Opening a lock using bobby pins is a technique often depicted in media, and while it requires practice, it's possible for certain types of locks, primarily pin tumbler locks. This method relies on manipulating the internal pins of the lock cylinder while applying slight rotational pressure.
Understanding the Tools
To pick a lock with bobby pins, you'll typically need two pins, each serving a distinct purpose:
| Tool | Purpose | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bobby Pin (Pick) | To manipulate and set the internal lock pins. | Bent and shaped to interact with the lock's tumblers. |
| Bobby Pin (Tension Wrench) | To apply rotational pressure to the lock cylinder. | Bent into an "L" shape to create a lever for torque. |
Preparing Your Bobby Pin Tools
The success of bobby pin lock picking heavily relies on properly preparing your pins.
1. Crafting the Pick
The pick is the tool you'll use to feel for and set the individual pins inside the lock.
- Start with one bobby pin. Unfold it into a straight line.
- To craft your pick, stick the flat end of the pin into the top of the lock and bend it. Stick the pin in about 1 centimetre (0.39 in), then fold the rest the bobby pin until it's flush against the face of the doorknob. This precise bending creates an angle at the tip, which is crucial as you'll use the bent end of the pin to disengage the pins in the lock. This bend allows you to effectively interact with the lock's internal mechanism.
2. Fashioning the Tension Wrench
The tension wrench is vital for applying consistent, light pressure to the lock cylinder, which helps in "setting" the pins as you manipulate them.
- Take your second bobby pin and unfold it into a straight line.
- Bend it into an "L" shape. One end should be long enough to comfortably hold, and the other end should be short enough to fit into the bottom of the keyway and apply torque. You want a firm grip that allows you to apply constant, gentle rotational pressure.
The Lock Picking Process
With your tools prepared, you can begin the process of picking the lock.
1. Insert the Tension Wrench
- Insert the short end of your bobby pin tension wrench into the bottom of the lock's keyway.
- Apply very slight rotational pressure in the direction you would turn the key to open the lock (e.g., clockwise for most doorknobs). Maintain this light, consistent pressure throughout the entire process. This pressure is critical as it allows the pins to "set" once they are properly aligned.
2. Insert the Pick
- Carefully insert your prepared bobby pin pick into the top of the keyway, above the tension wrench.
- Gently slide it past the pins until you feel the back of the lock cylinder.
3. Manipulate the Pins
- While maintaining the light tension, slowly withdraw the pick, feeling for each of the lock's internal pins.
- As you encounter each pin, gently lift it until you feel a slight "click" or a small give in the tension wrench. This indicates that the pin is "set."
- Continue this process for each pin, moving from front to back, or by finding the "binding" pin (the one that feels stiffest under tension).
- Repeat the process, feeling for and setting each pin, sometimes going back over pins you've already set, as they can un-set if too much or too little tension is applied.
4. Turn the Lock
- Once all the pins are successfully set, the lock cylinder will give way under the constant, light pressure from your tension wrench.
- You'll feel the lock cylinder turn slightly, indicating that the lock is open. Apply full rotational pressure with the tension wrench to fully open the lock.
Important Considerations
- Legality: Lock picking can be illegal if done on property you do not own or have permission to access. Always ensure you have the right to pick the lock you are attempting to open.
- Practice: This skill requires significant practice to master the feel for the pins and the right amount of tension.
- Lock Type: This method is primarily effective on standard pin tumbler locks, which are common in many household doors and padlocks. More complex locks with security pins or different mechanisms will be much more challenging or impossible with bobby pins.
