Top Tools of the Trade Used by a Locksmith

A locksmith uses a variety of different tools to open all sorts of locks.  They are specialists who have spent a long time studying different types of locks, and many of them will require different sets of tools.  For example, unlocking a car door is going to require different methods and tools than opening the front door to your house or the rusted padlock on your old footlocker.

If you’re interested in becoming a locksmith, you’ll need to get to know their tools of the trade.  Some of the common tools that you will find in the toolbox of a locksmith include torsion wrenches, a Slim Jim, rake picks and manual lock picking guns. 

Here’s a breakdown of what each tool does:

The torsion wrench is always going to be in the toolbox because they have to use this with many of the other tools they have.  It helps to hold the pins in place inside the lock, and to apply pressure to help open the lock.

The lock pick guns are handy and they can open many different types of locks, as well as being quite simple to use.  They place pressure on the bottom pins, which can open the lock. 

The rake pick comes in different styles and sizes, and are some of the most common tools you will find on a locksmith.  The expert uses them in conjunction with the torsion wrench. 

The Slim Jim is a flat piece of steel that has a notch on it.  This tool works for opening car doors by slipping inside the window and grasping the locking mechanism.  Most locksmiths have these on them at all times, especially the mobile locksmiths.

As tempting as it may be, breaking into your home or car is not as easy as you think if you’ve locked yourself out.  Professionals are available for a reason, and will prevent damage or unwanted attention from bystanders or law enforcement agents, who may think you are breaking into someone else’s car or house!