Firstly, let us clarify that we’re not endorsing anyone to go out and start picking locks. However, we do think it’s important to know the basics of lock picking in case they’re needed in an emergency.
The Basics
The most common lock mechanism is that of a pin tumbler. Pin tumblers use a series of pins of different lengths that prevent the lock from opening without using the correct key.
The pins are stacked in the keyhole, and a space separates each one. When you insert your key and turn it, these pins are pushed up by the grooves on your key. They will allow you to open the lock when all of them have been pushed up high enough.
If any pin does not push high enough due to being too short or because it has been damaged, that pin will prevent the rest from being pushed up properly. The key cannot open the lock because something is blocking its way.
If you’re looking to pick a lock, the first thing to know is that there are many different types. Most locks within residential homes will be pin tumblers; hence when it comes to lock picking, using a pick and a tension wrench can be two of your saviours.
The most popular lock-picking tools used today are called picks and rakes. Picking requires great precision and patience, but if done correctly, you can open almost any lock with just two tools.
Picks are used to manipulate the pins in the lock that prevent the plug from turning. Rakes force certain pins up or down to align with their shear lines.
Picking a lock takes patience. It is the manipulation of the components of a lock to open the lock without using a key. When you pick a lock, you are taking advantage of weaknesses in the way it was designed to open and turn them into strengths.
Picking a lock requires some tools and materials, but they are readily available at any hardware store or home improvement centre.
Have the right tools and equipment – mainly a tension wrench and pin pick.
You can’t get into a lock without the right tools and equipment. The main things you’ll need are:
- A tension wrench, which is a flat piece of metal that fits into the keyway of the lock and stops it from spinning
- A pick is a thin piece of metal with a point on one end and a hook on the other (check out our guide for more information)
- A rake pick tool is similar to a pick but has many more points and can be used to unlock many different types of pin tumbler locks.
Insert the tension wrench into the lock.
To insert the tension wrench, use your pick to hold any picked pins in place. Then insert the tension wrench into the plug, and turn it clockwise.
The tension wrench should slide smoothly into the lock. If it doesn’t, you may have picked a pin too large for its hole or not set it properly.
If you have inserted the tension wrench correctly, slowly turn it counterclockwise until it cannot be turned anymore. As you turn, this will create a bit of resistance, which means you’ve created enough torque on your picks to move them through the lock’s pins.
Insert the pick at the top of the lock.
The first thing you need to do is insert the pick at the top of the lock and apply a little pressure. The idea is to lift each pin individually and apply pressure on it to stay up in place.
You then need to insert another pick at the bottom of the lock, which will push down each pin individually. This process can take time, but you can open your lock quickly once you finish it.
Turn the tension wrench and open the lock.
When you are finished picking the lock, it is time to open it. To do this, turn the tension wrench clockwise while holding the plug still. If done correctly, all pins should fall into place, and the lock will open. If not, re-apply pressure on the key pin and try again.
Of course, picking locks takes many years of practice and a professional locksmith! Someone who can pick a lock without causing any damage to the lock or door itself and who can do this in a reasonably quick time. If you need a reliable Newcastle locksmith, Tyne-Tees Locksmiths can help with all your locksmithing needs.
The team at Tyne Tees Locks is on hand to help with all locking requirements and always comes fully equipped for all lock-picking emergencies!
