Learn how to use jiggler key picks to open simple locks by rocking and raking the keyway. Complete beginner to expert guide.

How to Use Jiggler Key Picks for Opening Simple Locks

A complete guide to selecting, inserting, rocking, raking, and understanding jiggler keys for practice on your own locks or training locks

Jiggler keys (also called “try-out keys”) are thin metal keys shaped to mimic common key profiles. They’re designed to rock, rake, and vibrate pins or wafers inside simple locks until the cylinder turns.

They aren’t traditional lock picks — jiggler keys work by imitating the general shape of a real key, allowing them to manipulate certain locks without individually setting pins.

→ All Items with a Jiggler Pick

What Jiggler Keys Are

Jiggler keys are:

Flat, thin metal keys
Cut to broad “universal” shapes
Designed to be inserted and wiggled
Effective on wafer locks and some simple pin-tumbler locks
Often bundled in sets so you can try different shapes
Compact and ideal for EDC lock practice kits

They work by moving multiple internal components at once, instead of individually picking pins.

What Locks Jiggler Keys Work On

They work best on:

Wafer Locks

Filing cabinets
Toolboxes
Older desk drawers
Some cheap padlocks
Luggage locks
Vehicle glove boxes (older models)

Some Low-Security Pin Tumbler Locks

Older padlocks
Cheap hardware-store locks
Locks with loose tolerances

They Do NOT Work On

High-security locks
Locks with tight tolerances
Modern automotive locks
Locks with security pins
Electronic or magnetic locks

Pairs with:
→ How to Use a Tension Wrench
→ Using Your Rake Lock Picks
→ Using Your hook Lock Picks
→ All Tools with Lock Picks

How Jiggler Keys Work

Inside a simple lock:

You insert a jiggler key
You apply slight turning tension
You rock, jiggle, rake, or vibrate the key
The internal wafers or pins move
When they line up correctly, the lock turns

Instead of precision picking, jiggler keys rely on motion and profile shape to brute-align internal components.

How to Hold a Jiggler Key

1. Standard Key Grip

Hold it like a normal key for controlled turning.

2. Pencil Grip

Helpful for small padlocks or tiny keyways.

3. Two-Finger Jiggle Grip

Pinch lightly and use wrist motion to vibrate the key.

You’ll switch grips depending on the lock you’re practicing with.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Jiggler Keys

Step 1: Select the Right Jiggler

Start with:

Keys that match the general keyway
Keys with similar grooves
Keys that physically fit the lock

Try the thinnest profile first, then move thicker.

Step 2: Insert the Jiggler Key Fully

Push it all the way into the lock until it stops.

If it won’t slide in:

Check for keyway obstruction
Try a different jiggler shape
Don’t force it — you can bend the tool

Step 3: Apply Light Turning Tension

This is the most important part.

Use:

The jiggler itself
or
A tension wrench (recommended for precision)

Apply very light rotational pressure in the direction the key normally turns.

Step 4: Jiggle, Rock, and Rake

Use small motions:

Rocking

Tilt the tool up and down like turning a steering wheel.

Jiggling

Vibrate the key rapidly with wrist motion.

Raking

Slide the key in and out slightly while maintaining tension.

Rotating

Turn the tool gently while rocking it.

Each lock responds differently. Experiment with motion patterns.

Step 5: Adjust Tension as You Jiggle

If nothing moves:

Reduce tension
Try a slightly firmer tension
Let go briefly and try again

Jiggler keys depend heavily on correct tension — too much tension locks wafers in place.

Pairs with:
→ How to Use a Tension Wrench

Step 6: Test Multiple Keys

Most success comes from testing several jigglers.

Workflow:

Try one
Jiggle for 10–20 seconds
If no movement, switch to the next key
Repeat until you find the right profile

Once you find a key that works, it becomes your “go-to” for that lock style.

Advanced Jiggling Techniques

Feathering

Micro-adjusting tension while rocking the key.

Rhythmic Jiggle

Use consistent rhythmic taps — many wafer locks respond well.

Full-Depth Sweep

Push jiggler fully in, then pull out 1–2 millimeters while rocking.

Tip-Stroke Method

Use the very tip to manipulate wafers individually within the profile.

Counter-Twist Reset

Ease tension to reset wafers when the lock binds.

How to Use Jiggler Keys With a Tension Wrench

Though jigglers can sometimes apply tension themselves, using a tension wrench gives much better control.

Steps

Insert tension wrench BOK or TOK
Apply light torque
Insert jiggler key behind it
Use rocking and jiggling motions
Adjust tension constantly

This combination dramatically increases success rate.

Signs You’re Close to Opening the Lock

Watch for:

A slight click or shift inside
Increased rotation in the tension wrench
Jiggler key sliding more freely
Sound of wafers aligning
Resistance suddenly dropping

These signals tell you the lock is nearly open.

How to Improvise a Jiggler Key

In rare emergency or training scenarios:

1. Thin Scrap Metal

Cut and shape into key profiles.

2. Old Credit Card Metal Strips

Some metal-backed cards can be shaped.

3. Flat Steel from a Can Lid

Trim and shape carefully (avoid sharp edges).

4. Hacksaw Blade Backing

Remove teeth and shape the spine.

5. Bike Spoke Segment

Flatten and cut to shape.

Improvised jigglers are not ideal, but workable for practice.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Using too much tension
Forcing the jiggler into the keyway
Not trying multiple profiles
Expecting instant success on pin-tumbler locks
Forgetting to lubricate stiff locks
Rocking too aggressively and bending the tool
Trying on high-security locks (they won’t work)

Expert Tips

Jigglers shine on wafer locks — prioritize those for practice
Always start with the thinnest jiggler that fits
Use a tension wrench for 3x better feedback
Try rhythmic patterns instead of random shaking
If a lock doesn’t open in 20 seconds, switch jigglers
Jiggle lightly — don’t muscle it
Practice on clear locks to understand wafer movement

FAQ

Q: Can jiggler keys open every lock?
A: No — they work mainly on wafer locks and cheap padlocks.

Q: Do jiggler keys damage locks?
A: Not if used gently and properly.

Q: Should I use a tension wrench with jigglers?
A: Yes — it gives better control and higher success rates.

Q: Are jigglers the same as bump keys?
A: No — bump keys use impact; jigglers use motion and profile.

Q: Why doesn’t my jiggler work on some locks?
A: Those locks may have tight tolerances or security pins.