https://wikimd.com/index.php?action=history&feed=atom&title=Lock_pickingLock picking - Revision history2026-04-05T11:56:15ZRevision history for this page on the wikiMediaWiki 1.44.2https://wikimd.com/index.php?title=Lock_picking&diff=5812581&oldid=prevPrab: CSV import2024-05-23T15:26:53Z<p>CSV import</p>
<p><b>New page</b></p><div>[[File:Female_patient_suffering_from_erotomania,_1843_Wellcome_L0022720.jpg|thumb|Female patient suffering from erotomania, 1843 Wellcome L0022720]] '''Lock picking''' is the practice of unlocking a [[lock (security device)|lock]] by manipulating the components of the lock device without the original [[key (lock)|key]]. Although lock picking can be associated with criminal activity, it is also an essential skill for [[locksmithing|locksmiths]] and is a popular hobby and sport among enthusiasts.<br />
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== History ==<br />
Lock picking has a long history, dating back to ancient times. The earliest known locks were made by the [[Ancient Egypt|Egyptians]] around 4000 years ago. These locks were simple wooden devices with a bolt and pins. The [[Ancient Rome|Romans]] later improved upon these designs, creating more complex locks with metal components.<br />
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During the [[Middle Ages]], locksmiths in [[Europe]] developed more sophisticated locks to protect valuable items. The art of lock picking was also practiced by thieves and burglars, leading to a continuous battle between lock makers and lock pickers.<br />
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== Techniques ==<br />
Lock picking involves several techniques, each suited to different types of locks. The most common techniques include:<br />
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* '''Single Pin Picking (SPP)''': This method involves manipulating each pin individually until the lock opens.<br />
* '''Raking''': This technique uses a rake tool to quickly move the pins into the correct position.<br />
* '''Bumping''': A bump key is used to force the pins into alignment by striking the key with a hammer or other tool.<br />
* '''Impressioning''': This method involves creating a key by making an impression of the lock's keyway.<br />
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== Tools ==<br />
Lock picking requires specialized tools, which can vary depending on the type of lock being picked. Common tools include:<br />
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* '''Tension Wrench''': Used to apply torque to the lock's cylinder.<br />
* '''Pick''': A tool used to manipulate the pins within the lock.<br />
* '''Rake''': A tool with multiple ridges used for raking.<br />
* '''Bump Key''': A specially cut key used for bumping.<br />
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== Legal and Ethical Considerations ==<br />
The legality of lock picking varies by jurisdiction. In many places, possessing lock picking tools is legal, but using them to gain unauthorized access is a crime. Ethical lock pickers, often referred to as "white-hat" pickers, use their skills for legitimate purposes, such as [[locksmithing]] or participating in lock picking competitions.<br />
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== Lock Picking as a Sport ==<br />
Lock picking has evolved into a competitive sport known as [[locksport]]. Enthusiasts participate in events and competitions to test their skills against various locks. These events promote the ethical use of lock picking skills and encourage the development of new techniques and tools.<br />
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== See Also ==<br />
* [[Lock (security device)]]<br />
* [[Key (lock)]]<br />
* [[Locksmithing]]<br />
* [[Security engineering]]<br />
* [[Physical security]]<br />
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== References ==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
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== External Links ==<br />
{{Commons category|Lock picking}}<br />
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[[Category:Locksmithing]]<br />
[[Category:Security technology]]<br />
[[Category:Hobbies]]<br />
[[Category:Physical security]]<br />
[[Category:Lock picking]]<br />
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