Professional locksmiths use a specialized suite of tools ranging from precision hand tools to advanced computerized diagnostic equipment. Their toolkits are specifically designed to manipulate, repair, or bypass locking mechanisms without causing damage.
Essential Hand Tools
If you were looking to pull in these kinds of £60-100K salaries, you would need to work tens of hours per week. Our estimates suggest you would need to work around 80+ hours per week to bring in that kind of income if your skills top out at what we teach during a 3-to-5-day training course for locksmiths.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read) WD40 is not recommended for use with locks. WD40 actually removes the natural lubricant in the lock, often making issues worse. Keytek recommends using a specific lock lubricant or graphite powder Our top recommendation is 3-IN-ONE Lock Dry Lube.
The Top 5 Locksmith Tools
Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is a Teflon-based lubricant that dries inside the lock to leave behind a non-stick, water-repellent film on all the surfaces. Since it's dry, it doesn't attract dust or dirt.
The individual possessing the tools must also have criminal intent. In other words, the individual must have the criminal intent to commit a burglary with the tools or instruments. In general, an individual simply possessing lockpicks themselves would not be considered illegal.
The best lock lubricants are dry lubricants (like PTFE or graphite) or Teflon-based wet lubricants. Locksmiths strongly advise against using regular household oil or standard WD-40, as they attract dirt and will eventually gum up the lock mechanism.
The ideal way to fix a seized lock is to use a lubricant. WD-40 offers several solutions to maintain your locks: WD-40 Multifunctional Product, WD-40 Specialist Locks Lubricant or WD-40 Specialist PTFE Dry Lubricant. Each of them has its advantages and can therefore meet your lock maintenance needs.
Some of the top door lock lubricant options are:
Yes, there is a shortage of Locksmiths because the pay is abysmal, and to say that it's easier on the body than other trades is not accurate at all. Matthew feel free to get in contact with us to discuss if you would like more information.
Certain lock varieties force locksmiths to risk damage during opening procedures, including digital vault systems, mechanical combination safes, and fingerprint-activated locks. These security devices demand specialized equipment or advanced opening techniques that standard locksmith tools cannot handle.
Being a locksmith isn't necessarily hard if you have a mechanical mind, but it requires patience, excellent hand-eye coordination, and continuous learning. While basic key-cutting is easy to learn, mastering complex electronic security, automotive transponders, and safe manipulation takes years of hands-on training.
Locksmiths rely on specialized drill bits to manipulate locking mechanisms, extract broken keys, drill out shear lines, and bypass hardened steel hardplates in safes. The right bit prevents bit walking and equipment damage.
Teflon Dry Lubricant
Teflon-based dry lubricant is preferred by some locksmiths over other options. It's a great option because, as well as lubricating your lock, it repels water and dust. Meaning that once you fix a lock with this type of lubricant, you can expect the lock to be in good shape for a long time.
All-Weather Performance: Unlike oil-based lubricants, graphite powder performs consistently in extreme temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor locks. Easy to Apply: Simply puff a small amount of graphite powder into the keyhole or onto the key and work it into the lock mechanism.
Isopropyl alcohol is the most accessible and inexpensive method for defrosting a frozen lock or door. When poured over the lock or door, the door should defrost quickly. Also, the alcohol will rid the lock of any excess moisture.
Yes, you can use Vaseline instead of WD-40 if you need a quick substitute. However, keep in mind Vaseline may not work for all applications, including inside locks. While it can work great on door hinges, it may be too sticky for locks and end up attracting dust and dirt particles—which can cause damage to your lock.
For exterior locks, graphite is preferred, as classic WD-40 can gum up lock mechanisms over time. However, professional locksmiths recommend using a dry PTFE or silicone-based spray instead, as graphite can clump up in wet weather and WD-40 acts as a cleaner rather than a true long-term lubricant.
To fix a door lock that is hard to turn, apply a dry, lock-specific lubricant (like graphite powder or PTFE spray) into the keyway and work your key in and out. If lubrication fails, the issue is likely door misalignment; tighten loose hinge screws or adjust the strike plate.
Bump keys are legal to own for licensed locksmiths, security professionals, and hobbyists in most regions. However, possession with criminal intent is illegal.
Start from the back and work your way to the front. Set the Pins: As you lift each pin with the pick, maintain slight pressure on the tension wrench. The pins must be lifted to the shear line, allowing the plug to rotate slightly. Turn the Lock: Once all pins are set to the shear line, the lock should turn and open.
Yes. He practiced for 15 years as a business litigator and attorney in the Washington, D.C. area, which is how he came up with the name. He retired from practicing law to focus on his security consulting career and YouTube channel.