Challenge lock with t pins recommendations

[LockpickingChef]

Hey everyone I'm new here. I've recently started making a few challenge locks. I've never dealt with t pins, so i figured i should make some and fill a lock with them. (No Dremel yet - just using a file and vice so they're pretty rugged) I'm trying a combination of t pins solo, stacked to make drunken spools, and with a (homemade) wafer between the spring and upside down pin. Just wondering if anyone has any recommendations for what would be most effective? Thanks everyone

[GWiens2001]

I'd recommend that if you are using the T pins with a wafer between the narrow end of the T and the spring, make sure that the T pin still reaches above the shear line when the pins are at rest or else you will make the easiest to pick lock you have ever seen. The wafer would be above the shear line, and the slight turning to tension the lock would cause that wafer to stop at the shear line, while the narrow T pin would fall below the shear line.

I tried it before, hence why I know.

Gordon

BTW - I'm a LockpickingFormerChef.

[LockpickingChef]

Thanks for the advice I'll remember that.