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Tip Card #04 How to Pick a Lock : Visual, and Written Lock Picking Instruction

$1.85

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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.


Grab this tip card, and visit our lock picking beginners page

how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

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.
how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

 

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!

how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

About Grim Workshop

Grim Workshop specializes in designing innovative, everyday carry (EDC) tools and survival gear that are both compact and durable. With nearly a decade of experience, we pride ourselves on creating high-quality products that fit seamlessly into your daily routine or emergency preparedness kit. Our tools, made in the USA from premium materials, are designed to be lightweight, reusable, and highly functional in any situation, whether you’re navigating the urban jungle or the great outdoors. At Grim Workshop, we are committed to helping people be better prepared, no matter where life takes them.

FHow to Pick a Lock Tip Card FAQ

Q: What is the How to Pick a Lock Tip Card made of?
A: The card is made from durable, paper-thin plastic that is waterproof and resistant to wear, ensuring it lasts even in tough conditions.

Q: Is it legal to carry and use this tip card?
A: Yes, it is legal to own and carry the How to Pick a Lock Tip Card. However, The lock picks themselves are not legal to carry in specific states, research your local laws regarding the possession of lock picking tools in your area. lock picking should only be used in legal circumstances, such as unlocking your own property or in emergencies.

Q: Is this card suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the tip card is designed to be a simple, easy-to-follow guide for both beginners or a refresher for those with basic lock-picking knowledge.

Q: What types of locks does the card cover?
A: The card focuses on basic techniques for picking pin tumbler locks, which are commonly found on doors, padlocks, and other everyday locks.

Q: Can I carry the card in my wallet?
A: Absolutely! The card is credit-card-sized, making it easy to carry in your wallet, pocket, or everyday carry kit.

Q: Do I need special tools to follow the instructions on the card?
A: While traditional lock-picking tools are recommended, you can also use improvised items like paper clips or bobby pins in an emergency.

Q: How can I practice lock picking legally?
A: You can make your own basic lock picks, and purchase practice locks specifically designed for lock-picking training. These allow you to develop your skills privately at home.

Shipping This item ships to
Delivery Estimated between and . Will usually ship within 1 business day.

Customer Reviews

Based on 1 review
100%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
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0%
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J
Jason

Good info to have

Description

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.


Grab this tip card, and visit our lock picking beginners page

how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

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.
how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

 

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!

how to pick a lock with a card instructional tip card

About Grim Workshop

Grim Workshop specializes in designing innovative, everyday carry (EDC) tools and survival gear that are both compact and durable. With nearly a decade of experience, we pride ourselves on creating high-quality products that fit seamlessly into your daily routine or emergency preparedness kit. Our tools, made in the USA from premium materials, are designed to be lightweight, reusable, and highly functional in any situation, whether you’re navigating the urban jungle or the great outdoors. At Grim Workshop, we are committed to helping people be better prepared, no matter where life takes them.

FHow to Pick a Lock Tip Card FAQ

Q: What is the How to Pick a Lock Tip Card made of?
A: The card is made from durable, paper-thin plastic that is waterproof and resistant to wear, ensuring it lasts even in tough conditions.

Q: Is it legal to carry and use this tip card?
A: Yes, it is legal to own and carry the How to Pick a Lock Tip Card. However, The lock picks themselves are not legal to carry in specific states, research your local laws regarding the possession of lock picking tools in your area. lock picking should only be used in legal circumstances, such as unlocking your own property or in emergencies.

Q: Is this card suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the tip card is designed to be a simple, easy-to-follow guide for both beginners or a refresher for those with basic lock-picking knowledge.

Q: What types of locks does the card cover?
A: The card focuses on basic techniques for picking pin tumbler locks, which are commonly found on doors, padlocks, and other everyday locks.

Q: Can I carry the card in my wallet?
A: Absolutely! The card is credit-card-sized, making it easy to carry in your wallet, pocket, or everyday carry kit.

Q: Do I need special tools to follow the instructions on the card?
A: While traditional lock-picking tools are recommended, you can also use improvised items like paper clips or bobby pins in an emergency.

Q: How can I practice lock picking legally?
A: You can make your own basic lock picks, and purchase practice locks specifically designed for lock-picking training. These allow you to develop your skills privately at home.

Shipping

Shipping This item ships to
Delivery Estimated between and . Will usually ship within 1 business day.

Customer Reviews

Based on 1 review
100%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
J
Jason

Good info to have

Reviews

Tip Card #04 How to Pick a Lock : Visual, and Written Lock Picking Instruction

Tip Card #04 How to Pick a Lock : Visual, and Written Lock Picking Instruction

$1.85

physical copy or digital download

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3 visitors have this item in their cart right now
3 people have bought this item
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3 Visitor Right Now
Only 602 left! .. people are viewing this, and 3 recently purchased it