Reading Time: 6 Minutes / Lars Buchwald / July 10, 2025
A Fact Check: The Truth About Lock Picking
Table of Contents
→ A Fact Check: The Truth About Lock Picking
→ Why Lock Picking Fascinates So Many – Including Me
→ One Thing’s Certain: Lock Picking Is Legal. Period.
→ How the Public Sees It – and Why Hollywood Plays a Role
→ What Really Happens: The Reality Is Totally Different
→ Who Actually Uses Lock Picking – and Why It’s Not About Crime
→ What Happens When Lock Picking Gets Misunderstood?
→ Our Position at Multipick? Crystal Clear.
→ Lock Picking Is a Fun Skill – but One That Comes with Responsibility
If you’ve ever seen an action movie, you know the scene: some cool guy kneels in front of a door, pulls a few shiny tools from his pocket – and bam, the lock pops open. Three seconds flat, zero resistance, dramatic soundtrack included – and sometimes even without the tension wrench that’s actually essential.
Somewhere Between Crime Shows, the Internet, and Real Life – Let’s All Just Chill
I’ll be honest: when I saw scenes like that, I used to think, “Wow. I want to do that.” That feeling when a lock clicks open. Understanding the technique. Thinking with your hands. The whole thing fascinated me from the start.
And for many people who discover the topic of lock picking for the first time, the same question always comes up:
Is lock picking even legal? Isn’t that just something burglars do?
Nope. And again: no. But because this topic drags around so many myths, let’s clear things up today – no law degree required, promise.
Why So Many People Love Lock Picking – Me Included
Honestly? It’s just fun. That quiet feeling-your-way through the lock, the moment when the pins start to move – and then, click! – it opens. That sense of success gets even better when it’s a tricky cylinder you’ve been working on for what feels like forever.
For many, lock picking is like meditation with tools. For me too, by the way. There’s nothing better than a quiet evening, great tools, and a lock you want to “conquer” – absolutely brilliant and totally relaxing.
Some pickers even say, “It’s like chess with pins and tension wrenches.”
And yeah, I hear this from friends all the time:
“I’ve always wanted to try that!”
Well, go for it – why not? It’s not illegal. Seriously, it isn’t.
One Thing’s Certain: Lock Picking Is Legal. Period.
In Germany, it’s crystal clear:
You’re allowed to learn, practice, and explore lock picking. Of course, you’re also allowed to buy and own lock picking tools.
As long as you’re working on your own locks or training cylinders – no problem at all.
Owning picks? 100% legal.
Practicing on an old cylinder lock? 100% legal.
What is prohibited is using them to prepare for or commit a crime. That should be obvious – but for the record, let’s say it again. The same applies to kitchen knives, hammers, or screwdrivers.
And in other countries?
In the U.S., France, Austria, and the Netherlands, for example – lock picking is not illegal.
If you’re traveling, though, be sure to check local laws in advance. Not every country sees the issue with the same level of nuance. → Legal Overview Here
How the Public Sees It – and Why Hollywood Plays a Big Role
The problem? Thanks to movies and TV shows, a lot of people have a completely wrong idea about lock picking. It always looks like a fast-forward montage – no failed attempts, no broken picks, no swearing or sweating.
So it’s no wonder you find questions in forums like: “Is it really that easy?” or “Isn’t that just for burglars?”
Let’s put it this way: Burglars don’t need it – and they don’t use it either.
What Really Happens: Reality Is Totally Different
Want some facts?
According to official crime statistics, less than one percent of all break-ins involve lock manipulation. The other 99%? A screwdriver through a tilted window, a strong kick to the door, or simply grabbing the unlocked handle in the back of the house usually does the trick.
“Lock picking is unattractive to criminals – it’s too slow, too noticeable. They use other methods.”
– Police Union, Germany
And it’s the same in the U.S.: The National Crime Prevention Council states it plainly:
“Lock picking is not a relevant method of burglary.”
Maybe screenwriters should Google that before showing another super agent opening a high-security lock with a bobby pin. (Spoiler: That doesn’t work.)
Who Actually Uses Lock Picking – and Why It Has Nothing to Do with Crime
Lock picking is used – but only where non-destructive entry can prevent damage:
– Police and tactical units: When there’s no immediate threat to life.
– Locksmiths: It’s part of the job – and a real challenge, even for the pros.
– IT experts & security geeks: Because security doesn’t end at the firewall – and curiosity is just too strong ;-)
– Tinkerers, hobbyists, sport pickers: Yep, lock picking is also a competitive sport.
What Happens When Lock Picking Gets Misunderstood?
As fascinating as lock picking is – it’s just as easy to misunderstand.
Here’s a real-life example: someone’s practicing with a training lock on a park bench. Someone else sees it, jumps to conclusions (in legal terms: actions that could be considered preparation for a crime), and calls the police. The result? Misunderstandings, lots of questions, maybe even tool confiscation.
That’s why: know where you practice. Not on the train. Not in front of someone else’s door. And please – no videos of real home entries. This is not a show act. It’s a hard no.
Our Position at Multipick? Crystal Clear.
We stand for legal, ethical lock picking – as a hobby and as a profession.
We promote education and the responsible use of our tools.
And we work with people who share those values – whether they’re locksmiths or law enforcement.
There’s something like an unwritten rule in the community:
No real doors. No locks that don’t belong to you. No “hero videos” of opened front doors.
If that doesn’t click, you’ve missed the point – and you’re not the right fit for us.
Lock Picking Is a Skill That’s Fun – and Comes with Responsibility
It’s a brilliant skill – combining feel, finesse, and craftsmanship.
It’s legal – if you know what you’re doing.
And it’s absolutely fascinating – for anyone who’s curious, loves to learn, or enjoys solving puzzles.
Not illegal. Not dangerous. Just exciting – and a great personal challenge.
Want to give it a try? Go for it. You’ll find everything you need right here with us.
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know
1. What’s the Difference Between Cheap Picks and High-End Professional Tools?
Beginner sets are often made of soft metal, poorly deburred, and provide little feedback while picking. Professional tools – like those from Multipick – are made from hardened stainless steel, precisely laser-cut, and give much clearer feedback from the pins inside the lock – crucial for clean and accurate work.
2. How Secure Are Modern Locks Against Lock Picking?
High-quality cylinders rely on advanced protection mechanisms like paracentric keyways, spool pins, mushroom pins, or magnetic/electronic components. Still, no lock is completely pick-proof – the goal is to make manipulation as challenging as possible.
3. Can You Pick Digital or Electronic Locks?
Sort of. Electronic systems can’t be picked in the traditional sense, but may be vulnerable to other techniques like decoding, bypassing, or software exploits. Most lock pickers focus on mechanical systems because they offer the tactile challenge that defines the craft.
4. Is There a Minimum Age for the Lock Picking Hobby?
Legally, no – but many workshops and events require participants to be at least 16 or 18. The key is using tools responsibly. Many teens discover lock picking as a fun and technical hobby – best pursued under the guidance of clubs or the maker community.
5. What Is a “Rake” – and Why Is It Often a Beginner’s First Tool?
A rake is a pick with a jagged profile that affects multiple pins at once – offering less precision but more speed. It’s ideal for beginners looking for quick wins. Pros use rakes mainly to analyze lock mechanisms or as a “first try” method.
6. Are There Competitions or Sporting Events in Lock Picking?
Yes – worldwide. In Europe, for example, at the ELF (European Lockpicking Championship), or in the U.S. at the DEFCON Lockpicking Village. Participants compete in a fair, structured environment with strict rules, training cylinders, and a clear ethical code: no real doors, no illegal locks.
7. What Is “Locksport” – and How Does It Differ from Professional Lock Picking?
Locksport is the recreational and competitive side of lock picking – similar to chess or speedcubing. Unlike locksmiths or law enforcement, the focus here isn’t on emergency access or time pressure, but on technique, knowledge, and fair play.
8. What Role Do Online Lock Picking Communities Play?
A huge one. Forums like Reddit (“Lockpicking”) or Discord servers offer community, tutorials, and discussions. YouTube channels like @sandman_locksport or @LockFumbler have large followings – always emphasizing responsible use and awareness of legal boundaries.
9. What Are “Challenge Locks” and Why Are They So Popular?
Challenge locks are intentionally modified locks made harder to pick – often built by hobbyists themselves. They encourage deeper understanding of fine mechanics, creativity, and patience. In the community, they’re seen as a technical and rewarding challenge.
10. Is There a Connection Between Lock Picking and Cybersecurity?
Absolutely. Many cybersecurity professionals explore lock picking because physical security is a key part of the overall system (“red teaming”). If you’re protecting IT systems, you should also understand how easily doors – or server cabinets – might be bypassed if the hardware fails.
About the Author
Lars Buchwald has been an integral part of the Multipick team since 2006, where he dedicates his passion and expertise to marketing and graphics. As a trained graphic designer and copywriter, he brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his work, which enables him to convey the messages of the ingenious tools in an appealing and convincing way. With a keen sense for the needs of the target group, he steers Multipick's marketing fortunes. His commitment is characterized by a high degree of sensitivity and the right richer at the right time.
As a native of Bonn, Lars not only has close ties to the region, but has also firmly integrated his passion for marketing spear tools into his professional work. His attachment to the city is reflected in his work and gives his marketing campaigns an authentic, Bonn touch.
Related Articles
Common Myths About Burglary Protection
That only happens to other people …
Lockpicking in the EU
Lockpicking in the EU: Differences in National Laws – and What Really Happens
Locksmith Services – A Good Reputation Opens Doors
"You're honest, aren't you?" – A Question Loaded with Meaning
About Multipick
Multipick was established here in Bonn in 1997 and has had its headquarters and production facilities here on the Rhine ever since.
Why should we leave here? Anyone who has been here before will agree that it is a very beautiful place and that the people are ‘typically Rhineland’, open-minded and friendly. From an early stage, we began to occupy ourselves with a wide variety of entry tools. We tried out lock snappers and core extractors such as the Bell and gathered a wealth of experience with a wide variety of tools. Whether it was a lock pick set or special tools for fire brigades and locksmiths, in the end the door or window had to be opened. In line with the motto, you got the problem and we got the solution.
Many tools, irrespective of hobby or professional, are dispatched from our warehouse to destinations throughout the world.
Opening tool kits for caretakers and locksmiths, pick sets and lock picking accessories for Locksport enthusiasts and Hobbs hooks for specialists to unlock locked safes. There are thousands of different ways to deploy our specialised tools. Our TFG latch plates and key turners allow a closed door to be reopened. QA Pro 2 and our V-Pro core pulling screws can be used to open a locked door. We also offer milling burrs and drill bits for those situations where there really is no other way. Many useful aids such as MICA opening cards, wedges, door latch spatulas, door handle catches and spiral openers, which are all useful tools to help you get the job done. But even if things get a bit complicated, you are in good hands with us. Products such as the Kronos and Artemis electric picks are our top highlights. Anyone who likes to open dimple locks or disc locks will be delighted with the ARES system. For opening windows, we offer you a range of top products from Kipp-Blitz. Favoured by emergency services such as the fire brigade, THW (Federal Agency for Technical Relief) and police. Many of our tools are manufactured in-house. This gives us the liberty to manufacture quickly and in a customer-orientated manner. No lengthy supply chains and subcontractor dependencies. This has a number of advantages both for you and, of course, for our environment. One big advantage is that you get everything from a single source, enabling us to offer you consistent quality. This is also our promise to you, all from a single source, Made in Germany, Made in Bonn - promised.
