How to Pick a Kwikset Lock

Learning how to pick a Kwikset lock can be a useful skill for any locksmith or home security enthusiast. Whether you’re trying to get into a locked area in your house or opening someone else’s, this guide will provide you with the necessary steps to successful picking. Following these instructions can be done easily with a few simple tools and a bit of patience.

Tools Needed to Pick Kwikset Locks

Before you can get picking, you’ll need to gather some supplies. Since Kwikset locks use pin tumblers, you’ll need a pick set that includes a tension wrench and several picks. Look for a set with interchangeable picks, so you can make sure you get ones with varying widths and shapes. You can also buy extra picks in case you have issues with the ones included in your set.

How to Pick a Kwikset Lock

Step 1: Insert your tension wrench into the bottom of the lock. Carefully apply some pressure to the wrench, making sure to not put too much pressure that could cause it to break. Push the latch inward to ensure the pins are all aligned.

Step 2: Insert your pick into the lock. Slowly and steadily begin to turn the pick around, feeling for the pins inside. You should make sure you’re not putting too much pressure on the tool to avoid damaging the lock.

Step 3: Know when to apply tension. As you feel the pins inside begin to move, gradually apply more pressure to the tension wrench. This will help the pins to move more smoothly, and makes sure they don’t fall back into their original position.

Step 4: Keep picking. Keep going until you reach the sweet spot and the door pops open. The sweet spot is the moment when all the pins align correctly, allowing the tension wrench to turn the cylinder and unlock the door. If you don’t reach the sweet spot right away, don’t worry—it takes some trial and error. Just be patient and keep picking.

Tips for Picking Kwikset Locks

  • When picking, use a light touch to avoid breaking the pins inside the lock.

  • Make sure to use the right tension on the wrench—not too much, not too little.

  • If your pick becomes stuck, carefully remove it and try again.

  • If you’re too rough with the lock, it can become jammed.

Now that you know how to pick a Kwikset lock, you can start experimenting with different locks and techniques. As with anything, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. The more you with different kinds of locks, the better you’ll become!