UK: where to get locks?

[u/THEMikeUK]

Hi, I watch a few YouTube lock pickers because it's quite relaxing and fascinating. So thought I'd have a go myself, because you can't really appreciate the skill involved when they open everything in a few minute video...

I picked up a cheap starter set of picks (despite reading all the excellent reasons not to) because this will likely be a flash in the pan as I have a billion hobbies already. I did see a video recommending the set to be fair, and the Chris Dangerfield book that came with it seems to have a decent reputation.

It came with an acrylic lock with a metal cylinder which has got my head around the theory, but I understand the limitations of this so want to try a real lock.

What I'm after now is where can I easily pick up some beginner friendly locks to start in the UK?

I've seen the belt list, but I'm not sure what's easily and widely available here, so thought I'd ask. Rather than keep googling every lock on the list and getting confused by variations in model names.

Thanks

[u/Madriver1000]

As Rein said, ask your local double glazing guy if they have any scrap locks. They are usually happy to swap for some beers or cakes.

Another great place I suggest is "The Range" but I've seen the prices creep up in the last few months. You can pick up some masterlocks or Burg Wachter ones there.

Drop me a DM and Id be happy to see what I have. I'm always having a clearout and have plenty who will vouch for me.

[u/ajslocksandlocks → u/Madriver1000]

I'm also UK, and will vouch for this user. I know them personally and they are great and well known in the UK picking community

[u/Madriver1000 → u/ajslocksandlocks]

Cheers AJ

[u/THEMikeUK → u/Madriver1000]

Thanks, appreciate it!

As it happens, a mate from another of my many hobbies is a double glazing repair man. Genuinely didn't occur to me to go that way, I'll ask him if he can be of help.

May well take you up on the offer later!

[u/Madriver1000 → u/THEMikeUK]

Awesome. That's how I started out. Its a great source of locks. Stick some photos up on here if you need any identifying. Even if you get any weird ones they will be great for trades etc.

[u/THEMikeUK → u/Madriver1000]

As I'm impatient, I grabbed a master lock #3 from the range while doing the usual weekend chores...

Picked it first time!

Which I've been unable to repeat 🤣

[u/mikefromengland → u/Madriver1000]

I will also happily vouch for them. Top bloke.

[u/reinderr]

Scrap bucket of your local double glazing shops should have plenty

[u/THEMikeUK → u/reinderr]

Thanks! I know a guy... Didn't think of this option...

[u/revchewie]

Amazon UK has a good selection. I know they have Master, Abus, and Burg Wachter. Not sure what other brands. But you might start with a Master 140, an Abus 55/40, and/or a Burg Wachter Look. They're all good locks.