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Almont Re-Key



Upon removing the core, it was immediately apparent this lock had been "worked" on before. lol
The core looks to be original for the lock (I think).... so why the modifications? Anyone have a clue?
The tail piece has been filed on, and the chambers were deeply beveled with a drill bit or counter-sink.




Also at the tail end of the plug is what appears to be some sort of spiral rod.
After being twisted in, it was cut off, peened, then filed flush with the plug.
Again, I just can't see the purpose behind any of these modifications
and wouldn't mind hearing some of your thoughts. I'm curious!



At any rate.... I cleaned up the insides & loaded it with some new key pins to create a little 'nicer' bitting.
In addition to the user key, I've included a change key to easily remove the core without picking it.
Jeff! Just don't accidentally use this key or you'll end up in a similar situation to Bill's. LOL



The change key is nothing more than a duplicate of the user key, but with a notch cut out towards the tip --
allowing the plug to be turned the few extra degrees needed to align the slot in the plug with the driver pins.



* I respectfully request that fgarci03 & GWiens2001 disregard the following paragraph *
You can then insert the appropriately sized/shaped rod. As you push it in you'll feel it ride beneath the drivers.
Once in, press firmly while giving it a little wiggle just to be sure the tip of the rod has entered into a hole
at the very back. Then secure the tool before pulling the core. Here I used a mini bar clamp.
* Ok Filipe, Gordon... go ahead and give to me, lol..... have your fun *




You can now re-pin the core while the tool retains the driver pins in the lock.
Experience helps with these. This is the 2nd one I've worked with.
This time around went smoother than my first encounter.

This is the first of a PILE of locks I'll be working with for Sgt. Mossberg I'll tryn' post some of 'em as I go along.
Always a pleasure Jeff. And I LOVE the fact that you're never in a rush. Working at my leisure makes it enjoyable.
And it not only helps you out but I gain more experience! Plus I usually get a handful of free locks and blanks

After picking this one I completely mis-read the pins, creating a lot of doubt through the process.
Nevertheless, I just continued trying to trust my marks and eventually ended up with a key.
Notice it's NOT the Kwikset blank you sent, lol. Yes it does fit... but just can't bring myself to do it Jeff!
With a nice old lock like this... it's just wrong! Haha! Like oil and water - they just don't mix.

One failed attempt (key in the background). My second attempt (still in my key holder) was a success.
The blanks Jeff supplied, as well as all the ones I have, were 6-pin lengths... a little long for this lock.

So during my first attempt, I kept a very close eye on the tip of the blank. If the key is making contact with
anything toward the back of the lock it could interfere with the leverage needed to produce good marks.
However, this was NOT the case and only have myself to blame for trying to work too quickly, lol.
Nevertheless, I decided I might as well shorten up the key for my second attempt just in case.



I decided to use my old Belsaw this time in order to transfer the working key onto one of my own blanks.
Followed up with some more hand filing & sanding - and this classic Russwin is ready for the world again.



Key shortening: I've mentioned this before, but I always try my best to recreate the tip just as it originally was.
Take note of the exact height the point is at, along with how rounded it is. Both these factors play a big
part in aligning the key with the warding - this makes for quick and easy insertion.

I've no idea when I'll get around to a couple more of your locks friend - but I'll post em' as I go