Lock Picking - Anti-picking Methods

Anti-picking Methods

To prevent picking of locks, numerous methods have been employed throughout history, in addition to locks which must be reset using a master key if they have been tampered with e.g. the Chubb detector lock.

Today, anti-picking methods include the use of side wards which obstruct the key way, and security pins. These are pins which are shaped like a spool, mushroom, or barrel with the effect that they feel as though they have set when in fact they have not. Overcoming these pins involves reverse picking: the process of first setting all pins above the shear line and gradually reducing tension.