How to Make a Paperclip Lockpick

Lock picks should only be used in emergency cases, such as locking your keys in your house.

Making a paper clip lock pick can make the difference between waiting for a lock smith to open your house and entering your house and closing your wallet. With the paper clip, you must also make a tension wrench. The tension wrench turns the cylinder in the lock while the lock pick accesses the actual lock. Lock picks can help you get to where you are going in a pinch.

Things You'll Need

• Paper clips
• Pliers

Instructions

Making the Lock Pick

1. Twist and pull the wide end of the paper clip up about half way. This will make a straight metal line and a looped handle.

2. Use pliers to take the other end of the paper clip through the remaining curve, and then twist the end around the paper clip. This will allow you to have a better grip on the paperclip once you begin picking at the lock.

3. Use your pliers again and start bending the straighten part of the paper clip. Create a "W" shape at the end of the straightened part to symbolize an actual key.

Making the Tension Wrench

1. Straighten out a new paper clip by unraveling it. Push the two sides together to form a halved paper clip shape.

2. Use your pliers to pinch the curve at the top of the paper clip to flatten it. Go 1/2 inch down the pinched part and create a 90 degree angle.

3. Twist the rest of the paper clip to form a tension wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• You should only use the tension wrench and lock pick to open your things. For example, if you lock yourself out of your car or house.

References

• Lock Picker Small: Best Tension Wrench Selection
• YouTube: How to Make a Paper Clip Lock Pick that Works