How to Pick a Lock (And Why You Shouldn't Try It Yourself)

The Art and Science of Lock Picking

Lock picking is one of the most misunderstood skills in the locksmith industry. Movies make it look easy, but real lock picking requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Here's a professional's perspective on how it works — and why you should leave it to the experts.

How Pin Tumbler Locks Work

The majority of residential locks use a pin tumbler mechanism. Inside the lock cylinder are several key pins of varying heights, each sitting on top of a driver pin. When the correct key is inserted, all the key pins are lifted to exactly the right height, aligning the gap between each pin pair at the shear line — allowing the cylinder to rotate.

How Lock Picking Works

A locksmith (or a lockpicker) uses two tools: a tension wrench and a pick. The tension wrench applies slight rotational pressure to the cylinder while the pick individually manipulates each pin. Because of manufacturing tolerances, one pin will bind first. By lifting that pin to the shear line while maintaining tension, it sets in place. The process repeats pin by pin until all are set and the lock opens.

Why This Is Harder Than It Looks

Finding the binding pin requires a sense of feel developed through hours of practice. Too much tension and nothing moves; too little and the pins drop back down. Different lock brands have different internal geometries, requiring different pick profiles and techniques.

Why You Shouldn't Try It Yourself

• Improper tension can warp or damage the lock cylinder
• Broken picks can become lodged inside the lock
• Many modern locks have anti-pick features (spool pins, serrated pins) that make amateur picking nearly impossible
• It's almost always faster and cheaper to call a professional

Call a Professional Instead

Provo Locksmith UT has the training and tools to open any lock efficiently and without damage. Call us 24/7 at (385) 283-6134.