The big secret of lock picking is that it's easy. Anyone can learn how to pick locks. The theory of lock picking is the theory of exploiting mechanical defects.

Knowing how a lock works when it is opened by a key is only part of what you need to know. You also need to know how a lock responds to picking. From this manual you will learn the models which will help you understand a lock's response to picking.

The key is inserted into the keyway of the plug. The protrusions on the side of the keyway are called wards. Wards restrict the set of keys that can be inserted into the plug. The plug is a cylinder which can rotate when the proper key is fully inserted.

In order to become good at picking locks, you will need a detailed understanding of how locks works and what happens as it is picked. This document uses two models to help you understand the behavior of locks. You will learn about a model that highlights interactions between pin positions. Workings of picking and complicated mechanical defects will also be explained here.

The procedure for one pin at a time picking a lock is to apply a sheer force, and the pin which is binding the most, and push it up. When the top of the key pin reaches the sheer line, the moving portion of the lock will give slightly, and driver pin will be trapped above the sheer line. This is called setting a pin.

MIT Guide to Lock Picking presents us with basic concepts and definition with detailed understanding of how locks works and what happens as it is picked with a lot of other pertinent information.

Contents in MIT Guide to Lock Picking is categorized in following order:

  • It's Easy
  • How a Key Opens a Lock
  • The Flatland Model
  • Basic Picking & The Binding Defect
  • The Pin Column Model
  • Basic Scrubbing
  • Advanced Lock Picking
  • Mechanical Skills
  • Zen and the Art of Lock Picking
  • Analytic Thinking
  • Exercises
  • Exercise 1: Bouncing the pick
  • Exercise 2: Picking pressure
  • Exercise 3: Picking Torque
  • Exercise 4: Identifying Set Pins
  • Exercise 5: Projection
  • Recognizing and Exploiting Personality Traits
  • Which Way To Turn
  • How Far to Turn
  • Gravity
  • Pins Not Setting
  • Elastic Deformation
  • Loose Plug
  • Pin Diameter
  • Beveled Holes and Rounded pins
  • Mushroom Driver Pins
  • Master Keys
  • Driver or Spacer Enters Keyway
  • Vibration Picking
  • Disk Tumblers
  • Final Remarks
  • Tools
  • Pick Shapes
  • Street cleaner bristles
  • Bicycle spokes
  • Brick Strap