Had a lock mechanism out of an older but very solid gun safe yesterday and thought a visit to a Locksmith may save some time and frustration.
Approached the counter and spoke to a very young bloke who I reckon was the Apprentice, he gave me a dumb look and retreated to the workshop with the lock and key to consult with someone.
Couple of minutes later returned with a bloke who I assume was qualified.
I explained that the lock consisted of eight rotating plates with which the key engaged, the last [lower] plate was misaligned and so the key would not fully insert.
The "Locksmith" looked at the lock with key partially inserted and said "But how does it work" !!!
Realising that I was not on a winner I thanked him for his time and began to leave the shop when he scoots around from behind the jump and tries to sell me a new safe, half the size of what I have and made from lighter gauge steel for only $800.00.
Back in the shed I made a leaf spring out of .005" shim brass and lock now works fine.
Do you reckon that makes me a Locksmith ?
Going on my experience in that shop I reckon it might.