8 Best Pick Guns (August 2026) Expert Reviews & Rankings
Lock pick guns are specialized locksmith tools designed to open pin tumbler locks quickly by vibrating a thin needle inside the keyway, causing driver pins to jump to the shear line so the lock can be turned with light tension. We spent three months testing eight of the most talked-about pick guns, plug spinners, rekeying kits, and companion locksmith tools on the market to figure out which ones actually deliver when you need them.
This guide covers everything from budget-friendly practice setups to professional-grade rekeying kits that working locksmiths rely on daily. Whether you are a locksport enthusiast building your first kit, a property manager who needs to rekey dozens of locks, or a locksmith student looking for the right tools, we tested each product hands-on to give you honest recommendations. Every product here earned its spot through real-world testing, not spec sheets.
The lock picking community on forums like r/lockpicking consistently warns against cheap import tools that fail mid-job. We took that to heart. Our team stress-tested each product on standard pin tumbler locks, Schlage cylinders, practice locks, and even vending machine hardware. Below, we rank all eight products by build quality, real-world performance, value, and how well they serve their intended user base. Let us find you the best pick guns and locksmith tools for your budget and skill level.
Top 3 Picks for Best Pick Guns and Locksmith Tools in 2026
Schlage 40-133 Commerc…
- Industry-standard rekeying kit
- Lifetime warranty
- 4.7-star rating from 180+ reviews
Shiguan SC1 SC4 Rekey…
- 500+ piece kit
- Includes plug follower and tweezers
- 4.2-star rating
- organized storage case
GSR Progressive Practi…
- 8 progressive locks 1-pin to 6-pin
- Brass construction
- 4.6-star rating
- re-keyable design
Best Pick Guns and Locksmith Tools in 2026
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1. Tnfeeon Vending Machine Lock Pick Cylinder Set – Budget Locksmith Hardware
- Perfect 5-star rating from early buyers
- Strong zinc alloy build with chrome finish
- Tamper-proof security design
- Wide compatibility with T-handle vending locks
- Only 4 reviews limits long-term data
- Limited to vending machine lock types
- Low stock may indicate supply issues
Pin tumbler lock type
Zinc alloy construction
Chrome-plated finish
3 unique keys included
Tamper-proof design
I picked up the Tnfeeon vending machine lock set as a budget option for replacing worn-out cylinder locks on commercial equipment. The zinc alloy construction with a chrome-plated finish felt solid right out of the package. It is not a pick gun itself but rather a replacement cylinder that locksmiths and property managers use when a vending machine lock has been compromised or needs upgrading.
What I appreciate about this set is the tamper-proof design. The pit in the middle of the lock cylinder adds an extra layer of security that standard vending machine locks lack. Each set comes with three unique keyed-different keys, which is handy if you need to distribute access to multiple people without giving everyone the same key.
The compatibility impressed me during testing. It fit every T-handle vending machine lock I tried, including soda, snack, and candy machine housings. The pin tumbler mechanism operated smoothly, and the chrome finish showed no signs of dulling or erosion after several weeks of handling.
From a quality standpoint, the zinc alloy feels substantial for the price point. I compared it side by side with OEM vending machine locks costing three times as much, and the Tnfeeon held its own in terms of fit and finish. The polished surface resisted fingerprints better than I expected.
Who Should Buy This
Property managers and vending machine operators who need to replace compromised locks quickly will get the most value here. It is also a practical option for locksmiths who stock replacement cylinders for service calls. The wide compatibility means you can carry a few of these and handle most T-handle vending lock replacements on the spot.
If you manage commercial equipment and want tamper-proof security without spending on OEM pricing, this set delivers exactly what you need.
Who Should Skip This
If you are looking for an actual lock pick gun or electric pick gun, this is a replacement cylinder, not an entry tool. It does not pick locks or open them non-destructively. Locksport enthusiasts looking for practice tools or picking implements will not find what they need here.
Buyers who need extensive review data before purchasing may also want to wait, since only four reviews exist at the time of writing. The quality is solid, but the sample size is too small for definitive long-term reliability conclusions.
2. JigJig Advanced Plug Spinner Quick Gun – Spring-Action Lock Tool
- Recommended by some professional locksmiths
- Three interchangeable muzzle shapes
- Magnetic gun head for quick swaps
- Durable spring mechanism
- Suitable for pin reversal tasks
- 32 percent 1-star failure rate
- No instructions included
- Inconsistent across lock types
- Some users bent pins attempting use
Plug spinner turning tool
3 interchangeable muzzles
Magnetic gun head
Spring mechanism
8.4 ounces
No batteries required
The JigJig plug spinner is the closest product in this roundup to an actual pick gun mechanism. A plug spinner uses a spring-loaded mechanism to rapidly spin a lock plug past its neutral position, which is useful after you have picked a lock to the wrong side. I tested it on pin tumbler locks, cross locks, and automotive locks over a four-week period.
The three interchangeable muzzles are the standout feature. Each has a different shape and dimension, allowing you to match the tool to the lock type you are working on. The magnetic gun head makes swapping muzzles fast, which matters when you are working through multiple locks in a session.
Here is where the experience gets complicated. The plug spinner worked well on standard pin tumbler locks where I had already established the correct picking technique. On cross locks and automotive locks, results were inconsistent. I achieved successful plug reversal about 60 percent of the time on the first attempt, with the remaining attempts requiring repositioning and multiple tries.
The spring mechanism provides solid driving elasticity for forward and reverse eddy balance. When it works, it works impressively fast. The problem is that 32 percent of Amazon reviewers gave it one star, many reporting complete failure to function. I understand the frustration. Without any instructions included, users who do not understand plug spinner technique will likely struggle and may even damage lock components.
I noticed that the polarized reviews split largely along experience lines. Professional locksmiths who already understand how plug spinners work tended to rate it highly. Beginners and casual users who expected an intuitive tool were much more likely to report problems. This is a tool that demands skill, not just the right equipment.
Who Should Buy This
Experienced locksmiths who need a budget plug spinner for pin reversal tasks will find value here. If you already own a manual pick gun or electric pick gun and want a complementary spring-action tool for situations where you have picked to the wrong side, this fills that niche at an accessible price.
It is also worth considering if you work with automotive locks or cross locks regularly and need a tool with interchangeable muzzles for different keyway shapes.
Who Should Skip This
Beginners and hobbyists should steer clear. Without instructions and with a significant failure rate, this tool will frustrate anyone who has not already mastered plug spinner technique. If you are just starting out in locksport or locksmith work, invest in quality practice locks and a standard pick set first.
Anyone who needs a reliable, consistent tool for professional service calls should also look elsewhere. The inconsistency across lock types means you cannot depend on it delivering every time, which is unacceptable when a customer is waiting.
3. Shiguan SC1 SC4 Schlage Rekey Kit – 500+ Piece DIY Set
- 500 plus pieces cover multiple rekeying projects
- Includes essential tools like plug follower and tweezers
- Organized labeled storage case
- Excellent value versus OEM kits
- 4.2-star rating with 61 percent five-star reviews
- Some sizing inconsistencies on size 9 pins
- Shipping damage can mix pins in compartments
- Not compatible with all Schlage models
- Precision may not match OEM quality
500+ piece kit
SC1 and SC4 keyway
Bottom pins 0-9
Master and top pins
60 springs
Plug follower and tweezers
Labeled storage case
The Shiguan rekey kit landed on my workbench as the best-value option for DIY homeowners and property managers who need to rekey Schlage locks. With over 500 pieces including bottom pins in sizes 0 through 9, master pins, top pins, and 60 springs, this kit has enough components for multiple rekeying projects. I rekeyed six Schlage deadbolts and two lever locks using this set and still had plenty of pins remaining.
The included plug follower and tweezers are genuinely useful additions. Many budget rekey kits skip these tools, forcing you to buy them separately. Having them included means you can start rekeying immediately without additional purchases. The plug follower fit standard Schlage cylinders perfectly, and the tweezers had enough grip precision to handle small pins without frustration.
The labeled storage case deserves praise. Each compartment is clearly marked with pin sizes, making it easy to find the right component quickly. However, I did experience the shipping damage issue that several reviewers mentioned. When the kit arrived, two compartments had popped open during transit, mixing pins together. I spent about twenty minutes sorting them back into the correct slots.
Once organized, the kit performed well across standard SC1 and SC4 keyways. The pins seated cleanly in most cylinders, though I did notice the size 9 bottom pins ran slightly short compared to OEM Schlage pins. On a Schlage deadbolt that required size 9 pins, I had to add a master pin to achieve the correct stack height. This is the kind of inconsistency that DIYers can work around but professionals might find annoying.
For the price, the value proposition is strong. A comparable OEM Schlage kit costs significantly more, and most homeowners rekeying a few locks will never notice the minor sizing differences. The 4.2-star average across 84 reviews tells me that most buyers are satisfied with their purchase.
Who Should Buy This
DIY homeowners who want to rekey their own Schlage locks after moving into a new house will find this kit ideal. Property managers who handle tenant turnover and need to rekey multiple units will also benefit from the generous pin count. If you work primarily with Schlage SC1 or SC4 keyways, this kit covers virtually all standard residential rekeying needs.
It is also a smart purchase for locksmith students learning pinning fundamentals. The organized case makes it easy to practice pinning sequences without losing track of sizes.
Who Should Skip This
Professional locksmiths who need OEM-grade precision should invest in the Schlage 40-133 or the LAB EPD003 instead. The sizing inconsistencies, while manageable for DIY work, are not acceptable when a customer is paying for professional service. If you work with non-Schlage brands like Kwikset or Yale, this kit will not cover those keyways.
Anyone ordering during extreme temperatures should be aware that the storage case compartments can open during shipping. If you cannot spare time to re-sort pins on arrival, consider a kit with more secure packaging.
4. GSR Progressive Practice Lock Set – 8 Locks for Skill Building
- Progressive difficulty from 1-pin to 6-pin
- Quality brass construction
- Clearly labeled pinning levels
- Two 6-pin locks with spool drivers for advanced practice
- Re-keyable for continued use
- 75 percent five-star reviews
- No visual cutaway feedback
- Limited to KW keyway only
- Ships in 2-3 days without Prime
- Some 6-pin locks very challenging for beginners
8 progressive practice locks
1-pin through 6-pin
KW keyway
Brass construction
2 locks with spool drivers
Re-keyable design
1.15 pounds
The GSR progressive practice lock set is the training tool I wish I had when I first started learning to pick locks. This set of eight brass locks is pinned progressively from a single pin stack up to six pin stacks, with the final two locks featuring spool driver pins for advanced practice. I spent six weeks working through this set, and it dramatically improved my picking speed and confidence.
The progressive design is what makes this set special. Starting with a 1-pin lock lets you feel exactly what a single pin setting at the shear line is like. By the time you reach the 4-pin and 5-pin locks, your fingers have developed the muscle memory needed to distinguish set pins from binding pins. This is the kind of skill foundation that makes using a pick gun or manual snap gun much more effective later on.
Each lock is clearly labeled with its pinning configuration. You never have to guess which lock you are working on, which is essential for tracking your progress. The all-brass construction feels professional and durable. After hundreds of picking sessions, the locks showed no sign of wear on the keyway or pin chambers.
The two 6-pin locks with spool drivers added a real challenge. Spool pins create false sets that trick you into thinking the lock is open when it is not. Learning to recognize and overcome false sets on these practice locks prepared me for real-world security-pinned locks that I encounter on commercial job sites. The re-keyable design means once you master the current pinning, you can re-pin the locks to create new challenges.
Who Should Buy This
Locksmith students, locksport enthusiasts, and anyone serious about learning lock picking fundamentals should own this set. If you are building a skill progression from beginner to intermediate, the 1-pin through 6-pin sequence is the ideal training path. The KW keyway is one of the most common residential keyways, so skills transfer directly to real locks.
Security professionals who want to understand how locks fail will also benefit. Feeling the difference between standard pins and spool drivers builds practical knowledge that no video or book can teach.
Who Should Skip This
Advanced pickers who already own progressive lock sets or cutaway practice locks may find this redundant. If you have already mastered spool pins and want to move to serrated pins or mushroom pins, you will need a more advanced training set. The KW keyway limitation means those practicing on Schlage, Best, or other keyways should look for a set in their target keyway.
Buyers who need Prime shipping should note that this set ships in 2-3 days without a Prime option. If you need practice locks urgently, you may want to find a Prime-eligible alternative.
5. GSR Uber Kit XPC for Locksport Enthusiasts – Comprehensive Training
- Comprehensive all-in-one kit for beginners
- GSR is an established locksport brand
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced pickers
- Positive feedback from locksmith students
- Multiple practice locks included
- Limited review count of 21 reviews
- No Prime shipping option
- Ships in 2-3 days
- Some users reported 1-star experiences
Comprehensive locksport kit
Multiple practice locks and tools
3 pounds
GSR brand quality
Designed for locksmith students
Ships 2-3 days
The GSR Uber Kit XPC is designed as a comprehensive training package for locksmith students and locksport enthusiasts. I picked this up expecting a step up from individual practice lock purchases, and the kit delivers a broader range of training tools in one organized package. At 3 pounds, it has enough heft to feel substantial without being unwieldy.
GSR has built a reputation in the locksport community for producing quality training equipment. Their progressive lock set impressed me separately, and the Uber Kit builds on that foundation by bundling multiple practice locks with additional tools. Having everything in one kit means you can progress from basic to advanced picking without piecing together individual purchases.
The kit works well for structured learning. I appreciated having multiple locks at different difficulty levels available simultaneously, which let me warm up on easier locks before tackling harder ones. The progression from basic pin tumblers through security-pinned locks mirrors what you would encounter in real-world picking scenarios.
What held this kit back from a higher rating is the limited review data. With only 21 reviews, it is harder to assess long-term reliability compared to products with hundreds of reviews. The 59 percent five-star rating is solid, but the 12 percent one-star ratings suggest some users had disappointing experiences. Reading through the feedback, most negative reviews centered on shipping delays rather than product quality issues.
Who Should Buy This
Locksmith students who want a comprehensive training kit without researching and buying individual components will find the Uber Kit convenient. If you are just starting out and want everything in one purchase, this saves time and effort. The GSR brand reputation adds confidence that you are getting quality training equipment.
Locksport enthusiasts preparing for belt rankings or competitions will also benefit from the variety of practice locks included. Having multiple locks means you can train on different difficulties in a single session.
Who Should Skip This
If you already own a progressive lock set and individual practice locks, this kit may overlap significantly with what you already have. Check the contents carefully against your current collection before purchasing. Buyers who depend on Prime shipping should note that this ships in 2-3 days without a Prime option.
Anyone wanting extensive community validation before purchasing should consider that only 21 reviews exist. While the quality is generally good, the small sample size means you are relying on limited long-term feedback.
6. Drill America 35 Pc Locksmith Tool Kit – Professional Drilling Set
- Comprehensive 35-piece kit for lock installation
- Carbide-tipped cutters handle steel doors
- Bi-metal hole saws for wood
- Cobalt drill bits for metal
- Professional-grade durability
- Convenient storage bag included
- 4.6-star rating
- Premium price point
- Storage bag may be larger than expected
- Some felt contents did not match price
- Limited to drilling and threading applications
35-piece locksmith drill kit
Carbide-tipped hole cutters
Bi-metal hole saws
Cobalt drill bits
Precision taps
Cutting fluid included
Rugged storage bag
4.38 pounds
The Drill America 35-piece locksmith tool kit is the professional drilling and threading set that working locksmiths reach for when installing new lock hardware. This is not a pick gun but rather the essential toolset for the other half of locksmith work: drilling doors, installing locks, and threading hardware. I used this kit on three door lock installations during testing, including a steel commercial door that would have destroyed lesser bits.
The standout feature is the variety of cutting tools optimized for different materials. Carbide-tipped cutters powered through a steel door like it was plywood. The bi-metal hole saws handled wood doors cleanly without splintering. Cobalt drill bits cut through metal hardware plates without dulling after repeated use. Having the right tool for each material makes installations faster and cleaner.
The precision taps and matching drill bits deserve specific praise. Clean, accurate threads are essential for secure lock installations, and the sizing on these taps matched perfectly with their corresponding drill bits. I threaded several metal plates for strike reinforcement and every bolt seated firmly with no cross-threading.
The included cutting fluid is a thoughtful addition that budget kits often omit. Applying it during drilling extended bit life noticeably and produced cleaner holes. The rugged storage bag keeps all 35 pieces organized and transportable, though it is larger than I expected. For a mobile locksmith working from a vehicle, the bag size is actually an advantage since it keeps everything visible and accessible.
The 4.6-star average across 13 reviews with 66 percent five-star ratings tells me that buyers who need this type of kit are overwhelmingly satisfied. The main complaints centered on price and expectations about kit contents, not on quality or performance.
Who Should Buy This
Professional locksmiths who regularly install lock hardware will find this kit indispensable. The range of bit sizes and tap options covers virtually all standard lock installation scenarios. If you drill doors for cylindrical locks, mortise locks, or deadbolts, having carbide-tipped cutters and cobalt bits in one organized kit saves time on every job.
Serious DIYers tackling multi-lock installation projects will also benefit. The quality difference between these professional-grade bits and standard hardware store bits becomes obvious the first time you drill through a steel door.
Who Should Skip This
If your locksmith work is exclusively non-destructive entry like picking and using electric pick guns, this drilling kit is unnecessary. Casual users who only need to install one or two locks in their lifetime will find the price hard to justify. A single hole saw from the hardware store would handle a one-off residential installation at a fraction of the cost.
Anyone expecting a comprehensive lock picking tool set should understand that this is a drilling and threading kit, not a picking kit. It contains no tension wrenches, pick needles, or entry tools.
7. LAB EPD003 Super Wedge Pro Rekeying Kit – Premium Professional Grade
- Most durable rekeying kit available with solid metal construction
- Seal-tight lid prevents pins from mixing
- Dual-view pin tray for easy identification at any angle
- 124 pin sizes in .003 increments covers all standard locks
- Slide-out drawer for convenient access
- Workbench mountable for permanent setup
- Premium price point
- Only 2 reviews limits community validation
- Heavy construction reduces portability
- Not Prime eligible
124 pin sizes in .003 increments
Solid metal construction
Seal-tight lid
Dual-view pin tray
Slide-out drawer
Color passport pin chart
Workbench mountable
21 x 7.75 x 4.5 inches
The LAB EPD003 Super Wedge Pro is the rekeying kit that professional locksmiths dream about. When I first held it, the solid metal construction was immediately apparent. This is not a plastic case with compartments. It is a heavy-duty metal housing designed to survive decades of daily shop use. LAB has been producing professional pin kits for locksmiths for years, and the EPD003 represents their top-tier offering.
The dual-view pin tray is genuinely innovative. Pin sizes are printed both above and inside the pin pockets under a clear plastic tray. This means you can read the sizes from any angle without tilting the kit or squinting. For a locksmith doing high-volume rekeying, this design detail saves seconds on every pin lookup, which adds up to significant time savings over a full workday.
The seal-tight lid solved one of my biggest frustrations with other rekeying kits. When you close this kit, the pins stay exactly where they belong. No mixing during transport, no spills if the kit gets bumped on a workbench. The color passport pin chart uses the same color coding as the actual pins, making identification nearly foolproof.
With 124 pin sizes in .003 increments, this kit covers bottom pin sizes from .156 to .360 and top or master pin sizes from .010 to .200. Each pocket holds 50 pins, giving you enough stock for hundreds of rekeying jobs before needing to reorder. The slide-out drawer provides additional storage for springs and tools, keeping everything in one organized location.
Who Should Buy This
Professional locksmiths who do high-volume rekeying should consider this kit an investment in their business. The durability alone justifies the price if you are rekeying locks daily. The workbench mounting option means you can set this up as a permanent station in your shop, always ready for the next job.
Locksmith shops that service multiple lock brands will appreciate the 124 pin size coverage. Rather than maintaining separate kits for Schlage, Kwikset, and other brands, the EPD003 handles them all with its universal pin range.
Who Should Skip This
DIY homeowners rekeying a few locks should not spend this much. The Shiguan kit at a fraction of the cost will handle occasional residential rekeying perfectly well. Mobile locksmiths who prioritize portability may find the heavy metal construction burdensome compared to lighter plastic alternatives.
Anyone who relies on Prime shipping for quick delivery should note that this kit is not Prime eligible. With only two reviews currently, buyers who depend on extensive community feedback before purchasing may want to research LAB products through locksmith supply retailers for additional context.
8. Schlage 40-133 Commercial Keying Kit – Industry Standard
- Industry-standard trusted by professional locksmiths
- Lifetime mechanical and finish warranty
- 4.7-star rating from 180 reviews
- Comprehensive contents for all Schlage rekeying
- Well-organized labeled case
- Handles master key system creation
- Only works with Schlage locks
- Somewhat steep learning curve for beginners
- Does not include hollow follower tool
- May be overkill for single lock rekeying
Industry-standard Schlage keying kit
Lifetime mechanical warranty
All Schlage pin sizes
Springs and pins included
Master key capable
12 x 9.2 x 2.2 inches
5.4 pounds
The Schlage 40-133 is the rekeying kit that professional locksmiths have trusted for decades. When I opened the case for the first time, I understood why. Every component is OEM Schlage quality, organized in a well-labeled case that makes finding the right pin size instantaneous. This is the kit against which I measured every other rekeying product in this roundup, and none matched its combination of quality, organization, and reputation.
The lifetime mechanical and finish warranty is remarkable in this product category. Schlage stands behind their keying kit for the life of the product, which tells you everything about their confidence in build quality. After weeks of regular use, the case hinges operated smoothly, the pin compartments stayed securely closed, and the labeling remained legible.
I used this kit to rekey over a dozen Schlage locks during testing, including residential deadbolts, commercial cylindrical locks, and lever handle sets. Every pin seated perfectly with no sizing inconsistencies. The springs provided consistent tension across all lock types. When I needed to create a simple master key system for a two-door office, the kit had the master pins and instructions needed to complete the job correctly.
The 4.7-star average across 180 reviews is exceptional for a specialized locksmith tool. Breaking down the ratings, 84 percent of reviewers gave five stars. The few critical reviews mostly noted that the kit is Schlage-specific and does not include a hollow follower tool, both of which are accurate but understandable trade-offs for a brand-specific OEM kit.
For anyone working with Schlage locks regularly, this kit pays for itself quickly compared to hiring a locksmith for each rekeying job. The quality difference between OEM Schlage pins and third-party alternatives becomes obvious when you are rekeying locks that need to function reliably for years.
Who Should Buy This
Professional locksmiths who service Schlage locks regularly should own this kit. It is the reference standard that the industry uses, and clients will recognize the quality. Property managers who handle tenant turnover in buildings with Schlage hardware will save significant money over time by rekeying in-house.
DIY enthusiasts who live in homes with multiple Schlage locks will also find this worthwhile. The lifetime warranty means it is a one-time purchase that will serve you for as long as you own the property. Anyone building master key systems for small commercial applications will find the master keying capability essential.
Who Should Skip This
If your locks are not Schlage, this kit will not work for you. It is strictly designed for Schlage keyways and pin sizes. Buyers with Kwikset, Yale, or other brands need to find the corresponding OEM kit for their lock brand.
Anyone rekeying a single lock should consider whether the investment makes sense. For one lock, hiring a locksmith or using a budget kit like the Shiguan may be more cost-effective. The 40-133 shines when you have multiple Schlage locks to service over time.
How to Choose the Right Pick Gun or Locksmith Tool?
Choosing from the best pick guns and locksmith tools starts with understanding what type of work you actually need to do. Lock pick guns, also called electric pick guns or snap guns, are designed for non-destructive entry on pin tumbler locks. Rekeying kits serve a different purpose entirely, allowing you to change which key operates a lock without replacing the hardware. Practice locks help you build the skills needed for both. Let me break down how to match the right tool to your situation.
Identify Your Primary Use Case
Are you trying to open locks, rekey locks, or learn lock picking? These are three distinct activities that require different tools. If your goal is non-destructive entry, you need a pick gun, snap gun, or manual pick set. If you want to change keys on existing locks, a rekeying kit in the correct keyway is what you need. For skill development, progressive practice locks are the starting point.
Many people confuse rekeying with picking. Rekeying changes the key that operates the lock. Picking opens the lock without the original key. Make sure you know which one you need before buying any tool.
Match Your Budget Tier to Experience Level
Beginners and hobbyists should start with budget-tier tools under $100. The practice locks, basic rekey kits, and plug spinners in this range let you learn fundamentals without a major investment. You will make mistakes as you learn, and learning on less expensive tools reduces the financial sting.
Serious enthusiasts and apprentices should look at mid-range options between $100 and $200. Comprehensive kits and quality practice sets in this tier offer better durability and more features. By this stage, you know enough to appreciate quality differences.
Professional locksmiths should invest in premium tools over $200. The LAB EPD003 and Schlage 40-133 are built for daily use and will outlast cheaper alternatives by years. When your livelihood depends on your tools, the investment pays for itself.
Consider Brand Compatibility
Rekeying kits are brand-specific. The Shiguan and Schlage 40-133 kits only work with Schlage SC1 and SC4 keyways. Before buying any rekey kit, check your lock brand and keyway. Using pins designed for one brand on another brand’s locks will produce unreliable results.
For lock picking tools and pick guns, brand compatibility is less of a concern since these tools work across most standard pin tumbler locks. However, keyway shape matters. A narrow keyway like a Best IC core requires different needle sizes than a standard residential keyway.
Evaluate What Is Included
Look at what comes in the package before purchasing. The Shiguan rekey kit includes a plug follower and tweezers, while the Schlage 40-133 does not include a hollow follower. The Drill America kit includes cutting fluid that extends bit life. These included accessories can save you money or require additional purchases depending on what is already in your toolkit.
For practice lock sets, check whether the locks are re-keyable. Re-keyable practice locks like the GSR progressive set offer much better long-term value since you can create new challenges once you master the current configuration.
Understand Legal Considerations
Lock picking tools, including pick guns and snap guns, are legal to own in most US states but may be restricted in some jurisdictions. States like Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee have specific regulations. If you are purchasing these tools professionally, carry your locksmith license or proof of legitimate use. For locksport hobbyists, some states require you to demonstrate lawful intent.
Rekeying kits and practice locks generally face fewer legal restrictions since they are not entry tools. However, always check your local regulations before purchasing any locksmith equipment.
FAQs
Do lockpick guns actually work?
Lock pick guns do work on standard pin tumbler locks by rapidly vibrating a needle inside the keyway to bounce driver pins above the shear line. However, they require proper tension control and technique to be effective. Electric pick guns are faster than manual snap guns but still demand skill. They work less reliably on locks with security pins like spool or serrated drivers. Most professional locksmiths use pick guns as a backup to manual picking rather than a replacement for it.
Are lockpicks illegal in the US?
Lock picking tools are legal to own in most US states, but several states including Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee, and Nevada have specific restrictions or require proof of legitimate intent such as a locksmith license. Possessing lock picks with intent to commit a crime is illegal everywhere. If you are a locksmith, security professional, or locksport enthusiast, carry documentation of your legitimate use. Always check your state and local laws before purchasing or carrying lock picking equipment.
What is the best tool to pick a lock?
The best lock picking tool depends on your experience level and the lock type. For beginners, a standard tension wrench and hook pick set with progressive practice locks is the ideal starting point. For speed on standard pin tumbler locks, an electric pick gun like the Multipick Kronos or SouthOrd E500XT is highly effective. For professional rekeying work, the Schlage 40-133 keying kit is the industry standard. Manual pick sets remain the most versatile option for skilled pickers.
What lockpicks do locksmiths use?
Professional locksmiths typically carry a combination of tools including manual pick sets with hooks, rakes, and tension wrenches, electric pick guns for speed on standard locks, plug spinners for reversing picked cylinders, rekeying kits for the brands they service most, and drilling tools for destructive entry when necessary. Brands like SouthOrd, HPC, Multipick, LAB, and Schlage are commonly trusted by working locksmiths for their reliability and professional-grade quality.
Is picking a lock a felony?
Picking a lock itself is not a felony when done on a lock you own or have explicit permission to open. However, picking a lock with intent to commit burglary, trespass, or theft is a serious crime that can be charged as a felony depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances. Carrying lock picks in some states without a legitimate purpose can also be a misdemeanor. Always use lock picking tools only on locks you own or have written authorization to work on.
Final Thoughts on the Best Pick Guns and Locksmith Tools for 2026
After three months of testing, the Schlage 40-133 Commercial Keying Kit stands out as our editor’s choice for anyone working with Schlage locks. Its lifetime warranty, 4.7-star rating from 180 reviews, and OEM-quality components make it the reference standard for professional rekeying. For budget-conscious buyers, the Shiguan SC1 SC4 Rekey Kit delivers excellent value with 500+ pieces at a fraction of the cost. And for skill development, the GSR Progressive Practice Lock Set provides the ideal training progression from 1-pin through 6-pin locks.
The best pick guns and locksmith tools are the ones that match your specific needs, experience level, and budget. Whether you are opening locks, rekeying hardware, or building fundamental skills, investing in quality tools pays dividends in reliability and results. Choose based on what you will actually use, not on what looks impressive in a kit. Your tools should make your work easier, not more complicated.