Confused by all the different lock picks Locksmith Tool ? Our guide breaks down the various types of lock picking tools—from hooks to rakes—and explains what each one does.
In the world of locks and security, not all tools are created equal. Just as a mechanic has a specific wrench for every nut and bolt, a locksmith utilizes a specialized tool for each type of lock. For enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike, understanding the nuances of these tools is the key to mastering the craft. This comprehensive guide from cartooldeal.com will serve as your informational hub, detailing the function and application of different types of lock picking tools, solidifying your knowledge and establishing us as your go-to resource for locksmith tools.
The Anatomy of a Lock Picks : Hooks, Rakes, Diamonds, and Balls
Lock picks are the heart of the toolkit, and they come in a variety of shapes designed to interact with the pins inside a lock. Let's break down the main categories of lock pick types:
Hooks Pick Set
: These are arguably the most fundamental and versatile of all lock pick names. A hook pick features a curved tip and is used for "single pin picking" (SPP). This method involves individually manipulating each pin within the lock to set it at the shear line. Hooks are essential for precision work and are the preferred tool for a locksmith tackling a high-security or complex lock. They come in various sizes, such as short hooks, medium hooks, and deep hooks, to accommodate different keyways and pin heights.
Lock Pick Rakes:
When speed is of the essence, lock pick rakes are the tool of choice. Rakes are designed to rapidly "rake" or "scrub" the pins, attempting to set multiple pins at once. They feature a series of waves or teeth along the working end. Common rake types include the Bogota Rake, the L-rake, and the city rake. While not as precise as a hook, knowing how to use a lock rake effectively can open many standard locks in seconds.
Diamonds Lock Picks:
Diamond picks are a hybrid tool, often used for both raking and single pin picking. The most common is the Half Diamond, which has a triangular shape. It's excellent for locks with tight keyways and for manipulating spool or mushroom pins. Full Diamond picks, with their wider base, are less common but are sometimes used for wafer locks.
As their name suggests, these picks have a rounded or ball-shaped tip. The most popular is the Ball pick, which is specifically designed for manipulating the pins in wafer locks, such as those found on filing cabinets or simple desk drawers. The rounded shape allows it to easily lift the wafers to the correct height.
The Crucial Role of Tension Tools
While the pick gets all the glory, the real workhorse in the lock picking process is the tension tool, also known as a tension wrench. It's not an exaggeration to say that without a tension tool, a pick is useless. The primary purpose of a tension wrench is to apply a light, rotational force to the plug of the lock. This force, or "tension," is what binds the pins at the shear line once they've been set.
Understanding the difference between top-of-the-keyway (TOK) and bottom-of-the-keyway (BOK) tools is crucial for any aspiring locksmith.
Bottom-of-the-Keyway (BOK) Tension Tools:
These are the classic, L-shaped tools that apply tension to the bottom of the keyway. They are simple, effective, and included in almost every beginner's set. However, they can sometimes obstruct the keyway, making it difficult to insert and manipulate your pick.
Top-of-the-Keyway (TOK) Tension Tools:
These tools apply tension to the top of the keyway. They are often preferred by professionals because they leave the entire bottom of the keyway open for your pick, providing more room to maneuver, especially in tight or complex locks. They also provide more precise feedback, which is essential for single pin picking.
Advanced and Specialized Lock Pick Tools
Beyond the fundamental picks and tension tools, the world of locksmith tools includes a variety of advanced and specialized instruments designed for specific situations.
Electric Pick Guns:
An electric pick gun is a mechanical tool that uses a vibrating needle to quickly bounce all the pins in a lock at once. With the right tension, this can cause the pins to momentarily align at the shear line, allowing the lock to be opened. They are incredibly fast but require practice to master.
These are highly specialized tools for opening tubular locks, commonly found on vending machines, bicycle locks, and some safes. The pick has a circular head with individual probes that can be adjusted to match the pin heights of the lock, effectively creating a key on the fly.
Specialized Bypass Tools:
These tools are designed to bypass the traditional picking mechanism entirely. Examples include shims for bypassing warded locks, bypass drivers for specific padlocks, and tools designed to manipulate the locking mechanism from outside the keyway.
Conclusion: The Right Lock Pick Locksmith Tool for the Job
Just as a painter needs a variety of brushes, a locksmith needs a diverse and well-understood set of tools. From the precision of a hook to the speed of a rake, and the absolute necessity of the tension wrench, each tool plays a critical role. Understanding the function of these lock pick types is the first step toward mastering the art of lock picking.
Now that you have a deeper understanding of the tools of the trade, it's time to put your knowledge to the test. Browse our full range of high-quality locksmith tools at
www.cartooldeal.com and find the perfect set to get started or to expand your collection. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, we have the tools you need to succeed.
