Locksmithing/Tools

Type of tool

The following is a list of tools that would be found in a commercial set. Depending on the size of the set it may contain sizes and/or designs to better fit different locks. Most all of them are made of thin steel or other hard metals.

Tool sets

The tools for lock picking are usually different for each type of lock and can sometimes be improvised from common items.

Lock pick kits can be purchased openly via the internet. Many different selections are present. 9-piece sets and a 32-piece set equipped with a Pick Gun for example differ in value and price greatly. However, many lock pickers state that for most locking devices, a basic set of 5 picks should be enough; therefore it is unnecessary even to carry around a wide variety of professional lockpicks.

Lock picking is a skill that requires patience and precision. While lock picking can be useful for locksmiths or emergency situations (like being locked out of your own home), it’s important to use this knowledge responsibly and within legal boundaries. Here’s a guide to making basic lock-picking tools at home.

Understanding Lock-Picking Tools

There are four main types of tools used in lock picking:

• Hooks – Used for single pin picking (SPP).
• Rakes – Used for quickly manipulating multiple pins at once.
• Tension Wrenches – Provide the necessary torque to hold picked pins in place.
• Bump Keys – Specially cut keys designed to “bump” the pins into place.
• Half-Diamond Pick - Works for single-pin picking and raking and useful for locks with odd pin heights or wafer locks.
• Ball Rake Pick - Used for raking locks by quickly moving multiple pins at once. Great for round-pin tumbler locks and quick lock manipulation.
• Harpoon- Extracts broken keys stuck inside locks. Works by hooking onto the broken piece for removal.

DIY

If you want to create your own tools, here’s how to do it:

Tension Wrench

A tension wrench is essential for applying the right amount of torque. You can make one using:

• A windshield wiper insert (thin and springy metal)
• A paperclip (for small locks)
• An Allen wrench (grind it thinner if needed)

Steps:

1. Take a windshield wiper insert or a small Allen wrench.
2. Bend one end at a 90-degree angle (about 1/4 inch from the tip).
3. Flatten the bent section slightly using pliers for better grip inside the lock.

Hook Pick

A hook pick is used for single-pin picking.

• Materials: Bobby pin, street sweeper bristle, or hacksaw blade
• Tools: Pliers, file, sandpaper, or rotary tool (Dremel)

Steps:

1. If using a hacksaw blade, cut it down to about 3-4 inches.
2. File one end into a gentle curve, forming a “hook” shape.
3. Smooth the edges with sandpaper to avoid damaging the lock.
4. Wrap the handle with tape or heat shrink tubing for comfort.

Rake Pick

A rake is used to quickly move multiple pins at once.

• Materials: Jigsaw blade, hacksaw blade, or street sweeper bristle
• Tools: Rotary tool, file, pliers

Steps:

1. Take a thin metal strip (hacksaw blade works well).
2. File one edge into a series of small peaks (like a saw blade) to mimic the standard rake pick.
3. Smooth all sharp edges with sandpaper.
4. Add a handle for comfort.

Bump Key

Bump keys require a working key for the same lock type.

• Materials: Blank key or a key for the same brand
• Tools: File, rotary tool

Steps:

1. File down each tooth of the key into a “sawtooth” pattern.
2. The cuts should be deep enough to push all pins up when struck.
3. Smooth rough edges and test the fit in the lock.

Half-Diamond Pick

• Materials: Hacksaw blade, jigsaw blade, street sweeper bristle, or bobby pin
• tools: Pliers, file, rotary tool (Dremel), sandpaper

Steps:

1. Shape the Blade:
   
   1. Cut a strip of metal 3-4 inches long.
      
   2. Use a file or rotary tool to shape one end into a triangular “half-diamond” tip.
      
   3. The angle should be around 45 degrees for versatility.
2. Smooth the Edges:
   1. Use sandpaper to remove sharp edges
3. Create a Handle:
   1. Wrap the other end in tape or heat-shrink tubing for a comfortable grip.

Ball Rake Pick

• Materials: Hacksaw blade, jigsaw blade, street sweeper bristle
• Tools: File, pliers, rotary tool, sandpaper

Steps:

1. Cut a Metal Strip:
   1. Shape a 3-4 inch strip of metal.

1. Form the Ball Shape:
   1. File one end into a rounded tip, similar to a small ball.
   2. Alternatively, create a double-ball shape for more versatility.
2. Polish and Handle:
   1. Smooth all edges.
   2. Add tape or tubing for grip.

Harpoon Tool

• Materials: Paperclip, hacksaw blade, jigsaw blade, bobby pin, or safety pin
• Tools: Pliers, rotary tool, sandpaper

Steps:

1. Create the Hook: Take a thin, strong metal piece and use pliers to bend the tip into a small, sharp hook.
   
2. Sharpen the Tip: Use a file or rotary tool to make the hook edge sharp.
   
3. Test the Fit: Insert it into the lock, hook the broken key, and gently pull it out.