And remember, he'll sound just as smooth in the courtroom... so when you need to impress a judge, hire this'un! "Your Honor, my client did not mean to pick the lock; it fell open while he was examining its pinning." ;)
I remember going into a locksmith's store at one point and they had a number of locks for sale and they were all Master locks. I asked the guy if he had any other locks and he told me that was the gold standard. I chuckled to myself and walked out.
Lol “locksmith” store. As you well know, they’re just standard, not the gold standard. They’re cheap, which makes them popular. They’re good for your self esteem if you’re having trouble with a harder lock though.
Paper weight Door stop Bacon press Fishing weight Model boat anchor Improvised weapon Blunderbuss ammo Hitching post for anemic mice I'm sure there are more, but those were the first that popped into my mind.
I mean, they're basically for making things marginally harder to get into. Sometimes that's totally sufficient, you know, in a "keep the kids out of the shed" kinda way.
I bought one of these locks and put it on my back fence. It stopped the problem... which was my dog flipping the catch with her nose and taking untethered walks. I bought it not because I thought I was getting "level 5 security" like the package proclaimed, but because it was the cheapest lock on the shelf. I just wanted something that looked better than a bent coathanger through the catch. Masterlock: Smarter than the dog.
Frankly you can’t really use them for training. I have no clue of lock picking and was able to pick this new version of the No. 3 with a normal hook on the first attempt in hardly 5 seconds. Raking most of the times takes two seconds.
Lol idk where you live but the crappy master locks I've bought in the past were about 15each at the cheapest but they still were not worth locking anything up worth the price of the lock. A well tied knot on some Kevlar rope would be better.
I commented on another video of yours about how I started watching your channel because I started taking up locks at the hardware store where I work. You always broke down how the locks work very well and picking them explained how they worked perfectly. Well, this exact lock needed picking today at work because someone locked the only key to a cabinet we have inside the cabinet. I remembered seeing this and knew Masterlock was a joke. It was a number three and I popped it with a screwdriver and a bent wire I use for all my locks just because I like it. Now my coworkers are afraid of me and I love it.
You'd think they would at least make their locks inconspicuous. Not only is it a bad design, but it is easy to recognize visually from further away than any other pad lock in existence. There's nothing quite like a mini Master billboard advertising free stuff. My old man used a bunch of these. It's a good thing he's cheap and never has really nice stuff to steal. The real question is can the popularity of LPL and internet culture raise awareness enough to kill such a tenured brand? This could become an interesting case study for 21st century business practice and modern consumer awareness. I know I would never buy a Master Lock branded product solely due to what I've seen here. -Jake
Physical security is so interesting. Id argue a master lock 3 is not as bad as you might think in the real world. Working from the assumption the lock is protecting something not incredibly valuable so there is no justification for putting an expensive lock on it. Most pad locks are susceptible to twisting or cutting attacks. Those are no skill attacks that are for more common than picking. So it does not really matter if you spent $20 more dollars the lock gets defeated either way. However, there are definitely times people should be putting at the very least a medium security lock up and have no idea how shitty master locks are.
No, I seriously doubt the internet will kill Master Locks. The average consumer doesn't do a second of research, they need a lock, they go to the store, they buy the one that makes them _feel_ most secure. This is something solid, steel, advertising durability (many years ago they claimed to be resistant to axes). What's more, the entire notion of criminals picking locks is a little bit... old fashioned? Most crime is an act of opportunity: seeing something and grabbing it. Your career thief is looking to enter a house and clean it out of easily sellable items when no one's home. Their skill set is reconnaissance: figuring out the least secure house in the neighborhood, the one that leaves the backdoor unlocked or whose garage door opener can be hacked with a little device. Metal Padlocks generally protect things much less valuable than a house: a gate, a shed, a piece of equipment. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it would take a high-profile incident where someone picked a Master Lock IRL and stole something valuable, then someone like a locksmith or a cop would have to _tell_ the homeowner how shitty Master Locks really are, and then the news or internet would have to pick up the story. It just won't happen. They probably sell so many of these things, and so vanishingly few % of them are ever picked that the lockbuying public won't figure it out.
Not gonna happen. In a world where people want to pay the least amount of money for something they feel they "need" but dont feel they need it to be the best in the world see a product like this, see the name "master" on it really big and know the name has been around for a long time so its prob half decent, right? lol Then they see the cheap price along with it and think, "hey Im getting a deal here, a good quality lock and for that price... Ill take it." Then they see the "even stronger" sticker and think, damn it must be my lucky day... cant get any better than that!... lol People dont do any sort of actual research when it comes to things like a basic ass padlock unless they are trying to protect or keep something extremely valuable (whether it be monetary or sentimental) or they know how easy most locks can be compromised. I mean if someone wants to get into somewhere or something and see a padlock, they arent going to even think about picking it unless thats the only tool they have on them.. The first thing they will reach for is going to be some nice big bolt cutters or a prybar/hammer/torch. Obviously it depends on the situation but unless u absolutely have to look like u are just opening a lock or need to be able to relock it and make it look like it hasnt been tampered with, picking a lock is the last choice a bugler is going to use anyways.
He managed to get a couple easy ones, you can tell by the keys. I got 3 of these, one has a key that looks like the first one he opened (on the left at the start of the vid) that will open easily and 2 more that are a lot tougher.
I think Master is doing a terrific job and doesn't need to change a thing! Keep up the good work! I do have an observation I'd like to point out... that many, many people who have been in the Master Lock distro channels for years and years, have sold lots and lots of MLC #3s, haven't ever noticed. And, as a West Point guy, it really bothers me because of the "don't lie, cheat, or steal" that's ingrained in us. Count the number of rivet heads on the top of the lock... ... then count the number on the bottom. Hopefully something didn't add up for you, and that's because the set of rivets that are seemingly in the middle of the lock are not really there. The top plate has two pretend rivet heads pressed into the metal plate to give the appearance of real rivets. I'm sure years ago when MLC was designing the #3, they realized they didn't have room to add that third set of rivets in the middle. But having only four rivets looks weak. What to do, what to do? Well, MLC decided to pretend there are two rivets there! And pretending to be something you're not is not what I'd consider to be following the cadet honor code!
PACLOCK PRES. REALLY NOTHING NEEDS A CHANGE? that’s stupid what you said they need to put 6 pin cores in the locks with security pins you can literally pick the locks in 5 seconds and pick with paper clips these locks are terrible use abloy protec 2 instead
Thank you 'Master lock' people. The number 3 is just the ticket for a newb just starting out. (like me). The vast majority of comments seem to be coming from folks whose fist attempt easily picked a six pin, paracentric, sprung core, loaded lock with spool, serrated and mushroom pins. Some of us were not born so gifted. Many of us will graduate to much more challenging locks after long, dedicated practice. p.s. not yet having a white belt, I must rely on suspenders.
I know this video is old and these are the easiest locks to open, but I just used this technique to open my first real lock and love this feeling. Now, on to real picking with a little bit of confidence. Thank you!
Thanks for the video. I've been following you for years, and I consider lock picking a good hobby. However, today it finally came in useful. Someone was throwing away a ten-foot-length of chain because they lost the keys to the (above) locks. I scooped it, happy to have a project. My cheaper pick-set didn't have the same rakes, but once you mentioned the 4-pin configuration - what I was feeling inside made sense. Had them open in almost no time at all. Now I have some practice locks, and a section of link chain (that I'm sure will be useful for something). Thanks! (time to upgrade my EDC set)
a coworker of mine gave me his lock picking kit. I've never picked a lock before, but watch your video's all the time. I grabbed a couple Masterlock #3's we had laying around, and picked them surprisingly easy. I then found you can just rake it with pretty much anything that fits in there. I'll never trust a 4-pin masterlock lol.
Funny thing is people are stingy about the lockout tagout hasps there, and someone took the key to this lock so nobody else could use it (stupid right?) so now we can use the hasp again without resorting to cutting the lock up.
Hello there, I took up lock picking as a random hobby and I have watched some videos and practiced with picks. Now I am really interested in combo locks. But I love your videos and I hope to hoan my skills to be close to your skillset someday. I enjoy your work. Thanks for the videos.
Hola Lawyer, tengo la grata satisfacción de ser un seguidor tuyo, vi casi todos tus videos eres realmente un maestro de maestros en la apertura de cerraduras, tienes una habilidad y destreza admirable. FELICIDADES y GRACIAS por todos tus videos, gracias a ellos aprendo cada día algo más. Te mando un abrazo sincero desde Sucre Bolivia.
They are good for low security needs. My classroom has those locks to lock up all the wood cabinets used to store tools and welding supplies. It stops students from accidentally going into a cabinets they aren't supposed to.
So glad you're doing these videos. Now that i'm following you for years i'm over and over again shocked by how insecure locks are. Obviously almost any kid can open many of these instantly. I totally don't understand why a renowned company produces such crap. Maybe there's a kid around you can manage to show on camera opening locks like these, hoping to be an eye opener for some company .
Wow! Please do a LPL recommended lock series soon. I have a ton of these locks and was able rake and shake all my locks without issue. Didn't realize how easy it was after trying it myself.
My job locked up our $6,000 devices we use to check pain woth masterlocks due to them getting broken. Thanks to you I got a great laugh apon seeing that
Had one of these on my oil tank, lost keys, watched this vid, I had it open in less than 2 mins, with ink pen clip and an old ground down key..... I used teflon for lube since the lock had been outside for nearly 2 years. Thanks for helping me.... one day I might find the key to it...
Could not see clearly in the video, but are those ball bearings spring loaded? Without a solid stop behind them they should still be vulnerable to shimming and rap attacks.
After a week and a half.. I just use these for recreational reasons now.. Keep my hands busy while im reading or watching something, pick, pop, lock, pick, pop, lock... Taking maybe 15 to 20 sec each time single pin picking it at this point... Really not good locks for security... But damn good for a.d.d and therapeutic purposes An hour ago i recently just popped this mystery 6 pin lock i got a couple days ago (mystery to me, a relative found it scrapping one night, didnt have a key so gave it to me to use for more practice and experience, interchangeable american lock padlock series 3560? and looks like the locks been changed before so i dont know if it was the original or not inside it and turned out to be all standard pins anyways..) really loving this hobby and learning alot every day
I thought that the jokes about master lock were hyperbole, then i found an old master lock and was able to rake it open with homemade tools in around a minute
Love your videos. So entertaining don’t forget if you already hadn’t told people about “cheap” lock pic sets I’m a starter bought something for like $30 came with tons of stuff. Everything broke in minutes. Lol I then ordered from you.
Hi Harry, Thanks for showing, without your video most wouldn't have known about the redesigned locking system on The Master No.3 padlock - myself included. Kudos to Master for that. It does seem strange that the little brass Master 140 padlock contains spools ( made in China I'm sure ) and yet the much heavier No.3 has none. I'm led to believe Master's dial combination padlocks are now made in Mexico, and I guess many others are as well. If Master's Lockout padlocks can include security pins along with the 140, it doesn't seem much of a jump to include them in their other 4 pin locks. A complete retool to 5 pin, I'm sure, is out of the question. Only the Locksport Community give Master a hard time, the buying public are totally unaware of the weaknesses of a standard 4 pin core, no excuses ... but the truth none the less. Perhaps Master are moving in the right direction, first ball bearing locking, next some security pins maybe ......? Regards, Brian.
Brian Hignett yup... master locks product line doesn’t make sense as a cohesive whole... like a car company’s might. So many legacy products. They really need to streamline their offerings... though expensive, it would probably be cheaper in the long run, and result in better offerings. But when they spend the money to redesign something and fail to move their products closer into alignment, then it enters the realm of poor management imo.
I can't imagine security pins costing that much more to manufacture than plain ones. It boggles my mind why they don't use them in even the cheapest of lock models. What am I not understanding? Please comment.
Most braking and entertaining cutting is usually used. There are lock guards and sleeves available to help getting to the lock more difficult. But yes, Master locks need to improve the inner mechanisms.
I just remembered what that tool you were asking me about was. It wasn't kwikset it was a miniaturized version of the schlage L series spanner wrench for tightening the multipart collar on the L series mortise cylinder. The normal one is double sided but that one was so compact I loved it.
Thanks for the information. If they really wanted to improve the whole lock, the core could use more than 4 pins, and like you said, security pins. The ball bearing locking is a nice improvement.
It's because the overwhelming majority of criminals never even look at the core in the first place. Very few know how to pick, and even fewer have the tools to pick. 99% of the time they're going to be using a destructive attack and Master Lock knows it. That's why their security ratings are based entirely on physical robustness.
I just got a Southord PXS-14 pick set delivered today. First time trying to pick. I have a Master Lock no 3. At first I was able to open the lock with the city rake twice and take it open once more. Since then, no dice after over an hour. I obviously need lots of practice. But could I have broken the lock somehow so that I'm unable to pick out now? The core is really loose. The key still works though. Love your vids!
I purchased a No.3 recently along with the covert instruments Genesis set. Perhaps I don't fully understand how to do it or something, but I wasn't able to rake it. Not really having developed skills yet, I'm probably wrong, but it's at least possible there may be security pins in there. Still only a 4 pin lock though. (I noted the packaging today is a bit different from in this video and donsn't carry the stickers seen in the video).
Recently saw what I believe was a master lock 3 long shackle version with a visible bump by the keyway. It was in use so I didn’t investigate any further.
I bought a starters lockpick set, and 3 different master locks. The No. 3 is the only one I just can’t seem to get open. I have no idea why. Guess this means I’m not cut out for this hahah.
Also... It is worth mentioning that they make a range of locks.....and this is not the higher end of their security....pro series offers balls, laminated body, and a 5-6 pin core with spools and serrated pin.
These were the first training locks i got for my kids to go with their Genesis sets. My 12 year old can pop them in less than 10 seconds with the shallow hook.
@LockPickingLawyer Your number3 looks more like my number1. The number3 I have has a plastic covering and I’m finding is trickier for me to pick compared to when I pick the one similar to the one in this vid. I’m a just misinformed about what number is what?
I can't seem to get it 😅 Got the two rake picks in the covert companion, the ergo turning set for applying tension clockwise from the bottom of the keyhole opening, and idk what I'm missing, because I can't seem to get the no 3 key open 🤔
i think out of all of these videos, what i've taken away from it is "nothing will make you distrust the government and prepare for disaster scenarios like becoming a lawyer"
We have these at work, and today I just had to try picking one for the fun of it. Using the tools on hand, an .050” and 1/16” Allen wrench, it took about three seconds to open. Wow.
I'll give Master Lock credit for addressing a major flaw in their lock design. And while it's harder to fit more pins into that sized lock, a couple security pins from their LOTO locks would go a long way. It's better, but still not good.
Great review. People purchase master lock for the name unless they watch video they think there getting high security sense it's the brand there buying and they been around for decades. My opinion only.😎
Master got the ball bearing idea when they bought out American Lock and all of their patents in 2003. I got an older American H10 from the 1980s that has ball bearings.
So i know this may sound weird, but I've recently picked up this skill and your recommended set (Covert something, sorry, foggy brain and adhd) for survival training, home carpentry, repairing hand and arm dexterity, and cause my fiance threw a shoe at me for locking us out of our bedroom a month ago... and i want to know if this is a real thing: I grew up with the Master of Unlocking wayyyy back in the days of good media, and one thing that always bugs me is "Locked with a SIMPLE lock." So whomever is kind enough to humor me, is there a community approved "simple lock" category or is that just one of the many things the Japanese got wrong with media/ skillsets (say a trope like: Artistic License: Security?) It wouldn't be surprising, but one thing i learned is it's best to ask even the simplest questions cause they can help solidify educational fundamentals!
I had pick it twice, did work. Then try with the key two more time to be sure it is still working. Then i went for the third time and a pin seems to have jammed and the core is a little bit off. Try to open it with the key again but in vain… My question is, can a core fail by trying to pick it in a wrong manner or technique and if so, can i send it to you so you can confirm whatever happen? Thank you so much for you channel, it inspire me to do picking and it relax me because my hand shake a lot so i work on that. If you ever reply and if you wanna look at how i pick, i have a playlist on my channel. @LockPickingLawyer thank you so much, you are an inspiration for me to start pickin, just began last month but i have watched hundreds of you videos before starting this hobby 😁 Thank you, and a have a nice day
Hi! I’m new to picking. I have a ML 3 and a Pertonson set of picks. I’ve been able to pick this lock with a city rake and a small hook. Lately I haven’t been able to pick it with either. I’ve watched your video and others. They all make it look so easy. Do you have any idea what my problem could be? Thanks.
Hey, you know what... I'll give them credit for it. I think for a majority of use cases improving the locking mechanism was a major improvement. Seems like most crooks are going to come in with hammers and bolt cutters, not rakes or even padlock shims. Everyone praises things like the ABUS titalium locks for being pick resistant, but personally I would never recommend most of them for real-world use because they use standard spring-loaded locking bars. Some, but not all, can be shimmed, and I doubt that many would stand up to a firm smack with a hammer.
"And that one opened even faster." Well yeah, look at the bitting on that fuckin' key! All 4 pins right in a row, you could stick anything in there and just lift the pins a bit and twist and it's open.
Just because it has ball bearings, perhaps only a minor improvement -- what is the actuator made out of that holds those ball bearings in place -- Plastic? Zinc? wonder what the pull strength is? Perhaps "don't pull to hard"? {so as to not crush the actuator; should be in the disclaimer warning) -- maybe even a strong shim could collapse the actuator? (it's only a Master) -- SO LPL, let's see you give it a pull test, eh?
@@lockpickinglawyer A quick "disassembly" revealed a zinc cast actuator -- Still wonder if a shackle "pull strength test" would actually show improvement over the previous design? I would hope it would (but no "cheating" with torch to melt the zinc actuator, but why bother when you can rake it open in a second or two) -- added note; ball bearings are steel at 6.27 mm dia -- I was going to replace them with 6 mm plastic air soft BB's to make it more secure, wonder why Master didn't think of that?
Ken Nixon I’ve done some strength testing with the Ramset and my hydraulic press. On 6 locks, I had 3 broken shackles and 3 with no apparent damage. I suspect a deformed actuator is the culprit, but I haven’t gotten around to the autopsies yet.
I saw this in the hardware store.....I looked at the key first to see if it was changed to five pins....but no. Then i looked at the keyway and you will also notice the bottom plate looks like a anti drill plate as it is definitely different from the old models. Glad they use balls now lol.
Bro I’m struggling with even raking this shitty of a lock, I have a few number 3’s in my possession and idk if it’s the quality of my lockpicks or what but I can’t get these things open
So I'm just curious is the 33 thumbs down from Masterlock share holders? Hahahaha really how could you thumbsdown this genius? Thank you Sir, you re-lit a hobby that I forgot was so challenging and rewarding..
I just got into picking because of LPL and Locknub, I always wanted to do it, and I'm hooked now, I started with the MPXS-8 from Southord, and I just received 4 combs sparrows set and extra picks from Southord, I have already outgrown my creeper case in the last 2 mounts I'm getting the comp case from sparrows next, I have a #3 for 30 years and it's so worn out, it won't let me pick it open, the key still works, but picking it drives me crazy, I've done it a few times, I've spent a few hours so far, the core walks all over the place, but it is just flat-out worn out, Update, I have success with top of the keyway attack, now I can open it in less than 10 seconds every time, so satisfying to know I could get it right, seems you can't pick it if you don't try
Would you mind please recommending some locks that one might use on a locker or on luggage when traveling outside of the United States. One that cannot be shimmed or raked open easily. Thank you.
Hey there! I was given 4 of the older style NO 3's with no keys. I am a brand new picker so started with city rake to try to open them. After I got to the point where I was opening consistently with the city rake I decided to try single pin picking. I wasn't having luck until the pick seemed to go further back then I expected. Since then I discovered I can open all 4 by putting the pick all the was back in pushing up.... Why would this be? Really bad biting on locks keyed alike? or?
![[188] My Approach to Lock Picking Tension](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9O-CJEwcQnY/mqdefault.jpg)
![[626] A Pick Proof Master Lock? ALMOST!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/jgWS4TdLFAE/mqdefault.jpg)
![[479] The Master Lock Paradox - Model 410 LOTO Padlock](/img/n.gif)
A key that opens many locks is called a master key. A lock that is opened with pretty much anything is called a Master Lock.
They are look resistant because no one that wants actual security looks at them
If u put this sentence on tho dtheo women, sense would be totaly diferent 😉
@@o0kizzle0oWhat?
Guy finds one joke > posts it everywhere. Stop
Your milky smooth voice makes picking locks much more enjoyable and, dare I say, comfortable.
RedTeamReview ...That's How he lubricates them... a little smooth talking...
And remember, he'll sound just as smooth in the courtroom... so when you need to impress a judge, hire this'un! "Your Honor, my client did not mean to pick the lock; it fell open while he was examining its pinning." ;)
Rez Zircon the pick don't fit, you must acquit!
Good one :D
HBO must've used Masterlocks to secure their season 7 episodes.
I remember going into a locksmith's store at one point and they had a number of locks for sale and they were all Master locks. I asked the guy if he had any other locks and he told me that was the gold standard. I chuckled to myself and walked out.
Lol “locksmith” store.
As you well know, they’re just standard, not the gold standard. They’re cheap, which makes them popular. They’re good for your self esteem if you’re having trouble with a harder lock though.
@@lukepippin4781 Gold standard? Fool's gold.
Let’s be honest, what would master locks be good for if not training amateur lock pickers?
Paper weight
Door stop
Bacon press
Fishing weight
Model boat anchor
Improvised weapon
Blunderbuss ammo
Hitching post for anemic mice
I'm sure there are more, but those were the first that popped into my mind.
I mean, they're basically for making things marginally harder to get into. Sometimes that's totally sufficient, you know, in a "keep the kids out of the shed" kinda way.
I bought one of these locks and put it on my back fence. It stopped the problem... which was my dog flipping the catch with her nose and taking untethered walks.
I bought it not because I thought I was getting "level 5 security" like the package proclaimed, but because it was the cheapest lock on the shelf. I just wanted something that looked better than a bent coathanger through the catch.
Masterlock: Smarter than the dog.
Frankly you can’t really use them for training.
I have no clue of lock picking and was able to pick this new version of the No. 3 with a normal hook on the first attempt in hardly 5 seconds.
Raking most of the times takes two seconds.
Literally have a chain of 4 different ones I practice on. Started a few weeks ago. Not difficult
Rest on their laurels? They have no laurels to rest on. They sell millions of these locks because you can buy a four pack for about nine bucks.
Lol idk where you live but the crappy master locks I've bought in the past were about 15each at the cheapest but they still were not worth locking anything up worth the price of the lock. A well tied knot on some Kevlar rope would be better.
I'd say the actual laurels here are that this is one of the padlocks that got a lot of new people into picking.
Master Lock is the same as Maglite or Gerber knives. Their products are in big box stores so they don't need to try anymore.
I dont hear laurel, i hear yanny
@@MiguelBotequilhaPapuno LMAO, That's great.
0:18 "I picked few..."
That's a pun.
I commented on another video of yours about how I started watching your channel because I started taking up locks at the hardware store where I work. You always broke down how the locks work very well and picking them explained how they worked perfectly.
Well, this exact lock needed picking today at work because someone locked the only key to a cabinet we have inside the cabinet. I remembered seeing this and knew Masterlock was a joke. It was a number three and I popped it with a screwdriver and a bent wire I use for all my locks just because I like it. Now my coworkers are afraid of me and I love it.
You'd think they would at least make their locks inconspicuous. Not only is it a bad design, but it is easy to recognize visually from further away than any other pad lock in existence. There's nothing quite like a mini Master billboard advertising free stuff. My old man used a bunch of these. It's a good thing he's cheap and never has really nice stuff to steal.
The real question is can the popularity of LPL and internet culture raise awareness enough to kill such a tenured brand? This could become an interesting case study for 21st century business practice and modern consumer awareness. I know I would never buy a Master Lock branded product solely due to what I've seen here.
-Jake
Physical security is so interesting. Id argue a master lock 3 is not as bad as you might think in the real world. Working from the assumption the lock is protecting something not incredibly valuable so there is no justification for putting an expensive lock on it. Most pad locks are susceptible to twisting or cutting attacks. Those are no skill attacks that are for more common than picking. So it does not really matter if you spent $20 more dollars the lock gets defeated either way.
However, there are definitely times people should be putting at the very least a medium security lock up and have no idea how shitty master locks are.
@@alexdavis9324 LOL, good point. If I see a #3 locking a shed door I'm gonna assume there's nothing inside worth stealing.
@@Cruising_On_Lake_Havasoma most sheds have the hinges on the outside of the door. I swear people watch this channel and their brain stops working
No, I seriously doubt the internet will kill Master Locks. The average consumer doesn't do a second of research, they need a lock, they go to the store, they buy the one that makes them _feel_ most secure. This is something solid, steel, advertising durability (many years ago they claimed to be resistant to axes). What's more, the entire notion of criminals picking locks is a little bit... old fashioned? Most crime is an act of opportunity: seeing something and grabbing it. Your career thief is looking to enter a house and clean it out of easily sellable items when no one's home. Their skill set is reconnaissance: figuring out the least secure house in the neighborhood, the one that leaves the backdoor unlocked or whose garage door opener can be hacked with a little device. Metal Padlocks generally protect things much less valuable than a house: a gate, a shed, a piece of equipment.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that it would take a high-profile incident where someone picked a Master Lock IRL and stole something valuable, then someone like a locksmith or a cop would have to _tell_ the homeowner how shitty Master Locks really are, and then the news or internet would have to pick up the story. It just won't happen.
They probably sell so many of these things, and so vanishingly few % of them are ever picked that the lockbuying public won't figure it out.
Not gonna happen. In a world where people want to pay the least amount of money for something they feel they "need" but dont feel they need it to be the best in the world see a product like this, see the name "master" on it really big and know the name has been around for a long time so its prob half decent, right? lol Then they see the cheap price along with it and think, "hey Im getting a deal here, a good quality lock and for that price... Ill take it." Then they see the "even stronger" sticker and think, damn it must be my lucky day... cant get any better than that!... lol
People dont do any sort of actual research when it comes to things like a basic ass padlock unless they are trying to protect or keep something extremely valuable (whether it be monetary or sentimental) or they know how easy most locks can be compromised. I mean if someone wants to get into somewhere or something and see a padlock, they arent going to even think about picking it unless thats the only tool they have on them.. The first thing they will reach for is going to be some nice big bolt cutters or a prybar/hammer/torch. Obviously it depends on the situation but unless u absolutely have to look like u are just opening a lock or need to be able to relock it and make it look like it hasnt been tampered with, picking a lock is the last choice a bugler is going to use anyways.
I literally spent like an hour trying to do what u did in seconds
Practice does indeed make perfect. He’s been doing this for a looong time.
"Low skill attack"
@@Nickesponja it really is. If you practice for like an hour and experiment with various picks, you can open these in like a second.
He managed to get a couple easy ones, you can tell by the keys. I got 3 of these, one has a key that looks like the first one he opened (on the left at the start of the vid) that will open easily and 2 more that are a lot tougher.
@@Cruising_On_Lake_Havasoma rip
I think Master is doing a terrific job and doesn't need to change a thing! Keep up the good work!
I do have an observation I'd like to point out... that many, many people who have been in the Master Lock distro channels for years and years, have sold lots and lots of MLC #3s, haven't ever noticed. And, as a West Point guy, it really bothers me because of the "don't lie, cheat, or steal" that's ingrained in us.
Count the number of rivet heads on the top of the lock...
... then count the number on the bottom.
Hopefully something didn't add up for you, and that's because the set of rivets that are seemingly in the middle of the lock are not really there. The top plate has two pretend rivet heads pressed into the metal plate to give the appearance of real rivets. I'm sure years ago when MLC was designing the #3, they realized they didn't have room to add that third set of rivets in the middle. But having only four rivets looks weak. What to do, what to do?
Well, MLC decided to pretend there are two rivets there! And pretending to be something you're not is not what I'd consider to be following the cadet honor code!
PACLOCK PRES. REALLY NOTHING NEEDS A CHANGE? that’s stupid what you said they need to put 6 pin cores in the locks with security pins you can literally pick the locks in 5 seconds and pick with paper clips these locks are terrible use abloy protec 2 instead
@@jeseniahernandez8795 he was most likely being sarcastic, judging by the tone of the rest of the writing
PACLOCK PRES. AND YOUR LOCKS SUCK TO EASY TO PICK KING ABLOY!!!!!!!
@@jeseniahernandez8795 bruh
@@jeseniahernandez8795 Are you okay
But they do resist bullets, which is how most burglars open a lock, right?
Michelle Eden or a bazooka... ;)
Master Lock: resists attacks by rifle, defeated by paperclip
All I can think of now is the episode of the simpsons where homer gets a gun and uses it for everything
Two wrenches, if they're being quiet.
bosnianbill has a video on it
Masterlock 'resting on their laurels' is deserved of an Urban Dictionary comedy usage example.
Thank you 'Master lock' people. The number 3 is just the ticket for a newb just starting out. (like me). The vast majority of comments seem to be coming from folks whose fist attempt easily picked a six pin, paracentric, sprung core, loaded lock with spool, serrated and mushroom pins. Some of us were not born so gifted. Many of us will graduate to much more challenging locks after long, dedicated practice. p.s. not yet having a white belt, I must rely on suspenders.
I know this video is old and these are the easiest locks to open, but I just used this technique to open my first real lock and love this feeling. Now, on to real picking with a little bit of confidence. Thank you!
Too bad. My favorite thing about #3 was that it can be opened by hitting it with two hammers on both sides.
Four hammers! :)
As they say in the Bahamas, "Better than what it was". LOL
Thanks for the video. I've been following you for years, and I consider lock picking a good hobby. However, today it finally came in useful. Someone was throwing away a ten-foot-length of chain because they lost the keys to the (above) locks. I scooped it, happy to have a project. My cheaper pick-set didn't have the same rakes, but once you mentioned the 4-pin configuration - what I was feeling inside made sense. Had them open in almost no time at all. Now I have some practice locks, and a section of link chain (that I'm sure will be useful for something). Thanks! (time to upgrade my EDC set)
Dear LPL, you are very diplomatic.
a coworker of mine gave me his lock picking kit. I've never picked a lock before, but watch your video's all the time. I grabbed a couple Masterlock #3's we had laying around, and picked them surprisingly easy. I then found you can just rake it with pretty much anything that fits in there. I'll never trust a 4-pin masterlock lol.
Funny thing is people are stingy about the lockout tagout hasps there, and someone took the key to this lock so nobody else could use it (stupid right?) so now we can use the hasp again without resorting to cutting the lock up.
I have a Master Lock No.3 on my storage unit.*watches LPL*I USED to have a Master Lock No.3 on my storage unit.
Keep watching LPL and you will opt for no lock on the storage.......hahaha....he has picked them all.
Hello there, I took up lock picking as a random hobby and I have watched some videos and practiced with picks. Now I am really interested in combo locks. But I love your videos and I hope to hoan my skills to be close to your skillset someday. I enjoy your work. Thanks for the videos.
One of the worst things about this is that my school uses these locks to lock up their laptops.
Hola Lawyer, tengo la grata satisfacción de ser un seguidor tuyo, vi casi todos tus videos eres realmente un maestro de maestros en la apertura de cerraduras, tienes una habilidad y destreza admirable. FELICIDADES y GRACIAS por todos tus videos, gracias a ellos aprendo cada día algo más. Te mando un abrazo sincero desde Sucre Bolivia.
It's called a Number 3 because the recommended picking age is 3 and under.
Number 1 would probably be for infants then
They are good for low security needs. My classroom has those locks to lock up all the wood cabinets used to store tools and welding supplies. It stops students from accidentally going into a cabinets they aren't supposed to.
So glad you're doing these videos. Now that i'm following you for years i'm over and over again shocked by how insecure locks are. Obviously almost any kid can open many of these instantly. I totally don't understand why a renowned company produces such crap. Maybe there's a kid around you can manage to show on camera opening locks like these, hoping to be an eye opener for some company .
Wow! Please do a LPL recommended lock series soon. I have a ton of these locks and was able rake and shake all my locks without issue. Didn't realize how easy it was after trying it myself.
My job locked up our $6,000 devices we use to check pain woth masterlocks due to them getting broken. Thanks to you I got a great laugh apon seeing that
LPL: "No security pins,"
Me: That's probably a good thing, otherwise beginners in lockpicking wouldn't know which lock to start on!
Had one of these on my oil tank, lost keys, watched this vid, I had it open in less than 2 mins, with ink pen clip and an old ground down key..... I used teflon for lube since the lock had been outside for nearly 2 years. Thanks for helping me.... one day I might find the key to it...
I’ve now placed my 1st Covert Companion order and ordered a few padlocks to pick including the favourite Master Lock 3👍
Alright, who gave Master Lock laurels?
No one. They gave them yannies.
@@GeneralNickles hehe
Thank you Harry.
Could not see clearly in the video, but are those ball bearings spring loaded? Without a solid stop behind them they should still be vulnerable to shimming and rap attacks.
Raked two locks open faster than the Turdbo Tax ad that ran before this video.
After a week and a half.. I just use these for recreational reasons now.. Keep my hands busy while im reading or watching something, pick, pop, lock, pick, pop, lock... Taking maybe 15 to 20 sec each time single pin picking it at this point... Really not good locks for security... But damn good for a.d.d and therapeutic purposes
An hour ago i recently just popped this mystery 6 pin lock i got a couple days ago (mystery to me, a relative found it scrapping one night, didnt have a key so gave it to me to use for more practice and experience, interchangeable american lock padlock series 3560? and looks like the locks been changed before so i dont know if it was the original or not inside it and turned out to be all standard pins anyways..) really loving this hobby and learning alot every day
This is the first one I’ve been able to pick open. I just did it last night, today I’m running to the hardware store for more locks.
I thought that the jokes about master lock were hyperbole, then i found an old master lock and was able to rake it open with homemade tools in around a minute
It took him longer to get the tools in than pick it
I bought some of these for my patio grill covers to hold them down. They work pretty good but I did not buy them for security.
Should've been "Now even stronger (physically)"
I half expected you to say that in fixing that, they made an even bigger weakness
Love your videos. So entertaining don’t forget if you already hadn’t told people about “cheap” lock pic sets I’m a starter bought something for like $30 came with tons of stuff. Everything broke in minutes. Lol I then ordered from you.
And here I can't even rake one open yet. 🤦 Granted I only started last week. But any tips are appreciated.
Stronger, Mr. LPL, not unpickable
Hi Harry, Thanks for showing, without your video most wouldn't have known about the redesigned locking system on The Master No.3 padlock - myself included. Kudos to Master for that. It does seem strange that the little brass Master 140 padlock contains spools ( made in China I'm sure ) and yet the much heavier No.3 has none. I'm led to believe Master's dial combination padlocks are now made in Mexico, and I guess many others are as well. If Master's Lockout padlocks can include security pins along with the 140, it doesn't seem much of a jump to include them in their other 4 pin locks. A complete retool to 5 pin, I'm sure, is out of the question. Only the Locksport Community give Master a hard time, the buying public are totally unaware of the weaknesses of a standard 4 pin core, no excuses ... but the truth none the less. Perhaps Master are moving in the right direction, first ball bearing locking, next some security pins maybe ......? Regards, Brian.
Brian Hignett yup... master locks product line doesn’t make sense as a cohesive whole... like a car company’s might. So many legacy products. They really need to streamline their offerings... though expensive, it would probably be cheaper in the long run, and result in better offerings.
But when they spend the money to redesign something and fail to move their products closer into alignment, then it enters the realm of poor management imo.
@@lockpickinglawyer Videos
I can't imagine security pins costing that much more to manufacture than plain ones. It boggles my mind why they don't use them in even the cheapest of lock models. What am I not understanding? Please comment.
They cost Pennies. Master sells millions of locks per year and 0.1 penny per lock is $1,000 a year which gives the CEO another nice vacation
Most braking and entertaining cutting is usually used.
There are lock guards and sleeves available to help getting to the lock more difficult. But yes, Master locks need to improve the inner mechanisms.
You are AMAZING! Masterlock needs to invest in serious security upgrades.
Seriously, there is no nicer way to put this... Master locks are pathetic. They're good for locking things worth about what the lock is.
Love the "picking locks while rocking out to AC/DC finger stance" btw. \m/
How are yours so solid? The core in mine wobbles around by about 1/8" when I apply tension
I just remembered what that tool you were asking me about was. It wasn't kwikset it was a miniaturized version of the schlage L series spanner wrench for tightening the multipart collar on the L series mortise cylinder. The normal one is double sided but that one was so compact I loved it.
Thanks for the information. If they really wanted to improve the whole lock, the core could use more than 4 pins, and like you said, security pins. The ball bearing locking is a nice improvement.
I have to imagine they know what they’re doing when they decide against a better core. Probably just a financial move.
It's because the overwhelming majority of criminals never even look at the core in the first place. Very few know how to pick, and even fewer have the tools to pick.
99% of the time they're going to be using a destructive attack and Master Lock knows it. That's why their security ratings are based entirely on physical robustness.
I just got a Southord PXS-14 pick set delivered today. First time trying to pick. I have a Master Lock no 3.
At first I was able to open the lock with the city rake twice and take it open once more.
Since then, no dice after over an hour. I obviously need lots of practice. But could I have broken the lock somehow so that I'm unable to pick out now? The core is really loose.
The key still works though.
Love your vids!
I purchased a No.3 recently along with the covert instruments Genesis set. Perhaps I don't fully understand how to do it or something, but I wasn't able to rake it. Not really having developed skills yet, I'm probably wrong, but it's at least possible there may be security pins in there. Still only a 4 pin lock though.
(I noted the packaging today is a bit different from in this video and donsn't carry the stickers seen in the video).
"Tough under fire"
Weak under everything else
Recently saw what I believe was a master lock 3 long shackle version with a visible bump by the keyway. It was in use so I didn’t investigate any further.
I bought a starters lockpick set, and 3 different master locks. The No. 3 is the only one I just can’t seem to get open. I have no idea why. Guess this means I’m not cut out for this hahah.
Just got my kit. Took me about 15 minutes on it but I felt so accomplished when I opened it
Also... It is worth mentioning that they make a range of locks.....and this is not the higher end of their security....pro series offers balls, laminated body, and a 5-6 pin core with spools and serrated pin.
These were the first training locks i got for my kids to go with their Genesis sets. My 12 year old can pop them in less than 10 seconds with the shallow hook.
@LockPickingLawyer Your number3 looks more like my number1. The number3 I have has a plastic covering and I’m finding is trickier for me to pick compared to when I pick the one similar to the one in this vid. I’m a just misinformed about what number is what?
finally it's good enough for my waist high chain link gate
I can't seem to get it 😅
Got the two rake picks in the covert companion, the ergo turning set for applying tension clockwise from the bottom of the keyhole opening, and idk what I'm missing, because I can't seem to get the no 3 key open 🤔
i think out of all of these videos, what i've taken away from it is "nothing will make you distrust the government and prepare for disaster scenarios like becoming a lawyer"
Toma tu like
I am currently picking the exact lock with your tools that i bought from your website!! it is that easy!!
We have these at work, and today I just had to try picking one for the fun of it. Using the tools on hand, an .050” and 1/16” Allen wrench, it took about three seconds to open. Wow.
I'll give Master Lock credit for addressing a major flaw in their lock design. And while it's harder to fit more pins into that sized lock, a couple security pins from their LOTO locks would go a long way.
It's better, but still not good.
Great review. People purchase master lock for the name unless they watch video they think there getting high security sense it's the brand there buying and they been around for decades. My opinion only.😎
Great review brother, would have liked to see them finally put some security pins in them.
Thanks...
I'm watching while picking a disc lock and another master lock #5.
Master got the ball bearing idea when they bought out American Lock and all of their patents in 2003. I got an older American H10 from the 1980s that has ball bearings.
So i know this may sound weird, but I've recently picked up this skill and your recommended set (Covert something, sorry, foggy brain and adhd) for survival training, home carpentry, repairing hand and arm dexterity, and cause my fiance threw a shoe at me for locking us out of our bedroom a month ago... and i want to know if this is a real thing:
I grew up with the Master of Unlocking wayyyy back in the days of good media, and one thing that always bugs me is "Locked with a SIMPLE lock."
So whomever is kind enough to humor me, is there a community approved "simple lock" category or is that just one of the many things the Japanese got wrong with media/ skillsets (say a trope like: Artistic License: Security?) It wouldn't be surprising, but one thing i learned is it's best to ask even the simplest questions cause they can help solidify educational fundamentals!
I had pick it twice, did work. Then try with the key two more time to be sure it is still working. Then i went for the third time and a pin seems to have jammed and the core is a little bit off. Try to open it with the key again but in vain… My question is, can a core fail by trying to pick it in a wrong manner or technique and if so, can i send it to you so you can confirm whatever happen? Thank you so much for you channel, it inspire me to do picking and it relax me because my hand shake a lot so i work on that.
If you ever reply and if you wanna look at how i pick, i have a playlist on my channel. @LockPickingLawyer thank you so much, you are an inspiration for me to start pickin, just began last month but i have watched hundreds of you videos before starting this hobby 😁 Thank you, and a have a nice day
The masses still purchase from Master simply because of the name even though the #3 can be compared to a snowball being “tough under fire”.
I’m just getting into this hobby and have managed to open this lock twice so far with a Dyno Kwick Pick. Still just learning, but this is pretty fun.
Hi!
I’m new to picking. I have a ML 3 and a Pertonson set of picks. I’ve been able to pick this lock with a city rake and a small hook. Lately I haven’t been able to pick it with either. I’ve watched your video and others. They all make it look so easy. Do you have any idea what my problem could be? Thanks.
This is the lock that every construction company uses to lock their tools in the job box
Hey, you know what... I'll give them credit for it. I think for a majority of use cases improving the locking mechanism was a major improvement. Seems like most crooks are going to come in with hammers and bolt cutters, not rakes or even padlock shims.
Everyone praises things like the ABUS titalium locks for being pick resistant, but personally I would never recommend most of them for real-world use because they use standard spring-loaded locking bars. Some, but not all, can be shimmed, and I doubt that many would stand up to a firm smack with a hammer.
LPL: MasterLock, your locks suck
MASTERLOCK: Our locks only suck with you
"And that one opened even faster." Well yeah, look at the bitting on that fuckin' key! All 4 pins right in a row, you could stick anything in there and just lift the pins a bit and twist and it's open.
Just because it has ball bearings, perhaps only a minor improvement -- what is the actuator made out of that holds those ball bearings in place -- Plastic? Zinc? wonder what the pull strength is? Perhaps "don't pull to hard"? {so as to not crush the actuator; should be in the disclaimer warning) -- maybe even a strong shim could collapse the actuator? (it's only a Master) -- SO LPL, let's see you give it a pull test, eh?
Ken Nixon Fair point... smart money says its zinc. Testing and tear down is on my to do list. 👍
@@lockpickinglawyer A quick "disassembly" revealed a zinc cast actuator -- Still wonder if a shackle "pull strength test" would actually show improvement over the previous design? I would hope it would (but no "cheating" with torch to melt the zinc actuator, but why bother when you can rake it open in a second or two) -- added note; ball bearings are steel at 6.27 mm dia -- I was going to replace them with 6 mm plastic air soft BB's to make it more secure, wonder why Master didn't think of that?
Ken Nixon I’ve done some strength testing with the Ramset and my hydraulic press. On 6 locks, I had 3 broken shackles and 3 with no apparent damage. I suspect a deformed actuator is the culprit, but I haven’t gotten around to the autopsies yet.
LockPickingLawyer -- Interesting -- looking forward to your autopsies
I actually cannot get my mind off this one. Tried raking, rocking, single pin picks, idk why i can't seem to figure this one out
I saw this in the hardware store.....I looked at the key first to see if it was changed to five pins....but no.
Then i looked at the keyway and you will also notice the bottom plate looks like a anti drill plate as it is definitely different from the old models.
Glad they use balls now lol.
Looks like they spent 20% of the budget and then said screw it! :/
More likely they spent 120% of the budget just on the ball bearings
You can bet your ass that some of that budget went to booze so they could drink enough to temporarily forget they worked for Master Lock Company.
Master Lock spends more money on it's packaging than on the actual product.
@@patmarcy1210 BS! They spent 20 cents on every package and 25 cents on the lock!!! : D
@@scootergeorge9576 That's still too much for a paperweight!
Bro I’m struggling with even raking this shitty of a lock, I have a few number 3’s in my possession and idk if it’s the quality of my lockpicks or what but I can’t get these things open
So I'm just curious is the 33 thumbs down from Masterlock share holders? Hahahaha really how could you thumbsdown this genius? Thank you Sir, you re-lit a hobby that I forgot was so challenging and rewarding..
I just got into picking because of LPL and Locknub, I always wanted to do it, and I'm hooked now, I started with the MPXS-8 from Southord, and I just received 4 combs sparrows set and extra picks from Southord, I have already outgrown my creeper case in the last 2 mounts I'm getting the comp case from sparrows next, I have a #3 for 30 years and it's so worn out, it won't let me pick it open, the key still works, but picking it drives me crazy, I've done it a few times, I've spent a few hours so far, the core walks all over the place, but it is just flat-out worn out, Update, I have success with top of the keyway attack, now I can open it in less than 10 seconds every time, so satisfying to know I could get it right, seems you can't pick it if you don't try
That sucks so bad. I purchased 8 of these for my air tight waterproof cases
Ah, wonderful.. This is the lock on both of my storage units.
Very nice video as always, Sir!
Master Lock is Master Lock, no matter how 'stronger' they become. LOL!
i just picked a small digital safe with a bobby pin and a screwdriver after watching this. thanks!
I picked some of these up to learn picking, and i got them open quicker than LPL did.
I’m proud to say this is the first lock I can open faster that lpl
Hi there, help! Live in LV locked our electric bikes can’t find key. Really hoping to take bikes out today. Lock is chateau c970 hardened.
Would you mind please recommending some locks that one might use on a locker or on luggage when traveling outside of the United States. One that cannot be shimmed or raked open easily. Thank you.
Hey there! I was given 4 of the older style NO 3's with no keys. I am a brand new picker so started with city rake to try to open them. After I got to the point where I was opening consistently with the city rake I decided to try single pin picking. I wasn't having luck until the pick seemed to go further back then I expected. Since then I discovered I can open all 4 by putting the pick all the was back in pushing up.... Why would this be? Really bad biting on locks keyed alike? or?