AboutJames Expertise I am knowledgeable in almost every area of Locksmithing. This includes locks, keys, lost keys, residential and commercial lockouts, rekeying, masterkeying, high security locks, access control, electric locks, security cameras and home safety. I have been running an online business since 2004 where I sell all types of lock and security hardware to everyone from apartment renters to business owners to the US government. Before that I started a locksmith service in 1999. I deal with many types of security equipment including high security safe locks, heavy duty padlocks, exit devices, biometric readers, electric strikes, magnetic locks, full surface hinges and I only sell what I personally stand behind 100%. The online business has given me a more in-depth look at the locksmithing industry, helping me to learn more about each and every product that I offer, as well as products I don't have but end up finding for customers to solve any issues they have with security or door hardware.
Please don't submit any automotive or safe questions as these aren't areas that I can help in.
Experience I have been Locksmithing since 1999 and own my own Locksmithing business. I have many years of hands-on experience through the many services I have performed for my customers. I've run my business the way I wanted, treating everyone as I would like to be treated and knowing that any customer could be my last if I didn't perform my locksmithing duties as I had promised.
Organizations Montana Locksmith Association
Education/Credentials I have a diploma in Masterkeying, Advanced Locksmithing & Locksmithing from Foley-Belsaw.
Past/Present Clients US government, colleges, schools, city and state governments, large and small corporations, home owners.
Question I have a pair of Tower (Single lock) handcuffs from the late 1860's. I also have the key. Here's my problem...The inside of the locks are so rusted that the key will not unlock the mechanisms. I sprayed WD40 and PB Blaster in the keyhole to loosen the mechanism up, but to no avail. Do you know of any other method of removing the compounded rust to restore them to working order?
Answer Hello Michal,
If WD-40 didn't work the only option, and to keep them as well, would be to disassemble them which may not be possible depending on how they were manufactured, then clean them.
I've not dealt with handcuffs before but WD-40 is about the only thing I know of that will remove rust.
You can try soaking them in a small bucket of WD-40 for 24 hours to see if that helps.
