How to Pick a Lock Tip Card

How to pick a lock with a card is a breeze with this Weatherproof plastic tip card. The Lock Picking Tip Card is a compact, waterproof, credit-card-sized guide that provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to pick basic locks in an emergency. Made from durable, paper-thin plastic, this tip card is designed to fit easily into your wallet or EDC kit, ensuring you always have a reliable resource at hand. The card covers essential lock-picking techniques using simple tools like a tension wrench and pick, along with visual diagrams for quick reference. Whether you're locked out or need access in a survival situation, this easy-to-carry guide provides a straightforward approach to lock-picking that can help when time is of the essence.

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Lock picking can be a valuable skill in emergencies when you need quick access to a locked space. Here's a basic guide to help you understand how to pick common pin tumbler locks, one of the most widely used types of locks.

Understand the Pin Tumbler Lock Mechanism

A standard pin tumbler lock has two main parts:

• The Plug: The part where the key is inserted, which rotates to unlock the mechanism.
• Pins: Each lock contains a set of spring-loaded pins. When the correct key is inserted, it pushes the pins to the correct height, allowing the plug to turn.

The goal of lock picking is to mimic this process and push the pins into the right position so the plug can rotate without a key.

Gather Basic Tools

To pick a lock, you will need two simple tools:

• Tension Wrench: A small, L-shaped tool used to apply pressure to the plug.
• Lock Pick: A tool used to push the pins to the correct height.

In an emergency, you can improvise these tools using items like paper clips, bobby pins, or other thin, flexible objects.

Insert the Tension Wrench

Start by inserting the tension wrench into the bottom part of the keyhole (the plug). Apply gentle pressure in the direction the key would turn to unlock the lock. Be cautious—too much pressure can bind the pins, making it difficult to pick.

 Insert the Pick

With the tension wrench applying slight pressure, insert the pick into the upper part of the keyhole. The pick will be used to push the pins upward, one at a time.

Feel for the Pins

As you move the pick inside the lock, you will feel a series of small, spring-loaded pins. Gently push up on each pin, feeling for the one that is "binding" or resisting the most. This is the pin that needs to be set first.

 Set the Pins

Once you find the binding pin, push it up slowly until you feel it "set" in place. You’ll know it’s set when you feel a slight click or notice that the tension wrench becomes easier to turn. Continue working through the pins one by one, setting each until all pins are in the correct position.

Turn the Plug

After all the pins are set, maintain light pressure with the tension wrench and gently turn it to rotate the plug. If all the pins are set correctly, the lock will open.

• Gentle pressure: Apply just enough pressure with the tension wrench to hold the pins in place, but not so much that they bind.
• Patience: Lock picking requires a delicate touch and patience. Rushing the process or applying too much force will make it harder to succeed.
• Practice: Familiarize yourself with the feel of lock picking by practicing on inexpensive practice locks.

DIY Survival Tip Cards for Every Situation 

Dozens of other tip cards from Grim Workshop exist, each with some of the best survival tips ever on their own unique subject and focus, all containing valuable information, perfect for the avid learner, bushcraft, or hunting enthusiast, or as an emergency information kit in a mini survival kit, get home bag, or bug out bag. To view our entire line of survival tip cards, click HERE!