In a world of picklock tools security measures, picking locks is a useful and wickedly fun skill. Whether you have criminal intent or simply want to be prepared in the case of a collapsed society, a basic set of lockpick tools will serve you well. They also come in handy for many other purposes, like helping a friend with a locked door or rescuing a child from their locked crib. Plus, they are small enough to fit in your wallet pocket behind a credit card.

While some locks require more tools than others, even advanced pickers generally only use a few different picks. Here’s what you need to get started and progress your lockpicking skills.

Mastering the Art of Entry: A Guide to Essential Picklock Tools

The most commonly used and versatile pick in any lock picking kit, the standard short hook is a narrow and pointy tool that is ideal for single pin picking (also known as raking). It can span most BoK keyways while remaining stable in the middle, which allows you to manipulate one pin at a time.

Widest Offset Pick

The wide offset and slim profile of this pick allow it to pivot and curve around pin stacks without touching them, reducing the likelihood of slippage. It is also great at reaching and setting radically short pins tucked tight behind long pins, which can be challenging to reach with shorter picks.

Tension Wrenches

Tension wrenches are vital to a lock picker’s arsenal as they provide the power needed to manipulate the pins and jimmy open the lock. The best tension wrenches are crafted from quality materials and have a comfortable grip that makes them easy to use for prolonged periods of time.