Unlocking the Secrets: How to Use Comb Picks in Lockpicking

If you're delving into the world of locksport, you’ve likely come across a variety of tools designed to bypass different types of locks. One such tool that often piques the curiosity of both beginners and experienced lockpickers alike is the comb pick. While not as commonly discussed as traditional picks or rakes, comb picks are powerful tools that can make short work of certain locks. In this blog, we’ll explore what comb picks are, how they work, and how you can use them to open specific types of locks.

What is a Comb Pick?

A comb pick is a lockpicking tool designed to manipulate the pins in a lock in a very specific way. Unlike traditional picks, which individually lift pins to the shear line, a comb pick aligns all of the pins simultaneously, effectively pushing them completely out of the plug. This action creates an open path, allowing the lock to turn freely without the need for a key.

Comb picks are typically flat, with a series of teeth or prongs that correspond to the pins in a lock. The spacing and number of prongs match the pin stacks in the target lock, allowing the tool to interact with multiple pins at once.

How Do Comb Picks Work?

Comb picks exploit a vulnerability in some pin tumbler locks, where the pins can be pushed entirely out of the plug’s way, bypassing the need to align them at the shear line. For this to work, the plug must have enough space in the pin chambers to accommodate the entire length of the pins, including both key pins and driver pins.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how comb picks work and how to use them:

1. Insert the Comb Pick: Start by inserting the comb pick into the lock’s keyway. Ensure that the prongs align with the pin stacks inside the lock. The prongs should slide in smoothly without much resistance.

2. Align the Prongs with the Pins: Once inserted, the prongs of the comb pick should rest against the bottom of the pins. The tool needs to be positioned so that each prong is directly under a pin stack.

3. Push the Pins Up: Apply gentle pressure on the comb pick, pushing it further into the lock. The goal is to lift the pins completely out of the plug’s path. If the lock is vulnerable to this method, the prongs will push the key pins and driver pins entirely into their chambers.

4. Turn the Plug: With the pins pushed out of the way, the plug should now be free to rotate. Use a tension wrench or the comb pick itself to turn the plug and open the lock.

5. Practice and Patience: Comb picking doesn’t work on all locks, and it can take some practice to identify locks that are susceptible to this method. Some locks have security features, such as tighter tolerances or pin designs, that prevent comb picking from being effective.

When to Use Comb Picks

Comb picks are best suited for lower-quality or older locks that have loose tolerances. These locks may have enough space in the pin chambers to allow the pins to be completely bypassed. Common scenarios where comb picks might be effective include:

• Cheap Padlocks: Many inexpensive padlocks are vulnerable to comb picking due to their simple construction and lack of security pins.
• Low-Security Locks: Some low-security door locks, especially those designed with minimal pin stack tolerances, can also be bypassed with a comb pick.
• Learning and Practice: Comb picks can be a useful learning tool for beginners, helping them understand the mechanics of pin tumbler locks and how bypass methods work.

Limitations of Comb Picks

While comb picks can be very effective under the right circumstances, they do have limitations:

• Not Effective on High-Security Locks: High-security locks with tight tolerances, security pins, or specially designed pin chambers are typically immune to comb picking.
• Keyway Restrictions: Some locks have complex or restricted keyways that make it difficult to insert a comb pick properly.
• Limited Application: Comb picks are specialized tools that won’t work on the majority of locks, especially those with modern security features.

Locking it up: The Power and Limits of Comb Picks

Comb picks are a fascinating and powerful tool in the world of locksport, offering a quick and effective way to bypass certain types of locks. However, they are not a universal solution and are best used in specific scenarios where the lock’s design makes it vulnerable to this technique.

For those looking to expand their lockpicking toolkit, comb picks provide an interesting challenge and a chance to explore a different aspect of lock mechanics. Whether you’re practicing on old padlocks or testing your skills on low-security locks, comb picks can be a valuable addition to your lockpicking arsenal.

As always, practice is key. Spend time understanding the locks you’re working with, and you’ll soon learn when and where comb picks can be most effective. Happy picking!