Squire 440

Difficulty Notes

Relatively easy compared to other locks; can be learned as a first lever lock. The 660 model appears to have the strongest spring tension and is a 'real problem' for some users.

Sources (r/lockpicking):
- u/Skwiggledork (1pts): 'Squire 440 was my first lever lock... Both are relatively easy...'
- u/DavidthePicker (2pts): '...the 660 appears to have the strongest spring tension.'
- u/DavidthePicker (1pts): 'This Squire 660 is a real problem for me - only picked it the once!'
[confidence: medium]

Picking Notes

Float picking is noted as a technique for the Western (not Squire), but no specific technique is explicitly confirmed for the Squire 440 other than general lever lock mechanics.

Sources (r/lockpicking):
- u/Mugatu68 (2pts): '...Western does look like quite the fight with that "float picking" that seems...'
[confidence: low]

Tension Tips

The Squire 440 and 660 can sometimes require very heavy tension. It is recommended to use cheap, disposable tools (like specific homemade ones) for these models to avoid damaging expensive tension tools.

Sources (r/lockpicking):
- u/derpserf (6pts): 'They're specifically for squire 440 and 660 padlocks which can sometimes require very heavy tension, and I don't like using good tools on those.'
- u/DavidthePicker (2pts): '...the 660 appears to have the strongest spring tension.'
[confidence: high]

Bitting Variance

The Squire 440 has 4 levers. The Squire 550 is a brass version with internals exactly the same as the 440. The Squire 440 is often sold with cheap kits from AliExpress that may not fit. It is considered an 'Old English style' padlock with sprung loaded levers similar to a door mortice lock.

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