What is the best thing to pick a lock with

Lock picking, an ancient craft, has captivated the curiosity of both enthusiasts and professionals for generations. It's crucial to stress that lock picking should only be practiced legally and responsibly. However, understanding the tools of this trade is vital for locksmiths and hobbyists alike. In this article, we will delve into the best tools for lock picking, shedding light on their characteristics and discussing their suitability for various scenarios.

 
The Tension Wrench: The Foundation
At the heart of any lock-picking endeavor lies the tension wrench. This slim piece of metal serves the critical function of applying rotational force to the lock's cylinder, mimicking the action of a key. Tension wrenches come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different lock types. When selecting a tension wrench, it's essential to consider factors like width and thickness, ensuring a snug fit in the lock's keyway.
 
Lock Picks: The Precision Instruments
Lock picks are the primary tools used to manipulate the internal components of a lock. They come in various forms, each designed to interact with different parts of the lock mechanism. Here are some commonly used lock picks:
a) Hook Picks: Resembling a curved hook at the end, these picks offer versatility and precision in manipulating individual pins.
b) Rake Picks: Featuring a wavy or sawtooth shape, rake picks excel at quickly manipulating multiple pins simultaneously through rapid up-and-down movements.
c) Diamond Picks: Equipped with a diamond-shaped end, these picks provide flexibility in reaching and manipulating pins in confined spaces.
 
Torsion Tools: The Perfect Complement
Torsion tools, also known as torsion wrenches or tension bars, work in tandem with tension wrenches. They apply rotational force while maintaining tension on the lock cylinder. Similar to tension wrenches, torsion tools vary in size and shape to accommodate different locks. Common types include:
a) Bottom of the Keyway (BOK) Tension Tools: These tools fit into the lower part of the keyway, ensuring stability and precise control.
b) Top of the Keyway (TOK) Tension Tools: Positioned at the upper portion of the keyway, TOK tension tools offer a wider range of motion and enhanced visibility.
 
Specialized Instruments: Expanding Possibilities
In addition to the core tools, specialized instruments can be valuable additions to a lock picker's toolkit. Some examples include:
 
a) Key Extractors: These tools are indispensable for removing broken or stuck keys from locks, particularly in cases where the key has snapped inside the lock.
 
b) Tubular Lock Picks: Tailored for tubular locks commonly found in vending machines and coin-operated devices, these tools manipulate the lock's pin-tumbler mechanism.
 
c) Electric Lock Picks: Powered by electricity or batteries, electric lock picks deliver a motorized picking action. They prove especially useful for professional locksmiths who require speed and efficiency.
 
Lock picking Tools is an intricate skill that demands practice, patience, and the right tools. Tension wrenches, lock picks, torsion tools, and specialized instruments constitute the core of a proficient lock picker's toolkit. It is crucial to emphasize that lock picking should always be conducted legally and ethically, and knowledge of lock picking should be applied responsibly and with the utmost discretion.