A lockpick is an essential tool for locksmiths, hobbyists, and lock-sport enthusiasts. This article will guide you through the process of making your own lockpick in 12 simple steps. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced picker, follow these instructions to craft a functional lockpick from scratch.

Step 1: Choose Your Material

The first step to making a lockpick is to select the right material. Spring steel and windshield wiper inserts are popular choices due to their durability and flexibility.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a well-lit work area that includes a sturdy table or desk, vise, hacksaw, pliers, file, and sandpaper.

Step 3: Determine the Desired Lockpick Shape

There are several types of lockpicks; the most common are the rake, hook, and diamond shapes. For beginners, it’s advisable to start with a simple hook or rake design.

Step 4: Cut the Material to Size

Using the hacksaw, cut the material into an appropriate length for your specific lockpick shape, usually around 3-4 inches (7-10 cm).

Step 5: Shape the Handle

Grip one end of the material with pliers and bend it slightly to create a comfortable handle. Alternatively, you can file down any rough edges to ensure better grip.

Step 6: Form the Pick’s Tip

Using your chosen design as a reference, begin shaping the picking end of your tool. Carefully remove any excess material with a file until you reach your desired shape.

Step 7: Finish Shaping the Pick

Once your pick has taken shape, use sandpaper to smoothen out any rough edges and ensure there are no sharp points that could harm your fingers while using it.

Step 8: Test Your Lockpick for Flexibility

Check that the lockpick is flexible by applying pressure to the picking end and ensuring it returns to its original shape after bending.

Step 9: Harden the Lockpick

If you used spring steel, there’s no need to harden your lockpick; if not, heat-treat the tool by heating it with a propane torch until red-hot. Quickly quench in water and allow it to air dry.

Step 10: Polish Your Lockpick

Using fine-grit sandpaper or a polishing cloth, give your lockpick a sleek and shiny finish.

Step 11: Test Your Lockpick

Practice picking locks with your newly crafted tool. Always begin with locks you own, and make sure picking is legal in your jurisdiction before attempting on real locks.

Step 12: Improve and Refine

As you gain more experience in lock-picking, you may want to create different shapes or designs to tackle various types of locks. Keep refining your technique and improving upon your lockpick creation skills.

And there you have it! Follow these 12 steps, and you’ll have yourself a functional lockpick to use in your chosen pursuits. Remember always to respect others’ privacy and use your skills responsibly.