Brinks 161-40001

Difficulty Notes

Yellow belt, directly comparable to the Master Lock 140. BosnianBill specifically calls out this model as one of the simplest 4-pin locks containing spools — alongside the Master Lock 140. Slightly better quality and tighter tolerances than the 140.

Picking Notes

Contains one standard pin and three spool pins. SPP with light tension — same approach as the Master Lock 140 but the feedback is slightly different due to better manufacturing tolerances. Raking may not work due to the spools. Good lock for learning to coordinate SPP with variable tension.

Tension Tips

BOK tension with light pressure. The tighter tolerances compared to Master Lock mean tension control matters more — too heavy and you'll overset the spools.

False Set Behavior

Expect false sets from the spool pins. Similar feel to the Master Lock 140 but slightly more defined feedback due to better tolerances.

Bitting Variance

The 161 series brass padlocks are generally consistent — 1 standard + 3 spools is the typical configuration. Uses M1 key blank.

Gutting Notes

Can be gutted with a follower. Brass body comes apart cleanly. Pin chambers have better tolerances than the Master Lock 140.

Recommended Tools

• Peterson Hook 1 in 0.025
• Peterson Pry Bar (BOK tension)
• Any standard short hook in 0.025

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