American US padlock with double sided keys

[PhoneMan]

Here is another flea market find I picked up today for $15:


Here's the back and keys:


inside the shackle hole there is a screw, upon removing it, I thought the plug would come out when in the unlocked position. It doesn't, just an empty looking hole. Is the plug removable?


still a cool lock!

[DR2]

Yes, I am currently fighting with four of them as a side project. Turn the key to approximately 30 degrees and wack the body with a rubber mallet to drive the retaining pin into the screw hole at the bottom of the shackle hole and either the core will come out easy or you will have to grapple with it. I have not seen one come out easy yet and have not seen one that was exactly 30 degrees on the plug turning, either. But that is where you have to start and pound on the thing.

[PhoneMan]

That worked! opened right up, and allowed me to clean it a bit. Thanks for the info.

[DR2]

They're beautiful locks!

[MBI]

I'm not sure I've ever seen one of those that looked brand new before.

[Oldfast]

....Turn the key to approximately 30 degrees and wack the body with a rubber mallet to drive the retaining pin into the screw hole at the bottom of the shackle hole....

+1 on using a hammer versus beating the shit outta your desk (done my fair share of that) lol

I wrap the lock body with a thin rubber piece and use a plastic hammer. No damage done.
Dangle the lock in one hand, holding it by the shackle, and strike side of body with hammer.
You want to strike the side of the lock that has the shackle hole containing the retaining pin.

Force is delivered in a MUCH more productive manner in this way rather than 'lock versus table top'.
I normally find it makes quick work of these, usually requiring only 2-3 sharp blows to free up the pin.

Nice find. I agree with MBI.... it looks to be in great condition.

[PhoneMan]

Yes it is in awesome shape! Being it says US on it, I'm guessing military most likely. and special purpose for one of these locks, or just for anything needing a medium security padlock?