Projects: Challenge Locks

Overview

Challenge Locks are ...

Requirements

A "Challenge Lock" is defined as:

A commercially made lock and working key that includes a minimum of SIX modifications by the lock builder. Number of modifications must total or exceed SIX and may include any or all of the following:

• Turned, sculpted or shaped key pins
• Turned, sculpted or shaped driver pins
• Modification to the chambers by threading or counter-milling
• Improvised secondary locking mechanism
• Distinguishing mark engraved into the lock
• Hand cut key

Stipulations:

• Each "turned, sculpted or shaped" key pin counts as one modification. Pins must be shaped BY the builder, removing no less than 15% of the original material
• Each "turned, sculpted or shaped" driver pin counts as one modification. Pins must be shaped BY the builder, removing no less than 15% of the original material
• Pin-in-pin counts as one "turned, sculpted or shaped" pin per pin modified. Shaping a pin and also making it pin-in-pin does not count as two modifications
• Chamber threading counts as one "modification" regardless of the number of chambers augmented
• Chamber counter-milling counts as one "modification" regardless of the number of chambers augmented
• Each improvised secondary locking mechanism counts as one modification (latches, check pins, etc.)
• "Distinguishing mark" engraved into the lock counts as one modification (Simple scratches do not count. Engraving must be a symbol or mark of the maker)
• Hand cut key counts as one "modification". The key must be cut using hand tools from a blank, and must be a reasonable bitting. Locks made with 0-bitted, or minimally bitted keys do not count.

Voting Guidelines

• Tier 1 - Portfolio of 3 good CLs or a very high quality one-off
• Tier 2 - Portfolio of 5 well constructed CLs of high level craftsmanship including minimum 2 locks with unusual security features*. Artistic merit can help elevate a standard mid level CL to high level craftsmanship.
• Tier 3 - Portfolio of at least 10 well constructed CLs featuring minimum of 5 locks with unusual security features*. Thematic sets, high quality artistic merit, or an attempt at technical innovation can help elevate a mid-level quality CL to high level craftsmanship.
• Tier 4 - Relevant contribution to the pool of advanced high quality CLs (at least 20 CLs, many of which with advanced or unusual security features). Verifiable technical innovation in pin making or locking mechanisms. Significant contribution with mentoring the production and distribution of high quality challenge locks.
• Tier 5 - Significant portfolio of advanced challenge locks (at least 40 CLs, many of which with advanced or unusual security features). Recognized community wide as an expert challenge lock maker, innovator, mentor, promoter and distributor.
• Examples of unusual security features may include: pin-in-pin, rattlesnake-style pins, articulated pins, secondary locking mechanisms, addition of magnets, combined core modifications, sleeve making, split core, upper chamber work, among others.

Notable Examples

(most recent first)

• TypeRegal(?) - Challenge Locks (Tier 2)

See also

• Master's Projects