Is It Easy to Pick a Lock?
We have all seen locks being picked in spy films and TV shows. It is often depicted as something that can be done in a matter of seconds with only a Kirby grip or paper clip to hand. The reality, as you might expect, is quite a bit different. As a trusted locksmith in Glasgow, I’m often asked how easy it is to pick a lock. The short answer is – it’s not! While lockpicking is a skill that can be learned, it takes A LOT of practice and dedication to master. Even more importantly, most modern locks are specifically designed with advanced security features to prevent this kind of tampering.
The Basics of Lockpicking
Most household locks in Glasgow, and across the UK, use a pin tumbler mechanism. Inside the lock are a series of pins that must be lifted to the correct height to align with the shear line, allowing the lock to turn. Picking a lock involves applying a certain amount of tension while carefully moving each pin into place. It may sound simple, but in reality, it requires patience, specialist tools and a great deal of training. Even experienced locksmiths can find high security locks challenging.
Why Lockpicking Isn’t Easy
There are several reasons why lock picking is far harder than people think
1. Modern Anti-Pick Features
Many locks in Glasgow homes and businesses have anti-pick features such as mushroom or spool pins. This makes them much harder to pick and only a trained locksmith will have the skills needed.
2. Skill & Knowledge
A properly trained locksmith can often arrive at your door, pick the lock and get you back inside within a few minutes. This may make the task look easy, but this is very misleading. Lock picking is not about guesswork or luck; it’s a technical skill using specialist tools which can take years to master.
3. Time
An untrained ‘cowboy’ locksmith will often arrive at your door with a drill to dismantle the lock. They won’t even try to pick it. This is because picking even a standard lock can take much longer than simply forcing entry. Not only could you damage your door and have to pay for a new lock, but you could also spend a lot of money on repairs. Always call a reputable locksmith first to prevent a hefty bill.
Do Burglars Actually Pick Locks?
It’s often thought that most burglars use lock picking to break into homes. Actually, this is rarely the case. Most burglars are opportunists who lack the necessary skills; they want to get in and out as quickly as possible to avoid being caught. Instead, they often use quicker and easier ways, e.g. breaking a window, forcing a door, or exploiting an unlocked door or open window.
Why Are High Security Locks Recommended?
If burglars rarely pick locks, why do high security locks matter? This is because, in addition to being resistant to picking, they also protect against other forced entry methods like lock snapping, bumping and drilling. Burglars often use these quicker, more forceful methods over lock picking and high security locks are specifically designed to withstand these types of attacks. This is why high security locks, installed by a professional locksmith, are one of the best ways to protect your property.
Why Lockpicking Is Very Useful
If you’re locked out of your home or business, a trained locksmith may be able to pick your lock non-destructively (without damaging the lock or the door). This means you can regain access to your property without the added expense of a new lock. However, if you try to pick your own lock or choose a ‘cowboy’ locksmith, there is a fair chance you will cause permanent damage to the lock. That’s why it’s always best to leave lock picking to a professional locksmith.
Liberty Locksmiths is a trusted professional locksmith in Glasgow. We have very high ratings on Google, Yell, Trustpilot and Facebook and can help protect your home with good quality security locks at affordable prices. Get in touch to find out more about our services.
