Here’s one tool that isn’t going to make the majority of lists of essential prepper supplies, but which you should carry anyway: a lock pick set.
It’s just what it sounds like, and your bug out bag or bench should contain at least one set along with your other vital tools.
It might seem like a niche tool set but there’s actually a great deal of practicality that a lock pick set can offer. Here’s what to know.
What a Lock Pick Set Contains (and How It Works)
Basically, a lock pick set contains a bunch of tools, including picks and tensioners, that are intended to help a user manipulate a lock without the original key.
While all locks are different, many keyed locks use a set of internal pin tumblers; a corresponding key aligns the tumblers and enables the lock to be operated.
Most lock pick sets contain a series of comb picks along with tension wrenches; the comb picks are used to manipulate the key and driver pins, and the tension wrenches are used to apply such torque to the lock such as to hold the tumbler pins in the appropriate position.
As a result, most sets contain both comb picks and tension wrenches, although some other sets contain a series of “skeleton” keys or auto jigglers that can be widely used across a variety of different lock types.
Practical Uses for a Lock Pick Set
While lock picking is generally associated with nefarious activities and criminal intent (and in some places owning lock picks is illegal), there are plenty of good, legitimate reasons to have a lock pick set.
For one, a set of lock picks and tension wrenches is an essential part of a locksmith’s toolkit. That much is self-explanatory.
But even for others, and those outside the trade, a lock pick set can help prevent you from getting locked out of your own home, and a set of picks can help you access locks for which you’ve lost the key.
An Alternative to a Lock Pick Set
Not sure you want to shell out the cash for – or even really learn how to use – a legitimate lock pick set?
There is a much simpler, more affordable, and less confusing alternative – a lock pick gun.
Check out something along the lines of the “EZ Lock Pick Gun” sold online at BudK. It’s easy to stash and carry and considerably easier to use (and more convenient) than most other lock pick sets.
Where to Explore Lock Pick Sets (and More)
You already know where to start your search for an all-in-one lock pick set that will help prevent you from ever getting locked out again – BudK.
Visit their website and look through their lock picking essentials and then bookmark their page. They sell way too much other cool stuff (and generally prepper supplies) for you to pass by. Round out your collection with some of what they offer today.
