I have a cupboard my in-laws brought back from France in the 60's (the
> piece may actually have been made in Germany, but no one knows for
> sure). Of course, the key to the drop-down shelf was lost during a
> move, and, although I have purchased about a hundred old barrel keys,
> I've been unable to get the lock open.
>
> Some keys move an internal lever 1/4 turn, but then is interrupted
> before completing the last 1/4 turn.
>
> I need some good instructions for impressioning a key for this lock. I
> received a number of blanks among the keys I bought, so I have something
> to work with. I have read a number of articles on how to do this for
> regular pin locks, but have been unable to find anything on barrel-keyed
> furniture locks.
>
> TIA for your help.
>
> Regards,
> Allan.
STOP!!!!
Do NOT ATTEMPT THIS YOURSELF!!!!
This type of work requires the skills of a trained locksmith and seeing as you do not know the magic incantation to make this work you will only cause more harm than good.
Why do you expect locksmiths to reveal their *secrets* to you? Do you think Doug Henning will tell you how he makes things disappear? have you ever smoked a blank?
That being said, you might want to ask over in rec.woodworking because the true crafts-people that hang out there are a hell of a lot friendlier than the nasty sourball locksmiths over in alt.locksmithing.
Of course cabinet making and woodworking isn't a dying skill/art like locksmithing is.
Good luck!