How to Pick a Lock

An Introduction to Lock Picking: How to Pick Pin Tumbler Locks

How to Pick a Lock (Basics)

Secrets of pin tumbler locks explained

Inside a Pin Tumbler Lock: How It Functions

Learning to pick a standard pin and tumbler lock shows just how vulnerable they really are. Pin and tumbler locks feature two pins (a driver pin and a key pin) in each channel, as well as a spring. When the proper key is inserted, each pin stack is lined up along what’s called the shear line and this allows the internal cylinder to rotate. The goal in picking a lock is to apply tension and push each pin stack upwards, causing the driver pin to move past the shear line and stay put. Once each pin