Replacement key for 1924 Gibson A4 case?

[wsugai]

Any suggestions for finding a replacement key for my 1924 Gibson case (A4 snakehead)? Don't have the foggiest idea where to being looking! Thanks.

[allenhopkins]

Well, let's hope the case is currently unlocked, and you just want to be able to lock it.

Don't. A locked case deters no one -- except yourself, when you inevitably lose the key. Thieves steal case and all, then bust the lock and take out the instrument. The dealer I worked for 40 years ago said, "First thing you do is throw the key away."

Now, if the case is locked and you can't get in, that's another thing. Case lock mechanisms are pretty rudimentary, and usually can be jimmied with a small screwdriver or similar. If not, a quick trip to a locksmith may be needed. Then, you never lock it.

I have several cases where the keys sit in little plastic bags in their accessories compartments. Just haven't got around to throwing them out -- but I'd never lock an instrument case.

If you're concerned about keeping the A-4 and case "all original," I'd say that I've never seen a vintage instrument advertised as "all original except for missing case key." IMHO the case key is a futile gesture toward security, just waiting to be an unpleasant nuisance.

Like all opinions, worth the 0¢ it costs...

[MikeEdgerton]

I bought a Supertone banjo with original case. Key was in the pick pocket. It fit the 1919 Gibson case I needed a key for. Now that I have that key I comb through piles of old keys at flea markets and such. Found two thus far. Try sending a PM to Cafe member Loudloar with a picture of the case and the lock. He can probably identify what key you need.

[JFDilmando]

I have found them on eBay from time to time
You just have to keep a sharp eye and act when you see one

[Ray(T)]

Can someone post a photo so everyone can recognise one?

[JFDilmando]

you can check this older thread... https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/s...Loar-case-keys
the oval key shown in one of the posts is the shape that I have ususally associated with original keys to Loar cases

[Austin Bob]

I agree with what Allen said, but if you really want a key, bring it to your local locksmith and they can easily make one. I was a locksmith in my former life and we always considered that an easy task.

[Jeff Mando]

I would place a wanted to buy ad in the classifieds here. I'm guessing someone here might have one. NFI.

[Dave Hanson]

I totally fail to see the point in locking an instrument case, of course having the key to a genuine old Gibson case is very desirable.

Dave H

[MarkELynch]

This picture of the inner workings of the oval style lock on the typical instrument case was posted on the Musical Instrument Case Facebook page. The flat key post-war style lock is pictured but the text reads that the tubular key type works the same way. The link gives instructions for unlocking these without a key.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/vint...6279646801240/

[Denny Gies]

Find a local locksmith and talk with him/her about making you a key for the case.