The Locksmith’s Toolkit: What Those Mysterious Tools Actually Do

Locksmiths are often viewed as mysterious figures, equipped with an array of strange tools and the magical ability to unlock any door. But have you ever wondered what those tools actually do? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the locksmith’s toolkit and demystify the purpose of each of those mysterious tools. Whether you’re a curious homeowner or aspiring locksmith, read on to discover the secrets behind these essential tools of the trade.

The Key Extractor

Ever found yourself in a panic after breaking a key in a lock? This is where the key extractor comes in. This thin, pointed tool is used to grip and remove broken keys from locks, saving you the hassle and expense of changing the entire lock. It works by inserting the extractor into the keyhole, hooking onto the broken piece of key, and pulling it out. Simple yet effective, the key extractor is a must-have tool for any locksmith.

The Pick Gun

While it may sound like a weapon straight out of a spy movie, the pick gun is a locksmith’s go-to tool for picking locks with ease. It looks like a small, handheld drill and works by inserting needles into the lock and using vibrations to mimic the action of a key turning. This tool is perfect for those tricky locks that require a bit of finesse to unlock, and saves the locksmith from potentially damaging the lock by using force.

The Torsion Wrench

The torsion wrench is a vital component of any locksmith’s toolkit. This tool looks like a miniature ‘L’ shaped bar and is used in tandem with the pick gun or manual lock picking techniques. The locksmith inserts the wrench into the bottom of the keyhole, applying pressure in the direction that the key would turn. This creates tension on the lock’s pins, allowing the locksmith to manipulate them with the pick gun or other tools.

The Plug Spinner

The plug spinner comes in handy when a lock is accidentally picked in the wrong direction, preventing the key from turning. This tool works by rotating the plug (the part of the lock that holds the pins) back to its original position, allowing the key to be turned and the lock to be opened. Advanced locksmiths may even use plug spinners to manipulate multiple pins at once, making the lock picking process even faster and more efficient.

The Tubular Lock Pick

For locks with a circular keyhole, such as those found on vending machines and bike locks, a tubular lock pick is the tool of choice. It resembles a pen with a spiral-like shape at the end, and works by inserting the spiral into the keyhole and using it to push the pins up, similar to how a key would turn the lock. This tool requires a bit of practice and dexterity, but can be a lifesaver when faced with a challenging tubular lock.

The Impressioning Tool

Impressioning is a highly specialized technique used by locksmiths to create a key for a lock that does not have a key or for which the key has been lost. The impressioning tool is a small, pointed metal file that the locksmith uses to make indentations on a blank key, turning it into a working key for the lock. This technique takes patience and skill, but is an invaluable tool for locksmiths faced with unique lock situations.

So the next time you see a locksmith with their mysterious toolkit, you’ll have a better understanding of the purpose behind each of those strange-looking tools. From picking locks to creating new keys, these tools are the key to a locksmith’s success. Hopefully, this article has helped to unlock some of the mystery surrounding the locksmith’s toolkit.

Did you find this article helpful? Share it with your friends and family to spread the knowledge and appreciation for these skilled professionals. And for all your locksmith needs, be sure to call on a trained and qualified locksmith who knows how to use these tools effectively and efficiently.