Blue Belt Projects: Challenge Locks
Overview
Blue Belt requests require that you have completed an advanced project, which may be a custom pinned "Challenge Lock" shared with another picker (Cutaways are not counted towards challenge locks). Preferably this lock will make it into circulation and introduce you to the fun of exchanging locks designed not for security but specifically to defeat picking.
If for some reason you are unable to fully engage with the larger community of exchange we still encourage you to gain the more in-depth knowledge of how locks function that comes from building your own.
Speak to a moderator for assistance if you're having trouble finding pickers you can send your lock to.
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.
Notable Examples
(most recent first)
- TypeRegal(?) - Challenge Locks (Tier 2)
