An Older Lock - Help

[SleepingLyric]

I've learnt alot about more modern locks since I've started to pick locks but how would I go about picking an older lock, with a "chunkier" key - like one that is behind the "traditional" shape of a keyhole?

And what would the terminology be for it?

Thanks in advance

[mcm757207]

Either "Warded" or "Lever," Warded is where the key directly engages the bolt but has to bypass certain obstructions in the keyway, and lever is where the key lifts two or more levers to the correct height so the bolt can be retracted through notches in the levers. That's pretty fague, but you can prolly find more by seraching.

[MrB]

You are in the UK, so the locks with a "traditional" shape of keyhole are mortice lever locks. They might have a long history, but they are not in any way old fashioned. Some of them can offer rather good security, and are very hard to pick without special tools. On the other hand, some are very easy to pick with two bent wires and would be fun to try.

Look in the European section for posts about lever locks, and search on the same topic, and you will find plenty on the subject.

[SleepingLyric]

Thanks, both of you! I'll get back to my second favourite pastime now and get researching!