Very rare Lock with Buddhist Swastika Keyway! (Pics + Video)

[Marduk28]

Hey Guys,

I posted this at Keypicking but thought some people here would be interested in seeing this super unique lock! It's a super rare 1st generation 12 Pin, 57mm, stainless steel, Lily Water Buddhist themed padlock!

This version has an engraved logo, hinged shackle, gold color keys and most importantly~ a keyway and key with the classic shaped Buddhist Swastika.







Here you can see the difference with the 2nd generation Brass version:






I did a little research and I found that the 2nd generation keyway is more of a "Malta" or "Japanese" Style Swastika, while the 1st Generation is more of a Tibetan style Swastika.



I am not sure why they changed their design, but it may have been due to complaints from people confusing the symbol with the Nazi symbol.

I found this is absolutely brand new condition. It had been sitting wrapped in plastic for many years. The shop keeper didn't even have a clue how long he had it-- so long he forgot! I was also able to grab some Key blanks from his dusty old key bin!

I made a video with a closer look and details here:

[Sublimis]

Wow, That is quite the lock. How much do those cost?

[Squelchtone]

I've always thought these were very intersting locks and keyways. Scorche had several of these at DEFCON or maybe it was Lockcon, I think he got them after a trip to.. shoot.. Thailand or Taiwan, some country out that way. I'll update this if I remember where he got them.

Thanks for sharing,
Squelchtone

[Marduk28]

Hi, Squelchtone!

These were made in Taiwan. I am currently living here~ giving me the chance to pick these up. I have been on a serious hunt for cool locks and have been to many stores here in many different cities.

This particular lock model has not been manufactured in a long time and is very hard to find. I still can't believe I found them in new condition. Usually lock stores around here sell their locks loose on the shelf, so they collect some dust and get a little discolored after several years exposed to light and air. Luckily these were wrapped up!

They are not cheap, but honestly they are so unique that I just had to get them!

[Paleo123]

That lock is wicked cool man! Have you tried to pick it yet?

[Marduk28]

I am actually way to nervous to try picking it!

I really don't want to make any scratches or blemishes. It's maybe my favorite lock so I want to keep it looking fresh!

I do have several of the 2nd generation brass versions though and those are actually really fun to pick! Depending on the size they have anywhere from 10-12 pins and you often have to change tension wrenches to different "arms" so you can access the pins. Also I usually find myself having to go back and set pins again as I drop them~ so I end up doing all sorts of twists and turns trying to get those things picked! I have a lot of fun with them!

I have completed my collection and have the full set of these locks. I am actually offering some of my extras for sale if anyone is interested~ Just PM me and I will give details.

Here are some photos:

Hidden Shackle version picked open:




Here is a family photo of all the Brass versions:



Notice the one second from the right, the one that looks like it has a double barrel. That one is actually a Push lock and I haven't been able to pick it yet! Instead of the classic rotational tension, you have to constantly be pulling on the shackle while picking it. My hands start burning really quickly and I have to let go.

These locks are actually pretty neat!

[GWiens2001]

Put the shackle of the push key lock into a vice (with cloth around the shackle and lock body). Then you can use a plastic tool similar to a screwdriver (so you don't scratch the lock) to apply light lifting tension to the lock body. Then you can pick the lock without having sore hands, Marduk. That is how I picked my first push key pin tumbler padlocks.

Gordon

[Marduk28]

Good idea Gordon!

Thanks for the advice! =D