How to learn lockpicking?
I live in the UK and would like to learn lockpicking as a hobby and maybe progress in to a career.
I don’t have the time or money to start a proper course so I’d like to try and pick up the basics on my own.
As far as I know, there is nothing illegal about buying and owning lockpicks in the UK. As I understand it; it only becomes illegal when you start carrying them around without a reason or actually attempt to pick someone’s lock.
Does anyone know a reliable and trustworthy place where I can buy a good quality set of lockpicks? I’m not interested in becoming a master locksmith at this early stage nor am I looking to pick ultra high security locks. I’d just like a set that will allow me to go from total beginner to competant amateur. What kind of set do you recommend?
Also, does anyone know of a good comprehensive book that will teach me what I need to know?
Many thanks,
Shane
PS: I’m not a criminal and never intend to become one.
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Comments on How to learn lockpicking? »
Refuse to pay a parking ticket and you’ll spend a weekend with the best teachers in England
get a needel so you put in the hole and then wiggel it around it should work never
tryed it myself no seriously 
Hi, I got interested in lock-picking about a year ago and bought myself a set and have been teaching myself ever since. It’s not easy and needs a lot of perseverance!
You are right about the law. It is fine to own a pick set but when carrying it around, or if you are arrested whilst possessing it, you can be done for possession with intent. Otherwise, no problems. Basically – don’t look suspicious when you have it!
I bought my pick set from. It is easier and far cheaper to buy from America and pay the shipping costs. You will need to buy a Slim Line Euro-Japanese set as the standard American ones are too big. I would advise you to buy a really small set at first, as it will provide all you need for the vast majority of locks. I bought the 8-piece and it’s been grand.
Next step is to buy a lock. Just a basic one will do (like a Yale lock, but you can get cheaper versions). Then take it apart, learn all the ins and outs and put it back together but with just 1 pin (most have about 5 pins). Learn to pick this, and then increase the number of pins each time until you can pick the whole lock.
A few handy websites with advice are these:
Hope this helps and good luck with your new hobby!