Best Lock Picks for All Levels
When choosing lock picks, several factors ensure you're making the right choice:
The quality of the steel in your lock picks is essential. High-quality steel ensures longevity and precision, providing a better experience as you practice.
Different locks require different pick profiles. A versatile pick set will have various profiles, increasing your chances of success when picking locks.
In addition to the picks themselves, you’ll need quality turning tools (tension wrenches). These apply the necessary force to the lock, allowing the picks to do their work.
Price is an important factor when starting out. Luckily, you don’t need to break the bank to get high-quality tools. We recommend options that are cost-effective without sacrificing quality.
Below are our top picks for the best beginner lock picks. Some are perfect for those who aren't sure if they want to pick locks, but are still curious. Some are great for those ready to jump right in, and some are for people who have already starting picking locks, but are looking for more advanced sets.
You get the 3 best tools to get started... the holy trinity of picking. A short hook, a wave rake, and a .040" double-ended turning tool. These are straight out of the Genesis set, so (unlike most inexpensive kits) are made of top-quality steel. You also get a clear acrylic lock. The FNG is not only great for beginners, but also makes the perfect gift for friends with whom you want to share your new hobby.
This bundle inclues the Genesis Lock Pick set, The best entry level pick set and case on the market, along with a repinnable practice lock. These items alone will be able to take you well into the intermediate level of lock sport.
The Genesis Pick Set is hands down the best introductory pick set on the market today. It combines the four most useful pick profiles with the highest quality turning tools and package them in the most well thought out carrying case on the market. Whether at your desk or in the field, this kit will serve you well into the intermediate/advanced level.
Introducing the Echelon Lock Pick Set, perfect set for any intermediate lock picker. Tackle those narrower keyways and increase your maneuverability when picking with the slim versions of the profiles you have from the Genesis set. Expand your picking capabilities beyond standard pin tumbler locks to dimple and tubular locks with the included specialty picks and turning tools. Contain your arsenal of picks in the new custom trifold Garrison case, a sleek and silent case that doubles as a stand for your picks. This new trifold Garrison case was specifically designed to allow you to contain both the Echelon tools as well as your original Genesis set, so all your picks are in one place.
This set of 5 custom hooks, including the famous "McTickler" profile, is designed specifically for advanced pickers. Included in this set is 6 specially designed adaptive turning tools constructed to give you the most rock solid top of keyway tension on the market. The kit comes in a Stealth Gray Tradecraft case with a custom McNally patch.
Start with a beginner lock pick set like the FNG or Genesis sets. Practice on simple locks and use available online resources, such as Covert Instruments’ tutorials.
The FNG Lock Pick Set and the Learn Lockpicking Bundle are highly recommended for anyone just starting out.
The Echelon set offers a more advanced selection of picks, ideal for lock pickers with experience, while the Reaper set is more comprehensive for those looking for a high-end, professional solution.
Covert Instruments focuses on high-quality materials, precision engineering, and ergonomic designs to ensure that both beginners and experienced lock pickers have the best tools available.
Laws vary by location. In many places, it's legal to own lock picks as long as they’re not used for illegal purposes. Always check your local regulations.
Yes, many lock pick sets, such as the Echelon or Reaper sets, offer versatile tools that work on a wide range of locks. However, certain specialized picks may be more suited to specific types of locks.
Start with simple locks and gradually work your way to more complex mechanisms. Use a variety of tools from sets like the FNG and Genesis to develop your skills.
With proper care, high-quality lock picks should last for a long time. However, if you notice any signs of wear, such as bending or cracks, it may be time to replace them.