How to Pick a Deadbolt Using Basic Locksmith Techniques
Published Date: Sep 22, 2025
Ever wondered what makes a deadbolt secure? Understanding how this type of lock works from the inside can be a fascinating hobby. This guide on how to pick a deadbolt is for educational purposes only — think of it as a challenge to practice on a spare lock. Getting locked out is stressful, and in those moments, you might wonder how locksmiths handle the situation. Drawing on years of experience, Sure Lock & Key explains the techniques used to work with one of the most common locks. For now, let’s explore the mechanics behind the deadbolt.
Key Tools and Techniques for Lock Picking for Beginners
Before you can learn how to pick a deadbolt lock, you need to know what you’re working with. Most deadbolts use a pin-tumbler system. Inside the lock’s cylinder are pairs of pins (key pins and driver pins) separated by springs. When you insert the correct key, these pins align along a precise point called the shear line, allowing the cylinder to turn. The goal of picking is to mimic this alignment without the key.
The basic deadbolt lock picking tools make this possible. You’ll need two main items: a tension wrench and a pick. The tension wrench is an L-shaped piece of metal used to apply slight rotational pressure to the cylinder. The pick is a thin tool used to manipulate the pins inside. This combination of tools and a gentle touch is the foundation of lock picking for beginners. However, if you’re locked out of your home, especially in an apartment or condo, calling an apartment locksmith is the smart move to avoid any damage.
Your Guide on How to Pick a Deadbolt Lock Step-by-Step
Ready to see how it works? Take it slow — this is a skill that comes with practice and a good feel for the mechanics. Learning how to pick a deadbolt lock is more about accuracy than speed.
- Apply Light Tension: Insert the tension wrench into the lower part of the keyway and apply gentle, steady pressure in the direction you would turn the key to unlock it. The amount of pressure is important — too much will bind the pins, and too little won’t work.
- Insert the Pick: Slide your pick into the top of the keyway. Gently feel for the pins inside. You should be able to press them down and feel them spring back up.
- Set the Pins: Starting from the back of the lock, use your pick to lift each pin one by one. As you lift a pin to the shear line, you should feel a tiny click or give. Once you feel it, the tension wrench will hold it in place. Move on to the next pin.
- Open the Lock: After you’ve set the last pin, the cylinder will be free to turn. The tension wrench will rotate fully, and the lock will open.
While picking works in some situations, it’s not the only answer. Sure Lock & Key reveals more ways to open a deadbolt lock that might surprise you.
Summing Up
Learning how to pick a deadbolt is an interesting skill that demystifies how locks work. However, it’s a skill best reserved for practice on a spare lock, not for emergencies. In actual lockout situations, forcing a lock open can cause more harm than good.
If a lock is faulty beyond repair, the only option might be learning how to remove a deadbolt lock from a door, a task best handled by an expert. With more than 35 years of experience, Sure Lock & Key is known for a strong work ethic and a real commitment to helping people. We provide quality locksmith services you can depend on, ensuring you get back into your property without any damage.