How To Pick a Lock: The Beginner’s Guide

    As we embark on this tutorial, it's imperative to preface it with a stern disclaimer: The art of lock picking, while a fascinating endeavor, carries significant responsibility. Hence, it's imperative to clarify that the following guide serves purely as a hobbyist's guide; never attempt to pick locks without proper authorization.

     With that caveat out of the way, let's dive into the realm of lock picking – particularly, for those who are just starting out and eager to explore the world of lock picking kits!

    Lock picking is not only a crucial skill for anyone keen on bolstering their security knowledge but also a captivating pastime. If you thrive on puzzles that continually push your boundaries, this hobby is undoubtedly for you.

    Our guide will equip you with the fundamentals of lock picking, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive lock picking kit, its components, and how they interplay. Additionally, we'll share some invaluable tips to set you on the right path.

    Ready to embark on this thrilling journey and potentially never have to rely on a locksmith again? Let's commence.

 SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR HOBBY LOCK PICKING

   

    Typically, we arrange the individual tools and supplies essential for our tutorials, but acknowledging the potential expense of lockpicking tools, we've opted to showcase one of the most cost-effective beginner lock pick sets available on the market. This set closely resembles the one included in our New Hobby Box lock pick kit and is precisely what we're utilizing in this tutorial.

    Our supplies were sourced from various vendors and procured at wholesale prices which might not be feasible for everyone, hence the impracticality of listing each item individually.

    Granted, there's an abundance of Amazon lockpicking tools and advanced sets that can suffice, yet they often command a significantly higher price tag than our suggested alternative. And for the record, an advanced lock pick set of premium quality will easily cost above $75.  If you’re up for spending that kind of c lf you're willing to invest that amount, then by all means, explore those advanced options. However if you're looking to stay within a budget, our recommendation is the more prudent choice.

    As this tutorial caters to novices, we endeavored to strike a balance between affordability and the precision tools we endorse.

    We stumbled upon an excellent option for the core lock-picking component – it’s a 15 piece lock picking set that’s created for beginners. This hobbyist lock-picking kit surpasses our own tools in terms of variety, yet it's more budget friendly, offering a dual advantage.

    The recommended kit boasts one see-through padlock (so you can discern the lock's inner mechanisms and visualize the movement of your pick within)

    It also encompasses a wide variety of 12 picks, empowering you to experiment with various lock types or push your limits by tackling the clear padlock with alternative picks or rakes.

    And lastly, it also includes a set of tension wrenches – whose significance will become evident as you progress. These components are indispensable to your endeavors.

WHAT EACH LOCK PICKING TOOL DOES

    A set of lock picking tools may encompass a range of items, yet each serves a distinct and specialized function. While some of these tools can find uses beyond lock picking, their primary design is exclusively tailored for this purpose. Fundamentally, you will encounter at least two essential tools: a tension wrench and a pick Both are indispensable components in the art of lock picking.

Tension Wrenches Explained

    The cornerstone tool within any lock picking set is the tension wrench, which serves the vital role of applying rotational force to the lock mechanism. This tool is inserted into the lock and utilized to stabilize the plug, enabling the insertion of the pick. The design of tension wrenches varies, with some tailored to fit specific lock types while others offer a more versatile, universal fit.

Among the widely used types of tension wrenches, we find:

⦁ Straight tension wrench

 – The most elementary variety, the straight tension wrench comprises a basic L-shaped metal structure. lt's inserted at the base of the key way and functions to exert rotation a force onto the lock plug.

 ⦁ Offset tension wrench 

–Akin to the straight version, the offset tension wrench also assumes an L-shape, albeit with a slight deviation in its configuration. This subtle offset enhances precision when applying torque to the plug.

⦁ Twist tension wrench

 – Resembling the straight wrench, the twist tension wrench incorporates a twisted handle. This design feature enables the application of greater torque to the lock plug.

 ⦁ Double-sided tension wrench

 –As its name implies, this versatile tool boasts functionality on both sides of its handle, offering dual-purpose capabilities.

Picks and Rakes Explained

    The second most frequently encountered tool is the pick, which encompasses hooks and rakes, and serves the purpose of manipulating the individual pins located within the lock. This tool comes in a myriad of varieties, each tailored to address a distinct challenge or lock configuration.

 ⦁ Small hook –

     A small hook is designed to lift the pins up one at a time.

 ⦁ Large hook – 

    Same concept as small hook, but gives a larger reach and is ideal for a larger tumbler lock.

⦁ Single ball – 

    The ball pick is used in locks that have a disc or wafer, which can be moved regardless of its direction.

 ⦁ Double ball – 

    Same concept as a single ball – grab this tool when the single ball isn’t doing the trick

 ⦁ Small half diamond – 

    The small half diamond pick is used for picking up pins with little variation. If you have big lengths, then go ahead and use the hook!

 

RAKES

    Rakes belong to the family of pick tools and are primarily employed to expedite the process of unlocking a lock through manipulation. As seen in the image above, they are the second item from the left. lt's important to note that while they may not always guarantee immediate success, they are our go-to tools when speed is of essence or when dealing with particularly intricate locks.

⦁ Snake (C rake) –

 Rakes serve as optimal hooks for situations where you aim to manipulate multiple pins in succession. Their design ensures uniform movement and can withstand vigorous shaking or picking with heightened tension, thereby providing sufficient resistance to prevent your tool from slipping away unexpectedly!

 ⦁ Snake (W rake) – 

    The same idea as the C rake, but just even more jagged edges applied.

    Alright, to use a lock picking set proficiently, a solid understanding of lock mechanisms is crucial

 HOW LOCKS AND PICKS WOR

    When embarking on my journey to learn lockpicking, this animated image was incredibly insightful, helping me grasp the fundamentals of how a lock operates, particularly in conjunction with a key. However, it quickly became apparent that there are intricate details and complexities beyond this initial understanding, largely attributed to the vast array of lock types that exist,

Different Types of Locks

So many types of locks out there – but these are a few that you encounter daily.

 ⦁ Pin cylinder locks –

The most prevalent type of lock, these employ pins of differing lengths to verify the authenticity of the key being inserted. (This specific type of lock serves as the focal point of this tutorial.)

 ⦁ Lever locks –

Less frequently encountered than pin tumbler locks, lever locks might be found in some older structures. They function by requiring a series of levers to be lifted to precise heights in order for the lock's plug to rotate.

 ⦁ Wafer locks –

Akin to pin tumbler locks, wafer locks differ in that they utilize wafers, which are flat disks, instead of pins. These wafers must be positioned correctly for the lock's plug to turn.

How a Key Opens a Lock

    The shape of a key is dictated by the shape of all the pins in the lock. To open a lock, all you need to do is insert a key that has the same shape as the pins. I know, crazy, right? (That’s sarcasm)

    When the right key is used to turn the lock, the plug (holding the pins) rotates. This enables the driver pins to settle into the shear line, aligning with the keyway, permitting the plug to rotate and unlocking the lock.

    It's not as simple as just pushing all pins halfway up. Just like keys have varying heights, the pins also have different points where they can be pushed up to unlock the lock.

    When picking a lock you are essentially guessing the height of each pin until it clicks into place as shown below.

 How a Lock Opens and Closes

    The above section covers how a lock is opened with the correct key, but how does the lock close? That’s where the spring comes in.

    When the plug is rotated, the driver pins fall into the shear line and align with the keyway. This allows the plug to rotate.

    When the plug is rotated, the cam on the back of the plug pushes on the tailpiece, which in turn pushes on the latch bolt and opens the door.

SECURITY FEATURES OF LOCKS

    To make lock picking more difficult, locksmiths have come up with a variety of security features that can be added to locks.

Some of these features include:

⦁ Pins with spools or serrated pins

 ⦁ Mushroom pins

 ⦁ Security pins

 ⦁ Bitted keys

⦁ Key control

    With practice locks, you can learn how to pick any type of lock, no matter how complex the security features may be.

 "Essential Steps for Lock Picking with a Kit"

Gather Your Tools:

    Start by assembling your lock picking kit, which typically includes tension tools, various pick shapes, and maybe a handle or torque wrench.

Identify the Lock Type:

    Look at the lock to determine its type (pin tumbler, wafer, etc.). For beginners, pin tumbler locks are the most common and easier to start with.

Apply Tension:

    Insert the tension tool into the keyhole and apply gentle but steady pressure in one direction (usually clockwise for most locks). This tension keeps the lock pins in place while you work.

Insert a Pick:

    Select a pick from your kit based on the lock's pin configuration. Gently insert it into the keyhole alongside the tension tool, avoiding direct contact with the tension tool.

Find the Binding Pin:

    Gently move the pick around, feeling for a pin that resists more than the others. This is the binding pin, which needs to be lifted to unlock the lock.

Lift the Binding Pin:

    Apply slight upward pressure on the binding pin with your pick while maintaining tension. You may need to adjust your tension slightly to find the right balance.

Repeat:

    Once the binding pin clicks up, release tension briefly to reset the pins, then reapply tension and find the next binding pin. Repeat this process until all pins are set.

Turn the Lock:

    When all pins are lifted, you should feel a noticeable decrease in resistance. At this point, turn the tension tool smoothly to unlock the lock.

Practice Makes Perfect：

    Remember, lock picking is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Be patient and consistent in your approach.

TIPS FOR HOW TO PICK A LOCK

    Unlocking principle: ‌the key to unlocking is to operate the lock core, ‌by using special tools or skills, ‌makes the pin and spring in the lock core move to the appropriate position, ‌so that the lock open. ‌This process may involve applying appropriate pressure and rotation to the lock core, ‌and operating the internal pins and pins with tools such as a single hook, ‌ tension wrench and so on.

1. Apply the Right Amount of Pressure

    When beginning, applying just the right pressure is crucial. Excessive pressure can dislodge the pins, hindering lock opening. A gentle yet firm touch is essential when handling the pins. lt's a fine balance, but practice helps master it.

 2. Don’t Overuse the Tension Wrench

    This can also cause the pins to move out of place and make it difficult to open the lock. The tension wrench is key (no pun intended) in applying the right amount of pressure to the plug while you are picking the pins.

3. You May Be Using the Wrong Lock

    As a beginner, start with a simple pin tumbler lock, which is common and found in various places. Once you grasp the fundamentals, advance to more complex locks. lf you're having trouble, ensure you're not attempting an advanced lock prematurely.

 4. Use the Correct Tools

    To pick a lock, you'll need a tension wrench and pick set. While a paperclip or bobby pin might work in a dire situation for basic locks using the right tools is generally necessary.

5. Follow the Correct Sequence

    Make sure you insert the tension wrench into the lock and apply pressure before you use the pick to manipulate the pins. If you do not do this in the right order, it will be very difficult to open the lock – or impossible.

HOW TO PICK A LOCK AS A HOBBY

 1. Select the Lock You Want to Pick

    When learning to pick locks, ensure you have suitable tools, but as a beginner aiming for recreational practice, opt for the most accessible choice -typically, your own household locks. The transparent lock is ideal for beginners, offering a visual aid to comprehend pin movement, though mastery lies in sensing their behavior. Initiate with basic pin tumbler locks, which are ubiquitous and found in various applications, including the dictionary safe example we've utilized. Standard pin tumbler locks have two main parts: the plug and the key way.

    The plug is the part of the lock that you insert the key into, and the keyway is where you insert the tension wrench and pick.

2. Select Tension Wrench and Pick/Rake

    Bear in mind that your tension wrenches are L-shaped instruments utilized to exert force on the lock, whereas the pick set facilitates manipulation of the pins within.

    I recommend using the rake (wave-shaped pick pictured above) Although it may not be the most precise method, it simplifies the process for straightforward lock.

3. Insert Tension Wrench

    Having assembled your tools, delicately insert the tension wrench into the lock and apply a moderate amount of pressure, taking care not to overdo it as finding the ideal balance is crucial.

    Your objective is to stabilize the pins while utilizing the pick to manipulate them vertically ensuring they remain in position as you work

 4. Gently Insert Pick or Rake

    With the tension wrench in place, gently insert the pick into the keyway and feel around for the pins. The reason for this is that you want to avoid pushing the pins too hard because this can cause them to get stuck.

5. Move First Pin – Scrape Pins

    Upon locating the initial pin, gently maneuver it up and down using the pick. l favor a technique known as “scraping the pins,” which entails gently scraping the pins with the pick rather than forcibly pushing or pulling them. This method is particularly suited for a rake.

    Adopting this approach often yields immediate success with one or two pins without excessive effort. The telltale sign of a successfully engaged pin is a subtle click indicating it has settled into place – a favorable outcome.

   I have found that commencing with the rear pin and progressing towards the front consistently produces optimal results.

   Make sure you continue to apply pressure the whole time though so the pin does not fall back down!

 6. Repeat With Second Pin, and So On.

    Once you’ve found the first pin, use the pick to move on to the next one. That is, move further away from yourself since the first pin is closest to you.

    Repeat this process until all of the pins are in the correct position – aka clicked in place.

7. Turn Tension Wrench

     When all pins are correctly aligned, the torque applied by the tension wrench to the lock cylinder will rotate it open, marking your triumphant moment as a lockpicker!

    For those using transparent locks or any locks that allow visibility, try replicating the process with your eyes shut at a designated point to enhance your tactile skills

    As you progress, expand your practice to padlocks readily available at home, bedroom doors, or even the locked dictionary we provided.

    With perseverance and practice, you'll swiftly develop proficiency in lockpicking. Here are a few tips and reminders to keep in mind along your journey.