How to Pick a Lock with a Bobby Pin? Don’t Panic; Just Follow

So, you’ve locked yourself out again, huh? Instead of calling a pricey locksmith and admitting defeat, why not channel your inner problem-solving skills? Yes, we know, nothing is as agitating as getting locked out of your own home. But isn’t there an ancient solution of lock picking with a humble bobby pin? Sure, it might take a few tries (or a hundred), but think of the satisfaction you will get when you finally hear the lock unlock. If you don’t know how to pick a lock with a bobby pin, fret not! 

Just grab that bobby pin you thought was only good for bad hair days, and get ready to tackle your lock-picking emergency. 

And yes! This is totally legal… as long as it’s your lock. 

Understanding the Lock Mechanisms

First things first! There are numerous types of locks available and used for commercial or residential security. These may include padlocks, keyed padlocks, shrouded shackle padlocks, deadbolts, double cylinder deadbolts, knob locks, mortise locks, rim locks, electronic and smart locks, biometric locks, etc. Several of these can never be unlocked with a bobby pin. 

Here, we are going to talk about only the pin-tumbler locks; the most common type, using pins of varying lengths to prevent the lock from opening without the correct key. However, with the correct technique and a hell loads of patience, you might be able to crack it open. 

How to Pick a Door Lock with a Bobby Pin: Do It Yourself 

To master the skill of lock-picking with a bobby pin, follow the preceding steps carefully. 

First: Prep your Bobby Pin

To prepare your bobby pin: 

1. Take out your bobby pin and pull it apart into a flat metal item. Now, fully bend the U-shaped pin backward to give it a wire-like structure. Once it has turned into a pick, you can remove the rubber present on both ends of the pin using your teeth. 

2. Seek the help of the lock to crook the pin tip and insert it into the lock for at least one cm. Face the flat side upwards and the rest to the left. Now, slightly curve the end of the pin for a few mm. To get the right bend, move it at least 2 or 3 inches to the left. 

3. Bend one end of the pick to form a handle. Fold half of this end back on itself to create a small loop. This loop will make the pick easier to grip and apply pressure with.

4. Bend the bobby pin enough to create a lever. If you do not have pliers, you can use your fingers instead. The lever functions the same as a key, so it can help you move the pins out of your way. Get the bent half off the pin to form a right angle. 

Is pin prep done? Let’s Do It. 

Second: Pin-Pick your Lock

It’s time to visualize how the lock picking works. A lock is made with a barrel (chamber) and pins (metallic cylinders inside the lock). As a lock picker, your job is to push the pins inside your lock with the help of the bobby pin, turning the barrel so that it doesn’t fall back into its original place. Once all the pins are out of your way, the barrel will ultimately turn free and Boom! Your lock will be unlocked. 

Get known to the picking steps: 

1. See the lock’s bottom half? Yes, insert your lever there. Now, get the bent end to the bottom, as low as you can, to get the lever deep inside the barrel.

2. Use the lever like you’d use your key and turn it towards the opening direction. The lever will move just far enough to apply the required pressure (remember, too much pressure can strain the lock). Make sure to hold the lock tight until the process is done. In addition, try losing the pin inside the barrel so that it gets easy for you to move them up and down. 

3. Insert your pick with the bent side facing up and start feeling for the pins. Move the pick up and down to get a sense of the pins’ positions, which are located on the upper half of the keyhole. Gently push some of the pins upward, noticing how they move, and then fall back down. You’ll need to jiggle the pickup up and down to reach all the pins. Some pins might be resistant to movement at this stage, but that’s okay. For now, focus on counting the pins and identifying which ones move easily and which ones are stuck.

Note: The bent end must be pointed upwards for the process to succeed. If it ain’t helping, you might be putting too much pressure or tension on your lever. Just lighten it up and try again.

4. To unlock the mechanism, start by identifying the first seized pin that resists movement. Apply consistent pressure on the lever, then slowly push the pin upward. Continue until you hear a “click,” indicating the pin’s center split has aligned with the barrel, clearing the lock’s path. Repeat this process for the remaining pins. As each pin falls into place, you’ll notice the lever turns slightly easier, signaling the reduction in resistance.

5. With the first pin out of the way, proceed to tackle the remaining seized pins. Interestingly, previously free pins may now resist movement, providing guidance on which pins to focus on next. To continue unlocking, locate the next seized pin, applying gentle pressure on the lever as if turning the lock. Slowly push the pin upward until it clicks into place, then move on to the next one. Repeat this process to diminish the lock’s resistance.

6. Achieving the optimal tension is crucial for successful lock-picking. If you’re struggling, adjust the lever’s pressure. Finding the sweet spot requires finesse, as too much tension seizes the pins, making them immovable. Conversely, insufficient pressure or accidental release allows pins to slide back, forcing you to restart. To find the ideal balance:

• Start with slightly excessive pressure.
• Gradually loosen it as you work.

This approach prevents losing pins and enables you to discover the perfect tension. By refining your touch and adjusting pressure, you’ll master lock-picking.

Mistakes to Avoid While Picking Your Lock

While you now have the clear-cut answer to how to pick a lock with bobby pins, it’s high time to touch the undiscussed part of the process. Yes, we are talking about the mistakes people usually commit while picking their locks, resulting in a time-consuming and ineffective process. Here’s what you must avoid at all costs: 

• Don’t apply too much pressure; excessive force will restrict the movement of pins. Rather, apply gentle pressure.  
• If you don’t feel the pins move up and down, you might be lacking in pressure. Just increase the pressure consistently until you feel the movement. 
• You must not skip the pins as it can cause the lock not to unlock forever. Just lift the pins in a sequential manner. Start from the back and end towards the front. 
• Bobby pins are known to break under stress. So, ensure not to put so much pressure. 
• Pin misalignment can occur with uneven pressure. To ensure the alignment is in the correct order, release the tensions bit by bit and with controlled movement. 
• Do not try to unlock an unsuitable lock with a bobby pin. It’s just a waste of time as these are not meant with the technology the Tumbler ones are. 
• Last but not least, don’t rush through the process. Have some patience. The thing might be a little tricky to get success over, but it’s quite effective when done with proper skill. 

Smart Solutions to Ensure You’re Never Locked Out

There’s no doubt that being locked out is one of the worst experiences of our lives; it’s basically one of the worst. And as many practices as there may be, it’s essential that you follow a smart approach and never fall into such a circumstance. Here are some recommendations which can assist you in avoiding the same: 

• Always keep a spare key in an accessible and safe location. There are multiple discreet spots outside your home’s door. Or, you can choose to provide your key to a neighbor you trust. 
• If money is not a problem, you can always use upgraded locking methods and locks, such as keycards, biometrics, and other systems with codes. These systems entirely eliminate the need for a key and provide extra security. 
• Lock maintenance may not seem essential, but it is. To prevent sudden lockouts, you must regularly lubricate your lock and check for wear and tear. This will help you address the issue before you even experience one. 
• Always have a locksmith’s contact information or card with you. So that if you are unable to help yourself, you can find a professional solution and get effective assistance. 
• Investing in smart locks is an investment; don’t underestimate it. These locks allow you to lock and unlock your gadgets. 

Lastly!

By now, it’s pretty much clear how to pick a locked door with a bobby pin. Just keep in mind the things you should avoid doing during the process. As it may be hectic and time-consuming, it’s best that you follow certain solutions that will keep you out of this situation the next time. Rest assured, if you follow the right technique and put in the proper skills, you’ll be able to unlock the locked door and get into your own home in no time. 

Often Raised Queries!