While researching vintage padlocks, I ran across some ancient Roman padlocks that were quite interesting,and decided to try and duplicate them. The locking mechanisms are quite simple,once I saw them. The actual locking part is either one or two reed type metal spring leafs that spread apart keeping the lock from opening.The keys are either a loop on a handle that reaches in and compress the reed so that they may be slide out through the opening. If the reeds are arranged on the sides of the hasp then a “U” shaped key is made to compress them together. If the reed springs are on the top and bottom of the hasp the it is an “O” square box shape to compress the reed springs Down from the top, and up from the bottom.
On this one the upper loop slides out over a fixed stub.
Herb
