Basic of Lockpicking: How to Make Your Own Lockpicking Set from Udemy

In this course you will learn how to successfully make a custom-made lockpicking set. No previous knowledge about lock picking is required. However, to really benefit from this class you will need some basic tools.

In general, we will start by making a tension wrench first. I will show you exactly which tools we will use and what materials are necessary for this project. The second part will be about the lock pick itself. We will make a custom-made hook lock pick. Here, we will also go through the required materials and tools. In both videos I will show you in detail how to make each tool, you just need to follow the steps.

At the end, I will demonstrate to you that our newly made lockpicking tools are working nicely when I pick a lock.

Overall, this class covers all the important aspects of lockpicking. If you make it till the end of this class you will be set to make any lock pick shape you want. As an extra, feel free to check out my other class on how to make to pick your first lock.

So, don't waste any time and join me in this exciting course.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

Why Make Your Own Lockpicking Set?

Why not buy a commercial set?

The Tension Wrench and The Hook

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a hands-on approach to learning lockpicking, which can be a rewarding and engaging hobby for those who enjoy tinkering and problem-solving

Focuses on creating functional tools, which offers a deeper understanding of how locks work compared to simply using pre-made lockpicking sets

Starts with the basics of making a tension wrench and hook pick, which builds a strong foundation for more advanced lockpicking techniques

Involves making your own lockpicking tools, which reinforces learning through practical application and experimentation

Explores the vulnerabilities of locks, which can raise awareness about security best practices and the importance of robust security measures

Teaches skills that may be against the law in certain jurisdictions, so learners should be aware of and comply with local regulations regarding lockpicking

Reviews summary

Hands-on guide to making lockpicks

According to learners, this course offers a positive and accessible entry into crafting your own lockpicking tools. Students frequently praise the clear, step-by-step instructions provided by the instructor for making a tension wrench and a hook pick from common materials. Many found the process surprisingly simple and effective, reporting that the homemade tools worked successfully as demonstrated in the course. This DIY approach is highlighted as an excellent and inexpensive way to begin exploring lockpicking through the craft of tool creation. However, some reviewers point out the course's limited scope, focusing primarily on the making aspect rather than teaching extensive lock picking techniques or covering a wider variety of tools. It's also noted that learners must supply their own basic tools and materials.

Need to source basic materials and tools yourself.

"Be prepared to gather some scrap metal and basic hand tools before starting."

"You'll need access to files and other simple tools to complete the projects."

"The course assumes you have some basic materials lying around or can get them easily."

Accessible for those with no prior lockpicking experience.

"Perfect for absolute beginners like me who were curious about how tools are made."

"You don't need any lockpicking knowledge to start this class."

"Great starting point if you're just getting into the hobby."

Successfully made tools function as intended.

"I made the tools and was actually able to pick a lock with them as shown!"

"Tested the homemade tools, and they worked surprisingly well."

"Satisfying to see the tools I made actually function."

Teaches crafting basic lockpicking tools effectively.

"The step-by-step instructions for making the tension wrench and pick were incredibly clear."

"I was able to follow along easily and successfully create my own set."

"Focuses well on the process of making the tools, which is exactly what I wanted."

More about tool making than actual picking techniques.

"While it shows the tools working, I wish there was more detail on *how* to pick locks."

"The course focuses almost entirely on making the tools, not on the skill of picking."

"If you want to learn advanced picking techniques, this isn't the course for that."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Basic of Lockpicking: How to Make Your Own Lockpicking Set with these activities:

Practice Metalworking Techniques

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Refamiliarize yourself with basic metalworking skills to make the process of creating your lockpicking set smoother and more efficient.

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Watch videos on metal filing and shaping techniques.
Practice filing scrap metal to achieve desired shapes.
Experiment with bending metal using pliers and other tools.

Read 'The Complete Guide to Lock Picking'

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Gain a broader understanding of lockpicking principles and techniques to enhance your ability to design and use your homemade tools effectively.

View Complete Guide to Lock Picking on Amazon

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Read the chapters on lock mechanisms and picking techniques.
Take notes on different lock types and their vulnerabilities.
Compare the book's techniques with the course's tool-making approach.

Practice Picking Different Locks

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Improve your lockpicking skills by practicing on a variety of locks with different mechanisms and security features.

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Gather a collection of different types of locks (padlocks, deadbolts, etc.).
Practice picking each lock using the tools you made in the course.
Analyze the challenges presented by each lock and adjust your technique accordingly.

Three other activities

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Design a Custom Lock Pick

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Apply your knowledge from the course to design a lock pick tailored to a specific lock or picking style, pushing your understanding beyond the basic hook design.

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Research different lock pick designs and their applications.
Sketch your custom lock pick design, considering ergonomics and functionality.
Create a prototype of your design using the techniques learned in the course.
Test your custom lock pick on various locks and refine your design.

Document Your Lockpicking Journey

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Solidify your learning by creating a blog, video series, or written guide documenting your experiences making and using your lockpicking set.

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Choose a platform for documenting your journey (blog, video, etc.).
Document each step of the tool-making process with photos or videos.
Share your experiences using the tools and any challenges you faced.
Publish your content and engage with other lockpicking enthusiasts.

Study 'Practical Lock Picking: A Physical Penetration Tester's Training Manual'

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Deepen your understanding of lockpicking from a security perspective, learning about advanced techniques and vulnerabilities.

View Keys to the Kingdom on Amazon

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Read the chapters on advanced lock picking techniques.
Study the sections on security vulnerabilities and countermeasures.
Consider how the book's content relates to the tools you created in the course.

Career center

Learners who complete Basic of Lockpicking: How to Make Your Own Lockpicking Set will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Locksmith

A locksmith specializes in locks and security systems, installing, repairing, and adjusting locks in everything from homes to vehicles and commercial buildings. For a locksmith, understanding the nuances of lock mechanisms is crucial, and this course provides a practical introduction to manipulating and understanding those mechanisms through the creation of lockpicking tools. Knowing how to make a lockpicking set provides insight into the inner workings of locks, which supports their ability to install, repair, and maintain locking systems effectively. This course may be particularly useful, because it offers an opportunity to learn through hands-on construction of tools, offering a unique perspective on a locksmith's craft.

See salaries and explore the career path for Locksmith

Security Engineer

A security engineer designs, implements, and manages security systems and infrastructure. Their role often involves assessing vulnerabilities, developing security architectures, and ensuring compliance with security standards. Security engineers typically need to hold a Master's degree or PhD. For a security engineer, this course may be helpful in developing a deeper understanding of physical security systems. Learning how to make lockpicking tools provides insights into potential weaknesses in physical security, which may inform recommendations for designing stronger security measures. The course's practical approach may be most useful, particularly for those focused on physical infrastructure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Physical Security Specialist

A physical security specialist designs, implements, and manages security measures to protect assets, facilities, and personnel. This role often involves assessing vulnerabilities, implementing access control systems, and developing security protocols. This course may be helpful to a physical security specialist, providing them with a deeper understanding of lock mechanisms and potential vulnerabilities. Learning how to make lockpicking tools provides insights into how locks can be compromised, informing strategies for enhancing physical security. This course's hands-on approach may be most relevant to a physical security specialist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physical Security Specialist

Security Consultant

A security consultant assesses vulnerabilities in systems and advises clients on improving their security posture, which may involve conducting penetration tests, evaluating physical security, and recommending security upgrades. This course may be useful to a security consultant, giving them practical knowledge to assess physical security vulnerabilities. Understanding how locks can be manipulated helps the security consultant identify weaknesses and recommend stronger security measures. Developing the skills to create lockpicking tools, as taught in the course, may be most useful to a security consultant by providing a tactical understanding of vulnerabilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

Corporate Security Officer

A corporate security officer is responsible for the safety and security of a company's employees, assets, and facilities. Their duties often include access control, surveillance, and emergency response planning. This course may be useful to a corporate security officer, providing them with a deeper understanding of potential access vulnerabilities. Learning how to make lockpicking tools provides insights into how unauthorized access can occur, which may inform their strategies for enhancing security protocols and implementing more robust security measures. This course's practical focus may be most beneficial.

See salaries and explore the career path for Corporate Security Officer

Security System Installer

A security system installer sets up and maintains security equipment like alarms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems. They ensure these systems are functioning correctly and provide training to users. This course may be useful to security system installers, enhancing their knowledge of lock mechanisms, which often integrate with electronic security systems. Learning how to make lockpicking tools can inform their installation process. This course would be most useful by informing an installer's understanding of the underlying vulnerabilities present in security solutions.

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Building Superintendent

A building superintendent oversees the maintenance and operation of a residential or commercial building. Their responsibilities include managing repairs, ensuring security, and addressing tenant issues. This course may be helpful to a building superintendent by providing them with a deeper understanding of lock mechanisms and security. Learning how to make lockpicking tools can inform their security maintenance and inform their approach to physical security. This course would be most useful in cases related to lock maintenance and security assessments.

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Museum Security Guard

A museum security guard protects artwork, artifacts, and museum property from theft and damage. They monitor surveillance systems, conduct patrols, and respond to security incidents. This course may be helpful to a museum security guard, providing them with a deeper understanding of physical security vulnerabilities. Learning about lockpicking may provide insights into how unauthorized access can occur, which would enhance their ability to prevent theft and protect museum assets. This course is most applicable for securing physical spaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum Security Guard

Forensic Technician

A forensic technician assists in collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes, often specializing in areas like ballistics, DNA, or digital forensics. While this course on lockpicking may not directly address a forensic technician's primary tasks, it could provide valuable insights into how criminals gain access to crime scenes. Understanding lock mechanisms and how they can be manipulated can help a forensic technician better interpret evidence related to forced entry. This course's hands-on approach may be most relevant for understanding the physical aspects of crime scenes.

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Private Investigator

A private investigator conducts investigations for individuals, businesses, or attorneys. Their work may involve surveillance, background checks, and gathering evidence. This course may be helpful to a private investigator by providing practical skills relevant to accessing secured areas. Understanding how to create lockpicking tools may be valuable in situations where gaining access to information or property is necessary. This course may be most pertinent when physical access is part of an investigation.

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Border Patrol Agent

A border patrol agent secures the boundaries of a country, preventing illegal entry and trafficking. They patrol borders, conduct inspections, and apprehend individuals violating immigration laws. While lockpicking may seem tangential, this course may be helpful to border patrol agents by providing insights into how individuals might attempt to bypass physical security measures. Understanding lock mechanisms and how they can be manipulated can be valuable in assessing potential vulnerabilities in border security. The course's focus on making lockpicking tools may provide practical knowledge.

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Loss Prevention Specialist

A loss prevention specialist works to reduce theft and fraud in retail or other environments. They analyze data, conduct investigations, and implement security measures to minimize losses. This course may be useful to a loss prevention specialist, enhancing their understanding of physical security vulnerabilities. Learning about lockpicking provides insights into how unauthorized access can occur, enabling them to develop more effective loss prevention strategies. This course may be most applicable for understanding physical breaches of security.

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Intelligence Analyst

An intelligence analyst gathers and analyzes information to assess threats and provide actionable intelligence to decision-makers. This role requires critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to connect seemingly unrelated pieces of information. This course may be useful to an intelligence analyst by providing practical knowledge of physical security vulnerabilities. Understanding how locks can be compromised can be valuable in assessing security risks and developing effective countermeasures. This course may be most helpful by providing a hands-on perspective to understanding security threats.

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Vehicle Recovery Specialist

A vehicle recovery specialist locates and retrieves stolen or repossessed vehicles. This typically involves using investigative techniques and specialized equipment to track down vehicles. This course may be useful to vehicle recovery specialists, providing them with insights into vehicle security systems. Understanding how locks and security mechanisms can be bypassed may give them a better understanding of how to recover a vehicle. This course's hands-on approach may be most applicable in cases where the vehicle has been physically secured.

See salaries and explore the career path for Vehicle Recovery Specialist

Collections Specialist

A collections specialist pursues overdue payments on behalf of businesses or lending institutions. This role involves locating debtors, negotiating payment plans, and potentially reclaiming assets. This course does not directly apply to the role of collections specialist, as payment recovery rarely involves lockpicking. Therefore, it would be helpful to find an alternative career path. This course may be most applicable in cases where physical access is part of the collections process, which is rare.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Basic of Lockpicking: How to Make Your Own Lockpicking Set.

Keys to the Kingdom

Save

Delves into the practical aspects of lock picking from a security perspective. It covers advanced techniques, security vulnerabilities, and countermeasures. While the course teaches you how to make tools, this book provides a deeper understanding of how those tools are used in real-world scenarios. It is particularly useful for those interested in physical security and penetration testing.

Keys to the Kingdom

Paperback

Keys to the Kingdom: Impressioning, Privilege...

Kindle Edition

The Complete Guide To Lock Picking

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of lock picking techniques, tools, and security principles. It offers a deeper understanding of how locks work and how they can be bypassed. While the course focuses on making your own tools, this book provides valuable context and expands on the theory behind lock picking. It useful reference for understanding the vulnerabilities you're exploiting.

Complete Guide to Lock Picking

Paperback

Basic of Lockpicking

How to Make Your Own Lockpicking Set

What's inside

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Hands-on guide to making lockpicks

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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