How to Use a Four Pin Comb Lock Pick
Learn how to use a four pin comb lock pick. A simple guide for beginners on how comb picks work, which locks they open, and how to use them safely.
How to Use a Four Pin Comb Lock Pick
A four pin comb pick looks simple but it works on one of the oldest lock weaknesses out there. If you’ve ever seen a cheap padlock that feels like it came out of a claw machine, odds are this tool can pop it open faster than you can find the key. This guide breaks down what a four pin comb pick is, how to use it, and how to know which locks it works on so you don’t waste time or break tools in the field.
→ All Items with a four pin comb pick
What Is a Four Pin Comb Lock Pick
A four pin comb pick is a single piece lock bypass tool with four small teeth. These teeth are shaped and spaced so they slip under all the top pins inside a low security lock and push them out of the way as one group. Instead of picking each pin individually like traditional lock picks, a comb pick shoves all the pins up above the shear line at the same time which frees the core to turn.
It is fast. It is simple. And when it works, it works instantly.
How to Use a Four Pin Comb Lock Pick
Step 1: Identify the Right Lock
This tool works only on certain cheap spring-style padlocks. The lock must have:
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Four pins
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Overset chambers (the pins can be pushed very high)
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Weak springs
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A core that turns freely once pins are lifted
If you can see the pin stacks through the keyway or the lock feels featherlight, that’s a good sign.
Step 2: Insert the Comb Pick Teeth Into the Keyway
Slide the comb pick into the lock with the teeth facing upward toward the pin stacks. If you feel the teeth hitting solid metal immediately, the lock likely doesn’t have enough vertical travel to be combed.
Step 3: Push Upward to Raise All Pins
Apply gentle upward pressure. You’re trying to lift all the top pins up and out of the plug.
If it’s working, you’ll feel a soft spring resistance then a small “pop” as the pins reach the overset channel.
Step 4: Turn the Tool Like a Key
Once the pins are lifted out of the way, rotate the comb pick like you would a normal key.
If the core doesn’t turn:
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You may not be deep enough
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You may not be pushing the pins high enough
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The lock may not be compatible
If it is compatible you’ll get a clean turn and an instant open.
Improvised Options
There’s no great improvised version of a comb pick because the spacing and tooth depth must match the lock perfectly. But in a pinch you can try:
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Bending the tip of a hacksaw blade into four tiny prongs
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Filing small teeth into a thin strip of steel
Neither will be as reliable or durable as a purpose made tool but they can work on very cheap locks if spacing happens to match.
If you actually need reliability, stick with the dedicated version.
What Locks a Four Pin Comb Pick Works On
A four pin comb pick works on:
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Cheap laminated body padlocks
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Off-brand hardware store locks
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Low cost rekeyable padlocks
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Older dead cheap models with soft springs
It does not work on:
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Security pin locks
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Tight tolerance padlocks
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Disc detainer locks
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Anything with anti manipulation pins
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Most modern brand name locks
If your lock cost more than five dollars, chances drop fast.
FAQ
Q: Does a four pin comb pick damage the lock?
A: Not usually. You are lifting the pins but not forcing them sideways. The danger comes from cheap locks that crumble under pressure, not from the tool itself.
Q: Why won’t the tool go in far enough?
A: The lock likely doesn’t have deep enough pin chambers to allow the teeth to slide under the top pins. Some locks simply cannot be combed.
Q: My tool lifts the pins but the lock still won’t turn. Why?
A: A few reasons:
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The pins may not be raised high enough
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The pins might be binding sideways
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The lock may use security pins
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The lock might have tight tolerances
Any of these stops combing from working.
Q: Does this tool require a tension wrench?
A: No. Comb picks do not use tension. They lift and turn as a single combined motion.
Q: Can this open Master Lock models?
A: Only the very old and cheap ones. Anything with anti combing protection won’t open.
Q: Should I lubricate the lock first?
A: A tiny bit of dry graphite can help old or gritty locks open smoother, but it isn’t required.
Q: Is this better than traditional lock picking?
A: It’s faster when it works but it works on far fewer locks. Think of it as a shortcut tool, not a universal one.
Q: Will this ever work on door locks?
A: No. Door locks have tighter tolerances and anti overset chambers. Comb picks are strictly for low grade padlocks.
Q: Can the teeth bend or break?
A: Yes if you force them. Let the tool do the work. As soon as you hit solid resistance, stop and reassess.
Tool and Skill Reccomendations
If you want to get the most out of this tool, pair it with the rest of your escape and entry kit. A comb pick is great for certain locks but you’ll still want rakes, tension wrenches, a hook pick, and a bypass knife to cover the rest of the lock types you’ll run into.
For a deeper dive into related techniques check out:
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