Hi guys..

After reading everything there is on this forum about mini-locks I ended up getting one of the Onguard Pitbull mini locks. I never would have bought it because it is so bulky, but after seeing some pics of people breaking the plastic off I figured I'd give it a shot. REI had a 20% off promotion so I had it in my hands for $35 including tax; 30 minutes later the plastic covering was removed.

I've read that others had trouble getting that cover off, but I just grabbed both ends and twisted. They snapped off quite easily, no need for any tools. What I was left with was just black painted metal; which I sanded lightly, primed, and then painted with Rustomlium Professional something or other paint. Honestly the paint isn't hardening very well and I think I'll end up painting it again, but I still like how it came out.

Enjoy