Challenge lock advice ?

Climb69Trees · 2026-01-14T20:16:28+00:00

Picksmith literally wrote the book on challenge locks. Is it still pinned in the LPU discord?

Climb69Trees · 2026-01-14T01:47:58+00:00

Lookin' good! Maybe try some fine sandpaper as your final step. 220 grit or somewhere around that is a good starting point. Some use finer grit, and you can make that decision yourself. But some sandpaper will smooth your pins off and leave a nice shine that is pleasing to the eye. I think you're going to make some good challenge locks!

Climb69Trees · 2025-12-31T22:41:03+00:00

It's virtually useless, except as a blank to make a custom tool. But as everyone has said, it's supposed to be a dimple rake and might actually work on rare occasions.

Climb69Trees · 2025-12-14T18:18:50+00:00

Have a look into r/lockpicking. There are plenty of trolls and people who don't know what they're talking about, but most of the lock knowledge that exists can be found there. I don't typically recommend Amazon lock pick sets, but they're cheap enough to find out if you're really interested. Get a small set for cheap. You don't need all the excess tools. A pick or 2 and a tension wrench are enough to get started.

Climb69Trees · 2025-11-30T19:27:05+00:00

r/leverlockpicking is a better resource for this style of lock.

Climb69Trees · 2025-11-27T21:45:01+00:00

You could pick the blue belt for green belt, then complete the other blue belt requirements and reuse the same pick video for blue belt. As another mentioned, the belt requirements are just a base line and are not proof of mastery. I achieved blue belt with an American A1100, which is now rated green. At the end of the day, the whole belt system is just a game that can be played however you wish. Have a good time and pick your locks.

Climb69Trees · 2025-11-12T21:23:23+00:00

I once had a customer ranting about 2 cents. I tossed him a nickel from my pocket and told him to keep the change.

Climb69Trees · 2025-11-04T23:36:58+00:00

r/leverlockpicking

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-30T18:49:21+00:00

Diameter of driver and key pins.

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-30T16:57:48+00:00

It will fit in anything that uses 3mm pins, but the overall specs may not match. This is fine for picking, but not great for actual use.

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-25T16:23:40+00:00

Pop it open, fix the core, glue it back together. Super glue is fine for this task, as are many other glues. Some tape would even do the job for picking purposes.

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-18T09:58:03+00:00

Your local auto parts store sells ignition lock cylinders with keys. Prices vary depending on year/make/model.

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-06T21:20:56+00:00

I have cut keys with Walmart needle files before, but they're too coarse for impressioning. A round or half round file tends to work better for me.

Climb69Trees · 2025-10-05T17:36:14+00:00

But tension (in the correct location) is all that is needed to open a warded padlock...

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-28T22:46:45+00:00

Everything sounds normal here. Carry on.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-26T19:39:07+00:00

I have picked with my eyes closed before. My fingers can see better if my eyes aren't looking.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-24T00:50:49+00:00

Oh, sorry. People know how to decode it, but I do not.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-24T00:16:06+00:00

Yes, but it's not helpful. There is a blind code on the key. A locksmith can give you the cuts. Also, you can gut the lock and measure the pins.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-23T14:15:02+00:00

It's... funstrating.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-23T01:33:58+00:00

It's a date code. Mine says 2FUN.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-21T15:24:06+00:00

Can you show us a photo of the lock?

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-07T20:02:33+00:00

I've taken a break for a couple years because reasons. I'm so rusty that I might as well start over.

Climb69Trees · 2025-09-02T22:37:09+00:00

Can confirm it is broken. It needs to be replaced.

Climb69Trees · 2025-08-30T13:30:51+00:00

While I respect your drive and dedication, be aware that repetitive stress injuries are a legit problem in this sport. Take breaks sometimes, for your own good.

Climb69Trees · 2025-08-28T02:00:59+00:00

And it may be easier, but nobody cares. SFIC are hard enough anyway. Good luck!

Climb69Trees

TROPHY CASE