#lockpicking tools

Locksmithing can often be complicated, requiring a lot of equipment and expertise to handle any problem a customer may have. However, if you need a temporary fix for being locked out or losing your key, there are a few simple tools you can keep on hand.

Before using a lockpick, it’s essential to have a tension wrench. This tool is used alongside any pick you choose, holding the pins in place as you work through them.

The Triangle Pick

The triangle pick is the most versatile kind of pick and can be used in a variety of ways. It’s also one of the best choices if you’re only going to pick one kind of lockpick.

Rake Pick

The other essential lockpick that can be used to tackle a variety of jobs is the rake pick. This pick works by raking all the pins at once to push them above the the sheer line. At the same time, the tension rod turns the plug, and some or all of the pins fall into the correct position after removing the pick.

Hook Pick

The hook pick is what people usually think of when they think of a lockpick. It’s the most basic kind of pick, and works by lifting individual pins into the correct position one at a time.

Wafer Pick

A wafer pick, as the name suggests, is designed to open wafer locks. Although you don’t necessarily need a pick specifically designed for this type of a lock, it will make your life a little easier.

Round Pick

This pick looks how you would expect it to look- round at the end, in either the shape of a full or half circle. It is another pick that can be used to open wafer locks, and is handy to have in your arsenal.

The Skeleton Key

The skeleton key is also known as the warded picks, as these picks are designed to tackle warded locks. Warded locks have simpler design than pin locks, and employ wards to allow or deny access based on the shape of the key. The skeleton key is stripped down to the essential part of a warded key, the very end, allowing for easier manipulation and less chance of the key being denied.