What is how to pick a lock?

Okay, here's some basic information about lock picking, presented in Markdown format with links as requested. Please remember that lock picking can be illegal depending on the jurisdiction and your intent. This information is for educational purposes only.


Lock picking is the art of opening a lock without the original key by manipulating its internal components. It involves understanding the mechanics of the lock and using specialized tools to mimic the key's action.

Basic Concepts:

  • Pin Tumbler Locks: Most common type of lock. Consists of a cylinder (plug) with several pins that must be aligned correctly for the lock to open. To understand the basics you need to learn about Pin%20Tumbler%20Lock%20Mechanics.
  • Tension Wrench: A tool used to apply slight rotational pressure to the cylinder, creating a binding effect on the pins. To master this tool you need to understand the basics of Tension%20Wrench%20Usage.
  • Pick: A thin, usually metal, tool used to individually manipulate the pins within the lock. Some common types are hook picks, diamond picks, and ball picks. To understand the details about the types of picks you need to learn about Pick%20Types%20and%20Applications.
  • Binding Order: The order in which the pins bind under tension. This is often not sequential and can vary each time you attempt to pick the lock. To understand this you need to learn about Binding%20Order%20Identification.

The Process:

  1. Apply Tension: Insert the tension wrench into the keyway and apply a very slight turning pressure in the direction you would normally turn the key.
  2. Insert Pick: Insert the pick into the keyway, carefully avoiding forcing it against any pins.
  3. Identify Binding Pin: Feel for the pin that is most resistant to being pushed up. This is the binding pin.
  4. Set the Pin: Use the pick to gently lift the binding pin until you feel or hear a slight click. This indicates the pin has been set at the shear line.
  5. Repeat: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each of the remaining pins, working from one that binds the most to the one that binds the least.
  6. Open: Once all pins are set, the cylinder should turn freely, opening the lock.

Important Considerations:

  • Practice: Lock picking requires a lot of practice. Start with simple locks and gradually move to more complex ones.
  • Feel: Developing a sense of feel for the movement of the pins is crucial.
  • Patience: Don't get discouraged if you don't succeed immediately. It takes time and patience to master lock picking.
  • Legality: Be aware of the legal implications of lock picking in your area. It is generally illegal to pick locks that you do not own or have permission to open. Always obey the law. To understand the legal details you need to learn about Lockpicking%20Legality.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. I am not responsible for any misuse of this information.