Becoming a professional locksmith involves serious training, certification exams and gaining gaining field experience.
This demanding career requires special equipment and precise tools such as bump key and manual pick guns to effectively pick locks.
Before you start a job you learn the basics in training classes and only when getting better at what you do you can start an internship in an established locksmith company.
Tools and Equipment
Lock Pick Set
A set of tools used for manipulating pins and springs inside of a lock to open it without the original key.
Tension Wrenches
Tools used to apply tension to the lock plug while picking the lock and to keep the picked pins in place.
Key Extractor
A tool used to remove broken keys or foreign objects from inside the lock.
Plug Spinner
A device used to quickly rotate the plug of a lock after it has been picked in the wrong direction.
Key Cutting Machine
A machine used to cut new keys or duplicate existing ones.
Key Decoder
A tool used to decode the cuts on a key which is very useful for making duplicates and understanding the lock mechanism.
Security Software
For programming electronic locks and keyless entry systems.
Electric Pick Gun
A power tool that quickly vibrates to simulate the action of manually lock picking.
Drill and Drill Bits
Used for drilling into locks in situations where lock picking is not possible or when a lock needs to be destroyed to gain entry.
Scope or Inspection Light
Used for seeing inside a lock mechanism which is very helpful for diagnosing issues and for precision work.
Automotive Lockout Tools
Specialized tools for gaining entry into locked car such as slimjims, air wedges and long reach tools.
Safe Cracking Tools
Specialized tools for opening safes including safe scopes, drill rigs and manipulation tools.
Bolt Cutters
Used for cutting chains, padlocks and other security devices.
Lock Installation Kits
Tools and jigs for installing new locks and door hardware.
Personal Protective Equipment
Including gloves, safety glasses and ear protection for safety during work.
What are the risks of being a locksmith?
Being a locksmith can be risky because of the tools and machines they use that can hurt them if not being careful.
Sometimes the work is in tight or high security places which can be dangerous too. If they accidentally damage a customer property while fixing locks they could be responsible which can lead to legal lawsuit and compensation expenses for the customer .
Locksmiths know a lot about security so they need to be really trustworthy and careful with this information.
Most of the time they have to work at unusual hours or in emergency situations which can be very stressful and tiring.
