I have this antique German elbow lock, probably made in the 1840's or 50's given that it has some cast parts on it instead of being entirely wrought, I plan to use when I build a cabin in the future. No key or keeper came with it. This takes a much larger key than a normal skeleton key lock so it needed to be custom made to fit the lock. The lock also has this odd shaft or tube that protrudes from one side that the key must go through, meaning it needs to fit that tube (the shaft of the key must be rounded over so no getting around some of the work here). I suppose that tube makes it more difficult for intruders to unlock it without a key.
I started with this piece of scrap 1/4" steel I had taking up space. I cut a notch at the end to form the end of the key with a hacksaw, and another cut to form the blade/bit of the key. Then I cut down to form the shaft of the key.
The rough form of the key. Lots of file work to round over the shaft, and give the key the complex shape needed to fit the lock.
I just need to do some finish filing to smooth it up. I'll drill a hole in the end and put in a ring to give it a handle so I don't need to use pliers to turn it.
Next I need to work out a keeper for the lock. The lever lifts a latch that works like a thumb latch, while the key works a deadbolt and a slide on the inside provides another bolt to lock it.
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Pictures are a little blurry, but I could see the champfering and finish work you did.
