Collectibles-General (Antiques)/skeleton key locks

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Expert: - 5/20/2010


Question
How can I make a skeleton key for any antique lock that I have? Are there any methods you can suggest? Any books that will tell me how to make old locks work?

Answer
Hi Bryan
Nice to hear from you with this unusual question.
You cannot make a skeleton key unless you have the proper tools.
But a locksmith can easily do this for you.
Take the lock to a local smith and have it keyed. Very inexpensive job.
There could be books out there but there are things you can do without a book.
If the lock is seized, soak it in WD40 for a good while.
If the lock is just stubborn, often a squirt of oil into the key hole will do the trick.
Here are a couple of sites I know will be of interest.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4794418_pick-antique-lock.html

http://www.antique-locks.com/question-answer-forum/1166-brief-introduction-2.htm...

Great question
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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