Yet another first lock picked

[jamo]

SOrry to bore everyone but i have just managed to pick a wafer lock on a cash box anyone got any suggestions for new locks? uk locks only please

[master in training]

you could get the cheapest euro cylinder from screwfix you can rekey it and effectively have 2 locks.

[Geek142]

Hey Jamo

Go to your hardware store nearby and purchase a Master padlock they are quite easy if you have been picking them for a bit but the master padlocks would be a good challenge and when you get it open the feeling will be awesome especially if the lock you are trying to pick is being stubborn. I think that they sell master padlocks in the UK but I’m not sure. And if you can’t find them just look around for some cheap padlocks but not the ones really cheap other wise they won’t give you much of a challenge.


Geek

[Elijah]

Go ahead and grab an Abus 41 while you're at it, it will be your ultimate goal as a recreational lockpicker, and will always frustrate you until the glorious day down the line when you crack it open. I just like to have a few things around that I cannot pick (The Abus 41 was this lock until I recently cracked it).

More for your skill, however, are Mortise cylinders. Although they may be tough right now, you could buy a few from the popular brands (I'm not sure what they sell in the UK, but in the states we have Shlage, Best, and a number of others). A Kwikset deadbolt lock would also be fantastic for you if they are available in your area. If you get one, make sure it has two locks in it (Two for the price of one!). You could always pick one and then repin it with the existing pins to make a different lock!

Good luck in your endeavors!

[Quin]

Era and Yale are good stepping stones. Get the X5 Yale if you want a real challenge.

[jamo]

ok thanks

[NKT]

You can pick up ERA 5 pin Yale-style lock cylinders for under £8. I would suggest getting two or three to play with.

They have no security pins, and a fairly standard keyway, and should keep you amused for hours, as you can easily strip it down and remove pins, etc. You will be able to pick one, two, etc pins, until you get to all five, then you can try your hand at the other one. Then you can re-pin to harder combos.

After that, get a proper Yale, which will have two security pins (spools) and a tighter keyway. Much more challenging!

Once you crack that, you are getting really good, and you will have to shop for higher end locks at car boots or whatever.

Don't forget, the UK has several other types of lock, including the mortise and lever locks, which are/can be far more difficult IMHO. After all, you know roughly what to do with a Yale style lock, even if only with two paperclips. With a 5 lever mortise, a Bramah, or even a simple lever lock, you need the right tools, or you will get nowhere.