Lock Reference and Record Keeping

[HallisChalmers]

When I really started getting into picking, I decided to keep a record of locks that I've picked, the pick and method that I used and gauged their difficulty.

So I put together a quick template that I can use as an Excel spreadsheet. I'm posting an example that you guys can use as a template to creat your own.

As you can see I list the brand of lock, difficulty on a scale of 1 thru 10, the amount of pins, key bitting info, if it is a warded lock I list the discs, pick type (eg short hook, half-diamond, etc) and technique (SPP or raking, etc.)

I mainly use this for my personal reference, so any time I run into a similar type of lock, I have a basis from which I can start.

If you are good with Excel and doing spreadsheets, this is a piece of cake.

[Josh]

pretty good idea.

[Wozzlock]

That's a good idea, I should be doing that.

[Kai]

My short term memory is....a little shot. So something like this would really help. I find myself struggling with locks I know I've opened before, but can't remember what ended up working best.

Will probably add a tension wrench field too. I often find that choosing the right wrench is really the only thing keeping the lock from opening.

[uklockpicker]

great idea

[Jinglesanator]

I should do that, my keyboarding teacher made us learn excel and database! Pure torture. That's why they put games on igoogle!

[clodester]

This is a really nice idea, well put together. I have been trying to make/modify a windows access database to do something similar. Something to keep track of locks and picks i buy, where i got them from, price + p&p etc. Then lock details, make & model, pins and internals etc......

But the problem is I have no idea how to create such a database lol, couldnt even use a template. lol
I suck at access. anyway, yeah this looks simple and easy, so I think i am going to go down this road instead.

[HallisChalmers]

Clodester: I'll send you a blank template that you can use to start with. I sent you a PM.

[happykill]

This is an excellent idea. I think that I will be trying one of these out soon. Couldn't hurt and might actually pay off some where down the road. Thanks HC!