I guess this would technically go under “Loot” of LLL.
So, a lot of you may have seen designs for proper padlock shim, with the 1x3" strip with the ‘m’ shape cut into it. Simple enough, but it took too long for me, and I could never get the freaking M shape down consistently. So I decided I would make a “better homemade padlock shim.” Better not in terms of the basic principles behind it, but in terms of make, use, and repeatability.
Honestly, I’m sure someone has thought of this before, but I haven’t seen another variety yet.
So take a look.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2065081&l=12a55&id=3108250
Advantages: Extremely easy to make, and the spike portion is easier to design/cut. Also, can make more with 1 soda/beer can than traditional, because it’s 1/2 the size; which is imporant because shims can generally only be used once, so if you fuck up the first time, you can just try again and again.
Disadvantages: Need needlenose pliers, due to lack of structural integrity around tail portion.
(although you can use pliers to help regardless of design)
For me-
Making traditional shim with full can sheet- 1-2 minutes
Making my shim with full can sheet- 20-30 seconds
Success rate on basic Master padlock:
Traditional- ~30%, usually due to ripping of oft-too wide spike
Mine- ~80%
So let me know if you’re going to try it out.
(Disclaimers:
It’s extremely difficult to shim any Master padlock past their level 2s, though most of you will never see a Master lock that secure in your everyday lives.
If the shim starts to rip heavily around the lock opening, discard and try again. Use those pliers gently.
)
And here’s my video of picking their key padlocks in about 3 seconds:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naWwsVT43eA
Don’t you feel safe leaving your shit in lockers now?