What Are The Lock Pick Tools Used By Professional Locksmiths To Provide Efficient Service

As a mobile locksmith, having the right tools organized and easily accessible is crucial for performing efficient and successful jobs. A Lock Picking Kit should be well-arranged in order to quickly grab the appropriate tool for any task. Instead of carrying a bulky and cumbersome tool bag, locksmiths often keep their equipment neatly sorted into tool bags or boxes by category. This allows for easier access to specialized tools when needed. Here are some of the essential tools used by professional locksmiths on a daily basis and the role each one plays in providing top-tier service.

 

 

1. Tweezers

Tweezers may seem like a simple tool, but they are indispensable for certain locksmithing tasks. In particular, they are used for rekeying locks. The tweezers used by locksmiths are specially designed with long, fine tips that are grooved for precision. These tweezers help with loading cylinder pins quickly and efficiently, making the rekeying process smoother and faster.

 

2. Slim Jim (Lock Pick)

One of the most iconic tools for locksmiths is the Slim Jim. This is a long, flat strip of metal, typically around 24 inches in length and between 0.79–1.57 inches in width. The Slim Jim is primarily used to unlock car doors without the need for a key or traditional lock pick. By carefully maneuvering the Slim Jim between the window and the weather stripping of a car door, a locksmith can manipulate the lock’s internal mechanisms and unlock the door.

 

However, this tool requires significant skill and training. Incorrect usage can result in damage to the car’s locking system, and it should only be used by professionals who know how to handle it safely and effectively.

 

3. Key Cutter Machine

For locksmiths who work on-site, key duplication is often a vital service. A key cutter machine is essential for quickly and accurately creating duplicates of house or car keys right from the van. These machines are capable of cutting keys to the exact specifications of the original, whether it’s for a simple door key or a more complex high-security key. By having key-cutting equipment on the move, locksmiths can provide a prompt and convenient service without the need to visit a shop or office.

 

4. Key Gauge

The key gauge is an essential tool for measuring the cuts of a key. It helps locksmiths determine the exact depth of each cut in a key blank, ensuring that the duplicate key will work properly with the lock it’s intended for. Key gauges come in various forms, typically as a series of slots or holes, each marked with specific depth measurements. Using a key gauge is important for precise key duplication, especially when dealing with high-security locks or complex systems.

 

5. Hook Pick / Lock Pick

Lock picks are one of the most commonly used tools by professional locksmiths. The hook pick, in particular, is designed for picking locks in a specific manner that manipulates the pins inside the lock. Lock picks come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of locks. The hook pick is especially useful for dealing with pin tumbler locks, which are common in residential and commercial settings.

 

Though using a lock pick requires training and skill, it is a key Lock Pick Tool for locksmiths when traditional keys or methods aren’t available.

 

 

6. Precision Screwdrivers

Locks often contain very small screws that can be difficult to handle with standard-sized screwdrivers. Precision screwdrivers are essential for these tasks. These screwdrivers are much smaller than the average variety, allowing locksmiths to remove screws from small components such as lock cylinders and housings. A good set of precision screwdrivers ensures that locksmiths can work efficiently without damaging delicate internal parts of the lock.

 

7. Shim Stock

Shim stock is a thin, flexible piece of metal that locksmiths use primarily for rekeying locks. It can be inserted into the locking mechanism to bypass the pins or springs, allowing the locksmith to quickly manipulate the lock’s internal workings. Shim stock is often used when working with pin-tumbler locks, especially in situations where more conventional techniques aren’t sufficient or efficient.

 

8. Jackknife Pick

The jackknife pick is a multi-functional tool that folds up like a pocket knife. It typically features several picks attached to the handle, each designed for different types of locks. Jackknife picks are particularly useful for picking household locks such as bedroom or bathroom locks. The various picks can be used depending on the internal mechanism of the lock, allowing for quick and efficient intervention when needed.

 

9. Bump Key

A bump key is a modified version of an ordinary key that has been shaved down to create a “universal” key capable of bypassing certain types of locks. It works by being inserted into the lock and “bumped,” causing the pins to momentarily align and unlock the door. While bump keys can be effective in emergency situations, they are typically used by experienced locksmiths who are knowledgeable about the specific lock types. This tool can be controversial due to its potential for misuse, but when used properly, it’s a powerful asset in the locksmith’s toolkit.

 

For those looking to enter the locksmithing field, proper training and understanding of how to safely and effectively use these Professional Lock Pick Sets is essential to avoiding damage to property and ensuring customer satisfaction.

 

 

Conclusion

Locksmithing is a skilled trade that requires not only technical knowledge but also a variety of specialized tools. Each tool serves a specific purpose, from duplicating keys and picking locks to manipulating small components in a lock. Whether working on a residential, commercial, or automotive lock, professional locksmiths rely on their tools to deliver efficient and reliable services. By maintaining an organized and well-stocked toolkit, locksmiths can be ready for any job that comes their way, ensuring they provide fast and effective solutions every time.