lots of things, rolled up dollar bill is one I've used, pens for odd size plugs.
Mostly though I like to have the proper tool for the job on hand, and I like to keep my workspace organized so I can find everything. Time is money, and time spent digging around for a tool or improvising a tool costs me money.
Ok here you are: Left bottom:plug flowers. Above them are plug-trays(not sure about the name) you can put a pinned up bible in it and it stops the pins from falling out. To the right? Maybe shorter plug followers? Not sure... Middle down: To keep the top/bottom (=not-keypins) in the lock when you repin the lock. To the right bottom: pliers, probably crappy quality Above that tweezers (probably crappy quality) Top right: Circlip remover. You can do that with 2 sharp screwdrivers too. Or a sharpie cap if you are in the US.)
... but dental floss? That is some REALLY BIG dental floss!
Oral B has a thicker one. It's pretty good for you teeth too.
OK so I got the packet from China, from Aminlock. Here you go:
I bought the Lock disassembly tool(12 pcs) (AML020061).
I am totally satisfied! It was packed well and the shipping was incredibly fast! Plus the shipping cots were incredibly low. It would have cots more and took me more time ifI ordered it from the UK or Germany for example.
The tools themselves look good, my fist impression was that they are surprisingly well-made. (Especially for only 21$. But even if they were more expensive.) Not the slightest manufacturing defect, even the finish is flawless. The construction is well thought-through you can see that they knew what they were doing. It contains all the basics for taking apart, repining and servicing Euro locks and I think even some padlocks. I have to say I haven't tested them for a long time, but based on my experiences so far I can only say good good things about it. I have expected something worse, but now that I have it I can't find any problem. (Maybe the pliers are not the best, but I that really is nit-picking.)
I am despite leaning to a perfectionist totally satisfied. Since I can't say anything bad about either the product or the shipping and the customer care it's: 9.5/10: Strongly recommended. (-0,5 because of the pliers, but come on..)
P.S.:They actually just sent me an email, asking whether the shipping arrived all right and whether I'm satisfied with the product. (For a purchase worth of 21usd!) That is what I call truly outstanding customer care. I have barely ever experience such level of service. From the slight problems with registration at their site to the very end they gave excellent and fast support.
After such a review I have to state that I am in no affiliation whatsoever with Aminlocks or the manufacturer. I have no conflict of interest.
I started using a pick in my Gerber multi-tool to remove the C-clips on the back of the cylinders, and a -slightly- modified NERF dart as a plug follower. Ingenious, I know 
But the point of starting this thread is to start a discussion about the possibly less than normal methods you all may use in your hobby/career work. I know that sometimes when in the field, you can be forced to come up with some unorthodox tools in a pinch, and I would love to hear about them! I also think that it could be beneficial to someone else who may need a certain tool and could benefit from a cheaper method that might work just as well! 
