Are you locked out of your house and need to get in quickly? Picking a Kwikset deadbolt lock is easier than you may think. With the right tools and techniques, you can unlock your door without causing any damage.
How to pick a Kwikset deadbolt lock can be a handy skill to have, especially in situations where you’ve misplaced your keys or inadvertently locked yourself out. While it’s important to note that picking locks should only be done on locks that you own or have explicit permission to work on, understanding the general principles can be both educational and practical.
In this guide, we will explain the essential tools you’ll need, the methodology behind the lock-picking process, and step-by-step instructions for successfully picking a Kwikset deadbolt lock.
What Will You Need?
Before attempting to pick a Kwikset deadbolt lock, you’ll need to gather the following tools:
- A Tension Wrench: This tool will be used to apply torque or pressure on the lock’s cylinder.
- A Pick: You can use either a traditional pin tumbler pick or a rake for this process.
- Lubricant: If the lock is stiff or difficult to work with, you can use a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40.
Once you have these tools, you’re ready to begin the lock-picking process.
10 Easy Steps on How to Pick a Kwikset Deadbolt Lock
Step 1. Insert the Tension Wrench:
Start by inserting the tension wrench into the bottom part of the keyhole. This tool is crucial as it helps to apply the necessary amount of torque to the lock’s cylinder. Once it is inserted, gently turn the tension wrench in the same direction that you would turn the key to open the lock. Be careful not to apply too much pressure; too much torque can warp the lock or break your tools.
It’s a good idea to practice finding the right balance between too much and too little pressure before attempting to pick the lock.
Step 2. Insert the Pick:
Next, take your pick and insert it into the top part of the keyhole above the tension wrench. If you’re using a traditional pin tumbler pick, begin at the back of the lock and work your way to the front. Slowly maneuver the pick upward and feel for the individual pins inside the lock. If you’re using a rake, insert it fully and then draw it out repeatedly in a slight jiggling motion. This helps to push the pins toward the shear line.
Step 3. Feel for the Pins:
While maintaining light pressure on the tension wrench, use your pick to gently lift each pin one by one. You’ll feel a slight resistance when the pick makes contact with a pin. Apply a gentle upward pressure to move the pin within the lock cylinder. As the pins align with the shear line, you should feel a subtle give in the tension wrench, indicating that a pin has been set correctly.
Step 4. Set the Pins:
Continue to lift each pin individually while maintaining consistent torque with the tension wrench. As each pin sets at the shear line, you’ll notice less resistance and the cylinder might turn slightly. It’s essential to remain patient during this step, as releasing pressure or over-picking can cause you to start the process over.
Step 5. Listen for Clicks:
As you manipulate the pins with your pick, pay close attention to any subtle clicking sounds. These clicks can be an auditory cue that a pin has set correctly at the shear line. Each pin might produce a soft click as it sets, providing you with helpful feedback throughout the process. Make sure to maintain steady pressure on the tension wrench while you continue lifting and setting the remaining pins.
Step 6. Continue with the Remaining Pins:
Proceed to the next pin and repeat the process of lifting it with your pick. Continue applying light pressure with your tension wrench and lifting each pin until all pins are set correctly at the shear line. You may need to adjust the position of the pick to effectively reach and lift each pin in the lock. Patience is key here; take your time to feel each pin move and listen for auditory cues that they are set.
Step 7. Adjust Torque if Necessary:
If you find that the pins are not setting or that the tension wrench is slipping, you may need to adjust the amount of torque you are applying. Slightly increase or decrease the pressure with the tension wrench to find the sweet spot where the pins move smoothly. Too much torque can cause the pins to bind, while too little will not hold the pins in place.
Step 8. Test the Cylinder:
After you believe all the pins are set, gently increase the pressure on the tension wrench and try to turn the lock cylinder as you would with a key. If the cylinder rotates, you have successfully picked the lock. If it does not turn, the chances are that one or more pins are not set correctly. You may need to release the tension and start again or simply re-adjust the individual pins as needed.
Step 9. Practice Patience:
Lock-picking is a skill that requires patience and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you’re unsuccessful on your first few attempts. Take your time and continue practicing to improve your technique. Each lock has its quirks, and becoming proficient at picking a Kwikset deadbolt lock will come with experience and persistence.
Step 10. Turn the Cylinder and Unlock:
Once all the pins are set and the lock cylinder turns with the tension wrench, you have successfully picked the lock. Turn the cylinder fully to unlock the deadbolt. Be careful as you turn to avoid any sudden force that could damage the lock or your tools. Congratulations, you have now learned how to pick a Kwikset deadbolt lock!
With the right tools and a little patience, you can successfully pick a Kwikset deadbolt lock. Remember to always use your skills responsibly and only practice on locks that you own or have permission to pick.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use a Tension Wrench Properly: Apply consistent and gentle pressure with the tension wrench to avoid breaking the lock. It’s crucial to understand the right amount of torque needed, which can be learned through practice and experience.
- Feel for the Pins: Use a pick to gently probe the pins inside the lock. Feel for any pins that stick or are harder to move, as these are likely to be the ones holding the lock in place.
- Practice Raking: Raking involves inserting a pick into the lock and quickly moving it back and forth to jar the pins into place. This technique can sometimes be quicker than single-pin picking.
- Use Graphite Powder: If the lock is resistant, try applying a small amount of graphite powder to the keyway. This can help to lubricate the pins and chambers, making the picking process smoother.
- Stay Patient and Calm: One of the most important aspects of lock picking is patience. You’re more likely to make mistakes if you rush or get frustrated. Stay calm, work slowly, and methodically feel each pin’s movement.
With these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled lock picker. Remember to always practice caution and only use your skills for ethical purposes.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Using Excessive Force: Applying too much pressure with the tension wrench or pick can damage the lock or break your tools. Lock picking requires finesse and a gentle touch.
- Picking in a Rush: Hurrying through the process often leads to mistakes and frustration. Take your time, remain patient, and work methodically.
- Neglecting to Study the Lock: Each lock is unique, and understanding its specific mechanics is crucial. Failing to study the particular model of the Kwikset deadbolt can hamper your progress and result in failure.
- Ignoring Tool Maintenance: Dirty or worn tools can hinder your ability to pick the lock effectively. Regularly clean and inspect your tools to ensure they are always in optimal condition.
- Being Impatient with Stuck Pins: Pins that seem stuck can often be freed with slight adjustments. Jamming or forcing them can damage the lock. If a pin feels immovable, try adjusting the tension or picking position rather than applying more force.
Avoiding these common pitfalls can help you become a more proficient and successful lock picker. Always remember to use your skills ethically and responsibly.
Conclusion
How to pick a Kwikset deadbolt lock requires patience, practice, and a detail-oriented approach. By adhering to the essential tips and tricks outlined above, such as using the tension wrench properly, feeling for the pins, practicing raking, using graphite powder, and maintaining a calm demeanor, you can significantly improve your lock-picking skills.
Equally important is avoiding common mistakes like applying excessive force, picking in a rush, neglecting to study the lock, ignoring tool maintenance, and being impatient with stuck pins. Always remember that lock picking should be conducted for ethical purposes only and with permission.
With continuous practice and adherence to best practices, you’ll become more adept at picking Kwikset deadbolt locks, ultimately honing a valuable and respected skill.