Picking a lock with a bobby pin is a classic DIY method, often requiring just two modified bobby pins: one for tension and one for picking the pins inside the lock cylinder.
Understanding the Basics
Standard pin tumbler locks work by aligning a series of pins to create a clear path for the key to turn the cylinder. When picking, you're essentially replicating the function of the key by setting these pins manually while applying slight rotational tension to the cylinder.
What You Need
To attempt picking a lock with bobby pins, you'll need:
- Two Bobby Pins: One for tension, one for picking.
- Pliers (Optional): To bend the bobby pins into the necessary shapes.
| Tool | Purpose | How to Prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Tension Wrench | Apply rotational pressure to the cylinder | Bend one bobby pin into an 'L' shape or similar angle. |
| Pick | Manipulate and lift the internal pins | Straighten the other bobby pin completely. One end might need a slight bend. |
Step-by-Step Guide
This method focuses on feeling and setting each pin individually:
- Create Your Tools: Bend one bobby pin into a tension wrench. Straighten the other one to use as your pick.
- Insert the Tension Wrench: Place the bent bobby pin (tension wrench) into the bottom part of the keyhole, where the key's teeth would normally push down. Apply a slight, consistent rotational pressure in the direction the key would turn to unlock it. This pressure is crucial for "setting" the pins.
- Insert the Pick: As per the reference provided, Slide the straightened bobby pin into the upper part of the keyhole above the tension wrench.
- Feel for Pins: Using this pick, push up on the pins inside the lock one at a time. The reference suggests starting from the back and working your way to the front, though some pickers prefer starting from the front.
- Set Each Pin: While maintaining slight tension with the wrench, gently lift each pin with the pick until you feel or hear a small click. This click indicates that the pin has been lifted to the correct height and caught on the "shear line" by the tension you're applying.
- Practical Insight: If a pin feels springy and doesn't click when lifted slightly, it's likely not binding yet. If a pin feels solid or resistant, it's likely binding and needs to be lifted.
- Repeat and Adjust Tension: Move through all the pins, setting each one. You may need to adjust the amount of tension slightly as you work, finding the right balance – too much tension will bind all the pins, too little won't set them.
- Open the Lock: Once all the pins are set at the shear line, the cylinder should turn freely, and the lock will open.
Picking locks, even with simple tools like bobby pins, requires practice and developing a feel for the internal mechanisms.
