My Contractors License

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Okay, what answer are they looking for then? I would write a little note to them when you turn in the test to let them know they made a boo boo. I know the TKS model E cuff keys look like the paper towel dispenser keys but not identical.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

From an old Taylor key blank cataloge.

From back when Taylor used to offer an assortment of handcuff keys.

Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Hi.

Trying to explain this key to them would be like telling Obama to curb his spending habits.
Steve, I am familiar with the Taylor knock-offs, but this was an original key as it had the decorative curvy side (finials?) that are like aerodynamic accoutrements. The Taylor key is not as fancy.

I scored a 100% on the test!


mark
O--O

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Just below the head of the key on either side where it joins the shaft.

Congrats on your winning grade.

Steve Santini

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Thank you Steve,

I studied hard for it. Now I can construct walk in vaults, legally.
Shall I challenge you to escape from one of them?

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

If memory serves, such vaults are fitted with a "Holy shit get me outta here!" lever on the inside of the door to free potentially trapped bank employees.

But, it is still a cool idea!

Cheers, Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

If I fail to get out, you can have a new episode on "Pawn Stars" where they appraise the shackled and mummified remains of an escape artist who expired in a bank vault.

LOL, Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Yes, I realize this....but I would flip the door 180 degrees around for you!

mark
O--O

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Accomodating of you. LOL!

Cheers, Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

........And have a timed release NO2 bottle mounted inside so you either escape or laugh yourself to death!


mark
O--O

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Talked me into it Mark.

Compared to my other escapes, this would be by far the most pleasant demise!

Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

The chemist in me has to reply. If you are going to die laughing please use a gas cylinder of N2O, not NO2.

NO2 is a highly toxic and reactive reddish brown gas, it can be used to make nitric acid.

N2O is a colorless somewhat pleasant smelling gas used as a anesthetic (laughing gas).

Joe

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Hi Joe,
I stand corrected. Good thing my test did not contain HazMat questions!
The escape challenge seems to have been elevated to a real live or die situation!

Happy Newe Year to you!
I hope you have managed to keep yourself warm and dry!

mark
O--O

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

And there I was thinking I would finally face a pleasurable death doing my thing.

Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Ummm Steve, the lever you talk about is used on what we call record or document vaults and typically does not contain currency. The only lever on cash vaults and safe deposit is the one on the timelocks and only deactivates them as you hold the lever typically. Someone on the outside has to dial the combination in order to open the door. Some vaults do offer access to the bolt works and combination lock but not something you can count on and you need tools of some sort to effect opening. All this differs on manufacture and particular options they choose when the door was installed.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

As a locksmith and an escapist who has gotten out of my fair share of safes and vaults over the years I do know that many modern bank vaults DO have a release lever inside to free any potentially trapped employees.

And, as employees could only be trapped inside a vault after being made to enter one and held there during the commision of a robbery, during regular business hours, when the time lock is NOT engaged, this makes perfect sense.

Steve Santini

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Steve I suggest you rethink what you have said carefully as I am a locksmith and master timelock technician. I have worked on several thousand vaults made by Herring Hall Marvin, Mosler, Diebold, LeFebure, York, Hamilton, American Vault, Kumahira, Security Corp. to name a few.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

I have seen these things.

And Mark, who is also a locksmith, seemed to agree with what I said in an above post.

Of course, I am aware that vault manufacturers do make special order vaults to costomer specs and many of these will have differing interior works to suit different needs, requirements, etc.

Please note, I did not say all vaults had such a device, just that some in fact do.

While I worked as locksmith for a number of rims over the years, I was not a vault lock technician. I did work on certain safes but my work with these was only lmited to some manipulation, combo resets, and drilling open.

And then, of course, I have also broken out of a number in my time.

But, you being a vault tech would obviously have seen and worked on more models than I.

Steve

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

nice to see that Santini can make a mistake

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

No "mistake."

It is not a "mistake" as I have seen the vaults of which I speak and they do exist.

What I DID say was that Dorson obviously has more experience in this area and has seen more models than I.

Models that are obviously different in form and function.

A "mistake" would have been to make the broad and wide sweeping claim that ALL vaults work the way I have seen some work and this I did not do.

Sorry to disappoint you.

Steve Santini

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

I thought I made a mistake once, but I was wrong.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

I thought I was wrong once but I was just mistaken.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Thankyou, I was wrong and mistaken.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Yore speling of "thankyou" was anothor missteak

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Thanks, I guess I was wrong twice.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Two wrongs don't make a right...


.. but three lefts does.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Perhaps we should try to right all the wrongs in the world by admitting our mistakes.

But that probably won't work because if I admit I make mistakes that means I don't know right from wrong.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Some years back an escape artist did a safe escape on TV and it was horrible. It was a safe just large enough to get into and had a release handle in it which made no sense. It was not a walk in vault. On top of that you could see the handle.
I think the show was Carson if my memory is correct. At the end of the show when they were running the credits it showed people playing with the handle so all could see.
If this vault escape was done for the press it may not fly. A good escape is from an item that can be inspected Like a safe that has no release handle and that can be dangerous for many reasons.
Relocking devices that could go off when you start to take the lock apart for instance. I would be concerned if the press was there and I think most people realize that many vaults have release handles.
Years ago Randi almost died in a safe. I don't say that to put him down. Things like that add to the legend and reality of the danger. I think of this and I am a safe expert, retired.
Randi is brilliant and he almost bought the farm.
The locksmith had to drill an air hole in. Was this real or a set up? I don't know but the press said something that never made sense. They said Randi used up his air lighting matches to see.
Randi knows all to well that you go into a safe with a penlight not matches. Norm

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Hi Norman:

You were thinking of Chris Chalen, on the old Tom Snyder's "Tomorrow Show"...a few years prior to Chris's own national TV Special.

My understanding is that the safe used was "supplied" by Hills Bros Safe & Lock, here in So. Calif.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Hi Joe,
Yes I was thinking of Chris and I want to say I like Chris and his contributions to the art but the safe escape did not go well But we all have those days. I was just suprised he tried to get away with that on national TV
The problem with film is we can't take it back.
When your just doing your act on stage with no film if it dosn't go well you just move on with the next show.
Now it is getting worse with instant film and information and exposures of magic everywhere.
I am actually glad I am not on the road. The old days must have been something. Escape artist travelling with boards with two or three hundred handcuffs to display.

Norm

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Interesting comments about a vault/safe escape... You are correct about relockers and other devices to prevent unauthorized entry. Some can be quite complicated but the key is access to the bolt works. This thing about having to drill an air hole raises some red flags for me. Underwriters Laboratories has ratings on such things like on safes a typical rating could be TL-15 or TL-30. For example, a TL-15 rating means the safe has been tested for a net working time of 15 minutes using high speed drills, saws and other sophisticated penetrating equipment. And this is done under the best of conditions and equipment. I have had to drill safes with hardplate including carbide matrix requiring special diamond bits. Air would be a critical thing and drilling a hole in an emergency with a properly built and rated safe/vault sounds questionable.

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

Yes I had to deal with hard plate myself. A few times on the right safe we drilled from the back in line with the combo lock and then went in with a special made long screw driver and removed the tumblers.
I remember a market we use to service had a safe side ways in the front window. They thought they were safe with it there. These store kept thousands of dollars around. Someone hid on the side if the safe. They drilled a hole for their light and a larger one to put some type of grabber in and scoop out thousands.
The detective said, "a bunch of flunkies right." I thought no.
After all they got all the money, knew where to drill and were gone.
I think the botton line is before you get in any safe you got to know whats in it. Even if a factory did not install a relocking device it dosn't mean a local locksmith didn't.
So I think if your going to do a safe escape and are not a safe man or Women, you should get one as a guide.
As for the Randi affair, I believe there is more to the story but I don't know what it is.
Safe escapes are great but they can be as dangerous as any escape out there. Also an artist must find out if they can stand being in a safe. It would be horrible to just go do it without a test and panic. Norm

Hi all,
I have been studying up for my California Contractors License, for which I am about to take my test for, once I finish this posting.
In the Peoples Republic of California, one needs this license to work on any job that exceeds $500. I have always had one but I need to add a classification to it as I am getting more involved with safes and vaults.
The test is pretty dificult and asks many many questions about handicap entrances, fire exit specs and devices, ladder safety, first aid, and lock and safe equipment.
So how does this post relate to the handcuff collecting world? I will tell you!
One one of the questions in my study guide, they asked about key identification.
One particular key was shown and the question was, what does it fit?
Unfortunately, the state has applied the wrong answer to the question...but in a perfect line drawing, the key depicted was identified by myself as that of a Mattatuck cuff.
Of all the barrel keys in the world, I found it odd that they would even have a picture of a Mattatuck key.
I bet that 99% of all locksmiths that took the test, would not know that the answer to the question is a cuff key.

mark
O--O

Click to expand...

As for the Randi affair, I believe there is more to the story but I don't know what it is.

That's pretty safe to say. I think it's a safe bet to say, if there's a showman involved, there is always more to the story than meets the eye. These guys are in the business of looking good and not dying.