Tools of the Trade

Locksmiths use a wide variety of tools depending on the job and locks that require working.  They also have numerous tools for making keys, locks, electronic locks, and security systems. These tools range from the simple metal lock picks to a wide assortment of different electronics that can be used to aid in their job.  Some of the most common and frequently used tools are;

The Lock Aid Tool.  You see them in the movies sometimes, it looks a bit like a pistol and with a trigger to fit the pins.  It was designed for law enforcement agencies to quickly pick pin tumbler locks. It is one of the types of tools you may see a locksmith use on occasion. It’s mostly an automatic style lock picker that will get the lock open using one of the methods that the model supports. 

Formed End Tweezers are fairly small tools with curved ends for grip. They are commonly made of stainless steel to prevent wear and tear.

The Window Crank allows the locksmith to slip behind window the crank and remove the spring clip to allow access. This is a less used simple tool, but still used when the door proves impossible to get through.

The “Small Pin & Peanut” is used for most small pin tumbler rekeying jobs. Its ease of use and simple design make it quite the popular choice among locksmiths the world over.

Another common tool is the “Clip Zip Door Panel Tool” as some stores call it. It helps you remove car door panels and makes the job a lot easier for the locksmith.  This saves a lot of time, and broken pins on an auto lock job.

The AM700 is for American padlocks. The American 700 series round body lock is one of the most widely used padlocks for industrial and commercial security. This tool is used to pick and open many of those types of locks due to its design. This is argued to be one of the more popular tools used by locksmiths in the USA today.