Brass padlocks

ok pretty keen to get at the brass in those banged up padlocks you find sometimes minus the steel shackles. Anyone got any ideas for a time saving way to separate the steel and the brass on padlocks preferably without the keys? Can't see anything too relevant on YouTube. Not sure if anyone has posted on this before?

For the little bit of gain you will get out if it, you are better off cutting the steel shanks off and selling the rest as dirty brass. Your gain would be at best ten to fifteen cents (US) per lock. If it takes you twenty minutes (fastest probable time), is that extra dime worth the time? Not to me, I can use that time to strip copper wire for a better return.

When all else fails, a trusty hammer may do the job.

The hammer of the gods will drive our ships to new lands.....! (Led Zeppelin)

Lately with prices being what they are, I feel its better to turn some items in as dirty... get paid move on!