Lock picking
![A traditional set of pin/tumbler lock lock picks. The two tools on the left are torsion (tension) wrenches. The picks from left to right are: hook pick, half diamond (steep angles), snake rake, half diamond (shallow angles), S-rake pick, double round pick and long double ended pick.](/Images/godic/202501/24/Lockpicking_Tools2732.jpg")
![A deadbolt lock that has been picked, showing that the plug has been turned without the key.](/Images/godic/202501/24/Picked_lock2732.jpg")
![A common set of Skeleton Keys used to open most types of warded padlocks](/Images/godic/202501/24/Padlock_Skeleton_Keys2732.jpg")
![A traditional pickset. From left to right: torsion wrench,](/Images/godic/202501/24/Lockpicks2732.jpg")
Lock picking is the art of unlocking a lock by manipulating the components of the lock device without the original key.
Although lock picking can be associated with criminal intent, it is an essential skill for the legal profession of locksmithing, and is also pursued by law-abiding citizens as a useful skill to learn, or simply as a hobby.