Law enforcement officers and military personnel are utilizing lock picking every day in real world situations. Whether it’s a covert entry, welfare check or tactical operation, these skills will enhance your current capabilities. Here are some frequently asked questions.
(An officer making an entry by picking the deadbolt.)
Is lock picking hard to learn?
No. Most people pick their first lock within a couple of minutes. The method in which the skill is taught is a considerable factor. We have developed a hands-on model based on practical techniques.
Can most locks be picked?
Yes, most common locks encountered in the United States can be picked. The level of ease depends on the type of lock, age of the lock, and brand of lock. Many locks that are considered “high security” are still vulnerable to simple bypass techniques.
I’m a patrol officer, detective, operator, etc., why would I need these skills in the first place?
This class is directly responsible for saved lives through welfare checks:
“I responded to a welfare check when a concerned person reported not seeing his elderly female neighbor for at least three days. He generally takes the neighbor to the store every day, sometimes every other day. I was able to pick the front door knob and dead bolt. We located the home owner on the floor suffering from a stroke. She had obviously been on the floor for over a day and was convulsing. Fire responded and was able to provide life saving care. I was able to lock the door by picking it again, avoiding damage or additional cost to the victim. The ER doctors stated that the lady was within 30 or so minutes of death when we found her.- Wayne B. June, 2012”
Untold numbers of arrest and search warrants:
“A couple of weeks after attending your class, I assisted in the execution of a narcotics related search warrant in which a safe with an electronic lock was located. It was believed that narcotics may be concealed in the safe. It was the same type electronic lock that you discussed in class. I called you by phone and asked for your assistance. After briefly describing the situation, you gave me directions, which resulted in the successful opening of the safe. Inside was found a large amount of diverted prescription medication, cash and a pistol. This case resulted in the arrest of a long time prescription drug dealer who was responsible for ruining countless lives. The evidence seized led to a successful prosecution and incarceration of the dealer. My fellow deputies were amazed that I could open the safe so easily. Thank you for your assistance. – Alden T. Sept., 2014″
SWAT/Operations utilizations:
“I have personally picked the lock on an attic hatch of an apartment building to access the roof for an operational High angle call. We have used it to conduct covert surveillance of buildings and properties.
My team was stuck out in -30 degree weather with a strong wind and we were able to use the garage door hook to open a garage door of a neighboring residence to get the team into and out of the cold. We have used the techniques taught by you countless times and I keep my tools with me every day.- Wade G. March, 2014″
Military applications:
“I have used the lock picking skills you taught on so many different occasions it is hard to keep track of them all. I have picked numerous locks in a wide variety of situations ranging from getting hostages out of hand cuffs or bypassing sensors in training scenarios to gaining entry into locked compounds or areas in Afghanistan where it was quicker and safer to pick the lock then do a mechanical or explosive breach. Over the past few years I have learned to always travel with my lock picking set you provided. I really enjoyed your class and your updates you send out.
-GySgt (name withheld) USMC February, 2015″
Does lock picking replace standard breaching practices?
No. Lock picking and lock bypassing offer an additional option for the officer or investigator where traditional breaching methods might not be suitable. Lock picking does offer a covert method of entry where signs of entry would otherwise jeopardize an ongoing investigation (when legally applicable).
I’m not on a SWAT team. Would this benefit me?
Absolutely. Our instruction isn’t focused at any one group within the law enforcement community, but offers significant skills to any law enforcement officer. This is directly beneficial for not only special operations teams, but officers and investigators engaged in welfare checks, probation checks, search warrants, surveillance teams, wildlife conservation law enforcement and many other applications.
If I come to your class, will I receive any gear?
Yes you will. You’ll receive a professional lock picking kit, custom made for us by Southord. You’ll also receive a bypass tool as well as a syllabus containing all of the topics discussed in class. We also provide you with digital content that you can access on any smart phone. This includes factory preset combinations for common safes, serial-number-reference for padlocks, redacted search warrant applications, and much more. We also offer additional tools and gear for purchase, if you’re interested.
Where is your next class?
Check out our Calendar for the next date and location near you.
How can my agency host a class?
If you’re interested in hosting a class, feel free to contact us. Hosting a class costs you nothing and will provide your agency with free slots. For more information on hosting, click for specific advantages and requirements.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please see our cancellation policy at the following link: cancellations
