A lock-picking tool kit allows anyone to break into their own home without needing to kick down the door or smash a window. It’s a wickedly useful and fun skill to have, even for people who don’t have criminal intent. For example, I’ve used mine on more than one occasion to get in after my toddler locked themselves behind the door, and they come in handy for day-to-day situations like that. It’s also a great hobby to keep on hand in the event of any type of mass society collapse or pandemic, and knowing how to pick locks is something that can help you get out of any jam.

A basic kit includes a few picks and a tension wrench. The picks are generally thin, pointed pieces of metal that curve slightly at the end and are used to manipulate the inner parts (pins) of the lock. The wrench is a thin piece of metal with flared ends that can be inserted into the plug and turned to apply pressure.

Becoming a Locksmith Pro: Essential Professional Lock Pick Sets and Skills

The most basic picks are half diamonds and rake picks. Half diamonds are usually 2.5 to 12.2 millimetres long and are the most common pick in most beginner kits. They can be used to rake pins, or, more commonly, be used to single out and lift the first binding pin by detecting which ones bind more than others. This is done by inserting the pick into the lock, feeling around for the outline of the pins with the tip and dragging the tip across them to probe and lift them.