5 Easy Steps: Lock Picking with a Hairpin

Lock Picking with a Hairpin

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If you find yourself locked out of your home, car, or office, don’t despair; you may be able to pick the lock yourself with a simple hairpin. Lock picking is a skill that can come in handy in various situations, and it’s not as difficult as you might think. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to pick locks with a hairpin.

How to Pick Locks With A Hairpin

Materials you’ll need:

A hairpin
A flashlight (optional)
Patience

Step 1: Find the Keyhole

The first step is to locate the keyhole of the lock you want to pick. Make sure that the keyhole is not obstructed by anything, such as dirt or debris. If the keyhole is dirty, you can use a small brush or a toothpick to clean it out.

Step 2: Insert the Hairpin

Once you have located the keyhole, insert the hairpin into it. The hairpin should be inserted at a slight angle, with the pointed end facing towards the back of the lock.

Step 3: Find the Pins

Once the hairpin is inserted into the keyhole, you need to find the pins. The pins are small metal cylinders that are located inside the lock. The pins prevent the lock from being opened unless they are aligned correctly.

Understanding the Mechanics of Lock Picking

Lock picking, the art of opening locks without a key, relies on a fundamental understanding of how locks work. A lock’s internal mechanism consists of a series of pins that fit into corresponding slots on the key. When the correct key is inserted, the pins align, allowing the cylinder to rotate and unlock.

Lock picking tools, such as hairpins, manipulate these pins to achieve the same result as the key. By inserting the hairpin into the lock, the picker attempts to create a false alignment of the pins, tricking the cylinder into rotating. Key pin: This pin is slightly longer than the other pins and is positioned to engage with the key’s teeth.

Driver pin: These pins rest above the key pin and are pushed upward by the key’s teeth. When the pins are aligned, the cylinder can rotate freely.

Spring: A spring located below the pins provides tension, pushing the pins upward and keeping them in place.

Extraction pins: These pins are located at the top of the cylinder and prevent the cylinder from being removed from the lock when it is in the unlocked position.


Pin Type	Function
Key pin	Engages with the key’s teeth
Driver pin	Pushed upward by the key’s teeth
Spring	Provides tension to keep pins in place
Extraction pins	Prevents cylinder removal when unlocked

Choosing the Right Hairpin for the Job

Not all hairpins are created equal when it comes to lock picking. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right hairpin for the job:

Hairpin Type

Hairpin Type	Pros	Cons
Bobby pin	Widely available, inexpensive, can be easily bent and shaped	Can be too weak for some locks, prone to breaking
Safety pin	Sturdy, can be used to create tension wrenches, less likely to break	Can be more difficult to bend and shape, larger size may not fit into all keyholes
Hair clip	Sturdy, can be used to apply torque, longer length provides more leverage	Can be too bulky for some keyholes, may not be as easy to shape

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the hairpin will depend on the size and shape of the keyhole you are trying to pick. In general, you want to choose a hairpin that is slightly smaller than the keyhole, so that it can easily fit inside without getting stuck. You should also choose a hairpin with a shape that will allow you to reach the pins inside the lock. For example, if the keyhole is narrow and deep, you will need to use a hairpin with a long and slender shaft.

Flexibility

The flexibility of the hairpin is also important. You want to choose a hairpin that is flexible enough to bend and shape without breaking. This will allow you to adjust the hairpin to fit different keyholes and to reach the pins inside the lock.

Creating the Tension Tool

The first step in picking a lock with a hairpin is to create a tension tool. This tool will be used to apply pressure to the lock’s pins, which will allow you to manipulate them into the correct position. You can create a tension tool from various materials, such as a bobby pin, a paperclip, or a small piece of wire.

Bending the Hairpin

To create a tension tool from a hairpin, you will need to bend it into a specific shape. First, straighten the hairpin out as much as possible. Then, bend one end of the hairpin at a right angle, about 1 cm from the tip. This will create the “hook” of the tension tool. Next, bend the other end of the hairpin at a 45-degree angle, about 2 cm from the tip. This will create the “handle” of the tension tool. Finally, bend the handle of the tension tool slightly inward, so that it forms a small loop. This loop will be used to apply pressure to the lock’s pins.

| Step | Description |
|—|—|
| 1 | Straighten the hairpin out. |
| 2 | Bend one end of the hairpin at a right angle, about 1 cm from the tip. |
| 3 | Bend the other end of the hairpin at a 45-degree angle, about 2 cm from the tip. |
| 4 | Bend the handle of the tension tool slightly inward, so that it forms a small loop. |

Positioning the Hairpin

The final stage of lock picking is positioning the hairpins. To begin, determine which way the pins must be set in the cylinder. On the vast majority of standard pin tumbler locks, the pins are pushed up into the top of the plug and they must be pulled down to the shear line in order to open the lock.

Once you know the direction the pins need to go, insert a hairpin into the keyhole and apply tension to the cylinder using the other hairpin. Use the tension hairpin to keep the plug turned slightly in the open direction, while using the other hairpin to manipulate the pins and set them at the shear line. Be gentle when inserting the hairpins, as applying too much force can damage the lock or make it more difficult to pick.

Start by lightly touching the top of the key pins with the tip of the pick. If the pins are not set, you will feel them drop slightly as the pick makes contact. Apply tension to the key pin by pushing down gently with the pick while simultaneously applying tension to the cylinder with the other hairpin. Hold both hairpins steady until the pin sets into the shear line.

Once the first pin is set, move on to the next one. Continue this process until all pins in the lock have been set and the cylinder can be turned freely to open the lock.

Step	Description
1	Determine the direction the pins must be set.
2	Insert a hairpin into the keyhole and apply tension to the cylinder.
3	Lightly touch the top of the key pins with the tip of the pick.
4	Apply tension to the key pin by pushing down gently with the pick while simultaneously applying tension to the cylinder with the other hairpin.
5	Hold both hairpins steady until the pin sets into the shear line.
6	Repeat steps 3-5 for each remaining pin in the lock.
7	Once all pins are set, turn the cylinder to open the lock.

Raking the Pins

Raking is a technique that is commonly used as a first attempt when picking a lock because it has the potential to open a lock very quickly. It involves inserting the tension wrench into the keyway and turning it to create tension.

The hairpin is then guided into the keyway past the tension wrench. The tines are used to repeatedly rake or scrape across the pins. The goal is for the tines of the hairpin to push up on the pins and lift them to the shear line, allowing the lock to be opened.

Raking can be a delicate process, and it is important to experiment with different techniques until you find one that works for you. Some people find that raking the pins slowly and methodically is more effective, while others prefer to rake them more quickly. Some people also find that raking the pins from the bottom up is more effective, while others prefer to rake them from the top down.

Raking can be a challenging technique to master, but it is a versatile technique that can be used on a wide variety of locks.

Tips for Raking the Pins

Start by raking the pins slowly and methodically.
Experiment with different angles until you find one that works for you.
Try raking the pins from different directions.
Be patient and persistent.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t open the lock immediately.

Raking Technique	Description
Top-to-bottom raking	The hairpin is inserted from the top of the keyway and raked down over the pins.
Bottom-to-top raking	The hairpin is inserted from the bottom of the keyway and raked up over the pins.
Side-to-side raking	The hairpin is inserted from the side of the keyway and raked across the pins.

Setting the Pins

With your tension wrench in place, you can start setting the pins. Insert the hairpin into the keyhole and feel for the first pin. The pin will be slightly raised, and you’ll need to push it down until it is level with the other pins.

To do this, gently push the hairpin up against the pin and apply a slight amount of pressure. You should feel the pin begin to move down. Once the pin is set, you can move on to the next one.

If you have difficulty setting a pin, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that the tension wrench is providing enough tension. If it’s not, the pins will not be able to move down. Second, try using a different angle with your hairpin. Finally, you can try applying more or less pressure.

Setting the pins can take some practice, but with time and patience, you’ll be able to do it quickly and easily.

Setting the Pins: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step	Description
1	Insert the hairpin into the keyhole and feel for the first pin.
2	Gently push the hairpin up against the pin and apply a slight amount of pressure.
3	Once the pin is set, move on to the next one.

If you have difficulty setting a pin, try the following:

Make sure that the tension wrench is providing enough tension.
Try using a different angle with your hairpin.
Apply more or less pressure.

Opening the Lock

The lock picking process can be divided into several distinct steps:

Insert the hairpin: Insert the hairpin into the keyhole, taking care not to force it. Gently wiggle it back and forth until you feel it engage with the pins inside the lock.
Find the binding pin: Apply slight upward pressure on the hairpin and try to rotate it. The binding pin is the one that prevents the lock from turning. It will feel like it’s stuck against something.
Lift the binding pin: While maintaining pressure on the hairpin, slowly push it upward until you feel it drop into a "false set". This means the pin has been temporarily lifted but is not yet fully set.
Repeat for other pins: Rotate the hairpin and repeat the process with the other pins until you feel the lock give way. Each pin will need to be lifted into a false set in order to open the lock.
Check for resistance: As you lift the pins, you should feel less resistance on the hairpin. If you encounter any resistance, it means that a pin is not fully lifted.
Apply gentle pressure: Once all the pins have been lifted into false sets, apply gentle pressure on the hairpin while rotating it. If the lock doesn’t open immediately, repeat the process.
Set the lock: After opening the lock, the pins may still be in false sets. Gently rotate the hairpin in the opposite direction to set them back into their original positions.

Advanced Techniques for Difficult Locks

8. Tension Tools for Locks With Warded or Spring Mechanisms

Many locks, such as deadbolts and door locks, have internal mechanisms that prevent the lock from being opened with standard lock picking tools. Warded locks feature a series of ridges or pins that block the keyway when an incorrect key is inserted. Spring-loaded locks have a tension spring that keeps the tumbler pins in place and requires a significant amount of tension to manipulate. To overcome these obstacles, locksmiths use specialized tension tools:

Tool	Description
Shear Wrenches	U-shaped tools that apply controlled tension on the warded pins, allowing them to be pushed out of the way.
Tension Bar	A straight bar inserted between the lock’s keyway and the tension bar to apply pressure on the spring-loaded pins.
Pickle Fork	A forked tool that can slip into narrow keyways and apply tension on warded pins or spring-loaded mechanisms.

Properly selecting and using these tension tools requires advanced skill and may necessitate modifications to the lock’s keyway or mechanism. Attempting to use these tools without proper training can damage the lock or render it unopenable.

Safety Precautions for Lock Picking

Lock picking, while a challenging and rewarding skill, requires adherence to certain safety precautions to ensure the well-being of both the practitioner and those around them:

1. Legal Considerations

Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing lock picking in your jurisdiction. Some areas may require a license or permit to possess or use lock picking tools.

2. Safe Environment

Choose a safe and well-lit location for your lock picking endeavors. Avoid picking locks in public places or near valuable items.

3. Eye Protection

Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or sharp objects that may be ejected from the lock.

4. Hand Protection

Use gloves or finger protectors to prevent cuts and abrasions. Sharp edges or burrs on the lock or tools can pose a hazard.

5. Tool Identification and Storage

Properly identify and store your lock picking tools. Keep them secure to prevent unauthorized access or accidental use.

6. Avoid Damage

Handle the lock and tools carefully to avoid damaging either the lock or the tools. Excessive force or improper technique can cause breakage.

7. Avoid Electrical Hazards

Do not attempt to pick electrical locks or devices, as this can be extremely hazardous and potentially life-threatening.

8. Electric Shock

If you encounter an electric lock or device, immediately disconnect the power source before proceeding.

9. Patience and Perseverance

Lock picking requires patience and perseverance. Frustration or impatience can lead to mistakes, accidents, or damage to the lock. Take your time and approach the task calmly and methodically.

Legal Considerations for Lock Picking

Lock picking is a skill that can be used for both good and nefarious purposes. It’s important to be aware of the legal ramifications of lock picking before you attempt to pick a lock.

1. Is Lock Picking Illegal?

The legality of lock picking varies from state to state. In some states, it is a felony to possess lock picking tools, while in other states it is only a misdemeanor.

2. When Is Lock Picking Legal?

There are a few situations where lock picking is legal. These include:

When you are authorized to do so by the owner of the property.
When you are a locksmith or security professional.
When you are picking a lock for emergency purposes, such as to rescue someone who is trapped.

3. Penalties for Illegal Lock Picking

The penalties for illegal lock picking can vary depending on the state in which you are convicted. However, you can typically expect to face fines, jail time, or both.

4. Defenses to Lock Picking Charges

There are some defenses that you may be able to raise if you are charged with illegal lock picking. These include:

You were authorized to pick the lock.
You were picking the lock for emergency purposes.
You did not know that lock picking was illegal.

5. How to Avoid Lock Picking Charges

The best way to avoid lock picking charges is to simply not pick locks. However, if you do need to pick a lock, be sure to do so legally. This means getting permission from the owner of the property or being a locksmith or security professional.

6. What to Do If You Are Charged with Illegal Lock Picking

If you are charged with illegal lock picking, it is important to contact an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and build a defense for your case.

7. Lock Picking Tools

There are a variety of lock picking tools available. The most common tool is the tension wrench, which is used to apply pressure to the lock. Other tools include the pick, which is used to manipulate the pins inside the lock, and the decoder, which is used to read the pins and determine the correct combination.

8. How to Pick a Lock

There are a number of different ways to pick a lock. The most common method is the pin tumbler method. This method involves using a tension wrench and a pick to manipulate the pins inside the lock. Other methods include the wafer tumbler method and the disc tumbler method.

9. Lock Picking Resources

There are a number of resources available to help you learn how to pick locks. These resources include books, websites, and DVDs.

10. Lock Picking Practice

The best way to learn how to pick locks is to practice. There are a number of ways to practice, including using a practice lock or picking real locks. It is important to be patient and persistent when practicing, as it can take time to learn how to pick locks.

Type of Lock	Difficulty Level
Pin tumbler lock	Easy
Wafer tumbler lock	Moderate
Disc tumbler lock	Difficult

How To Pick Locks With A Hairpin

Learning how to pick locks with a hairpin is a useful skill to have, especially if you ever find yourself locked out of your home or car. It is a relatively simple technique that can be mastered with a little practice and persistence.

There are a few different ways to pick a lock with a hairpin, but the most common method is to use the “raking” technique. This involves inserting the hairpin into the keyhole and moving it up and down in a raking motion. The goal is to snag the pins inside the lock and lift them up to the shear line, which will allow the lock to turn and open.

To rake a lock, insert the hairpin into the keyhole and turn it so that the prongs are facing up. Then, move the hairpin up and down in a raking motion, applying light pressure. Be patient and persistent, and eventually you should be able to feel the pins catching on the hairpin. Once you have snagged a pin, lift it up to the shear line and continue raking until all of the pins are lifted and the lock opens.