Lock picking

Lock picking is the art of unlocking a lock without its intended way to unlock it. Locksmiths are trained in lock picking. The tools for lock picking are usually different for each type of lock.

Techniques to pick different types of locks

Pin-and-tumbler lock: Using a lock pick (or picklock) to push individual pins up until that they are flush with the shear line in the lock while applying turning pressure with a tension wrench to keep the pins at the shear line. Once all of the pins are flush with the shear line, the tension wrench can be turned fully to open the lock. Raking a pin-and-tumbler lock is usually done before individual pins are pushed up. Raking a lock consists us taking a lock pick with a wide tip, putting it at the back of the lock, and quickly sliding it out of the lock with upward pressure so all the pins are pushed up and then applying turning pressure with the tension wrench. Raking may allow some of the pins to be flush with the shear line and can make the job easier. Some pin-and-tumbler locks have special pins, such as mushroom pins and spool pins, that make lock picking more difficult.

Tubular Lock: Using a tubular lock pick to keep the pins from moving once they have been picked until all have been picked, and then turning the lock pick to open.

Combination Lock: Although some cheap combination locks can be opened with a thin metal piece, such as a pin, more expensive ones require the lock-picker to find the combination to the lock. The technique to do this differs with each type of lock and manufacturer.