12 Essential Tools That Every Locksmith Needs

Aside from picking and installing locks, locksmiths are also called upon to repair or replace damaged locks, create duplicate or master keys and assess and improve security systems. These locks may be within the home or for larger organisations, from doors and windows to cars and storage. To ensure the job is done thoroughly and accurately, here are the 12 locksmith tools that every locksmith needs. 

Toolbox 

A toolbox is essential for both containing and protecting all pieces of equipment needed on the job. Ideally the toolbox should be lightweight and sturdy. It should have heavy-duty latches and handles to carry a large capacity of tools and keep them secure. It’s also worth considering a rust-resistant toolbox so that tools will be protected in all weather conditions. 

Beginner’s Lock Pick Set 

A standard beginner’s lock pick set includes the tools needed to open doors where the lock itself has become stuck, or in instances where the key for the lock has been lost or damaged. The ideal set will include a basic hook pick alongside a side hook tool, side rake tools and a diamond pick. 

Tweezers 

Specialist locksmith tweezers are an essential tool. Formed-end tweezers or lock pin tumbler tweezers can be used to pick up and handle small and fine pins within the lock, while providing a firm grip. 

Handheld Scope 

A handheld lock scope should include high-dimensional optical glass and a strong light beam in order for locksmith’s to be able to read wafers and see clearly, no matter the lighting conditions in the environment they’re working in. Because the majority of locks are presented in small and enclosed spaces, a scope provides a magnified view for locksmiths so that they can work safely and accurately. 

Drill Bit Extractors 

Particularly essential for locksmiths working on jobs with safes and vaults that require a lot of drilling, a drill bit extractor is essential for removing and obtaining broken drill bits. Broken tools can disrupt an entire working day which costs both money and time, so it’s important to have back-up tools such as this one to help retrieve damaged drill bits.  

Broken Key Extractor Set 

A broken key extractor set consists of the tools and accessories needed to remove and extract broken keys from key holes, which are generally too small for fingers to be able to reach inside. The extractor tools can also be used to remove pieces of debris or shrapnel that have become jammed inside the keyhole. 

A Key Decoder 

Key decoders, made from either metal or plastic, are cards that help provide an answer as to which pin depth to use on a variety of different keys. Key decoders provide measures for Kwikset, Weslock, Weiser, Schlage and Master keys. 

Padlock Shims 

Super useful for locksmiths, padlock shims are tools that take apart padlocks, by retracting the spring-loaded catch that restricts the lock’s shackle. Padlock shims are used when the key to a padlock has been lost or damaged. 

Key Cutter and Duplicator Machine

Machines for cutting and duplicating keys are vital for locksmiths, as a large proportion of their work consists of replacing lost or damaged keys. There are a variety of different machines available to cut a range of different keys such as barrel, auto, standard cut and dimple keys, as well as single laser machines that can cut multiple different types alone.

  Auto Jigglers 

Auto jigglers are specialist locksmith lock picks generally used on car locks. The jiggler has a variety of different patterns and is used to manipulate the lock open – essential when car owners have lost their car key or when the key isn’t working due to damages.  

  Gloves and Eye Protection 

Both gloves and eye protection are essential to ensure locksmiths are kept safe while working. Safety gloves should be worn to protect the hands, helping to avoid splinters from entering the skin and cuts from occurring. Being a locksmith entails far more than just switching around keys and locks, and often involves cutting and drilling metal that causes sparks and debris to fly. Because of this, it’s crucial that locksmiths keep eye protection on them at all times. 

  Slim-Jim Set 

Slim-jim tool sets are most often used on vehicles. They open the locks when keys have been lost or have accidentally been locked inside. Sets usually include a wide variety of tools as all locks are different depending on the make and model of the car – common tools included are grabbing devices, non-marring wedges, long reach tools and high-grade pump wedges. 

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