What Is Reverse Lock Picking, and Is It Difficult?

If you’ve ever run into a lock that was difficult to pick using traditional methods, you might want to try reverse lock picking. This lesser-known technique has gained popularity among locksmiths and hobbyists alike. Join us as we look into what reverse lock picking is and whether it’s difficult to learn.

What Is Reverse Lock Picking?

Reverse lock picking, also known as overlifting, refers to picking a lock in the opposite direction of traditional lock picking. In other words, instead of lifting pins or wafers up one by one to meet the shear line, all the pins or wafers are lifted past the shear line, then slowly dropped to their correct position at the shear line allowing the plug to turn. The goal is to drop the pins to the shear line rather than pushing them up toward the shear line, as is usually done with traditional lock picking.

To reverse pick, the pins or wafers are first lifted simultaneously toward the top of the keyway, above the shear line. Then heavy tension is applied to hold them in place. The tension is released bit by bit, in pulses, allowing the pins or wafers to fall back toward the shear line. Once the pins or wafers have all dropped correctly to the shear line, the plug can turn, opening the lock.

Why Use Reverse Lock Picking?

Traditional lock-picking methods can often pick locks within a few minutes. However, some locks can be a challenge to open! Certain locks, such as wafer locks, can be easier to pick in reverse. The reverse picking technique can also be successful in locks featuring security pins.

Even in situations where traditional lock-picking methods work just fine, it doesn’t hurt to have a few tricks up your sleeve. Sometimes, you can use reverse lock picking as a backup method if traditional methods fail or for added convenience and efficiency.

Is Reverse Picking Difficult To Learn?

Now you know what reverse lock picking is, is it difficult to learn? Reverse lock picking isn’t particularly difficult, but it does require practice and patience. It may feel counterintuitive at first, as you’re essentially picking the lock in reverse of how you normally would. However, with experimentation and understanding of how different types of locks function, reverse picking can become a valuable tool in your lock-picking arsenal.

Tips for Successful Reverse Picking

1. Familiarize yourself with the inner workings of different types of locks. Understanding how security pins and other mechanisms function will give you an advantage when reverse picking.
2. Practice on easy-to-pick locks before attempting more challenging ones. This experience will help you develop a better understanding of the tension and pressure needed for successful reverse picking.
3. Pay attention to feedback from the lock. The pins and springs will provide different sensations when manipulated, allowing you to determine the correct pressure needed for successful picking.
4. Stay patient and focused. Reverse picking can take time and precision.

If you want to give reverse picking a try, visit Southord to shop the lock picking tools you’ll need. Our picks are high-quality and durable so you can use them to practice again and again. You’ll learn reverse picking in no time!