Why Every Lock Picker Needs a Repinnable Practice Lock
Whether you're just starting your lock picking journey or looking to refine advanced techniques, a repinnable practice lock is the single most valuable training tool you can own. Unlike fixed acrylic locks that offer just one challenge level, repinnable locks let you configure the difficulty yourself. Go from a simple 2-pin setup for absolute beginners to a demanding 6-pin configuration with security pins for experienced pickers.
Here's the key insight that separates casual hobbyists from skilled lock pickers: you shouldn't practice on locks in actual use. Real-world locks can be damaged by picking attempts, and the last thing you want is to accidentally disable your own front door.
This is like having access to ten, twenty, a thousand or more practice locks in one! The cutaway design lets me see exactly what's happening as I pick. My skills improved faster in two weeks than in the previous six months of blind practice.
Why Repinnable Beats Fixed Practice Locks
Infinite Configurations
One lock, billions of pinning combinations. Change difficulty in minutes without buying new equipment.
Grows With You
Start with 2 pins as a beginner, progress to 6 pins with security configurations as you improve.
Target Weaknesses
Struggling with spools? Configure your lock to practice exactly what challenges you most.
Better Value
Instead of buying dozens of locks, invest once in a quality repinnable that delivers years of training.
See Inside the Lock as You Pick
Cutaway practice locks expose the pin mechanism, letting you watch exactly how your picks interact with the pins and springs. This visual feedback is invaluable. You'll see precisely when pins set, when they overset, and how different tension affects the mechanism.
As you learn to identify feedback with actual pin movement, you'll develop an intuitive understanding of what's happening inside any lock you encounter. This is the fastest path from beginner to confident lock picker.
Your Lock Picking Progression Path
The beauty of repinnable practice locks is the ability to create a structured learning journey. Here's how experienced lock pickers recommend progressing:
1-2 Pins
Learn tension control and basic feel
3-4 Pins
Develop binding order recognition
5-6 Pins
Standard lock configurations
Security Pins
Spools, serrated and advanced
Being made from a real Schlage lock rather than a practice lock, you get all the real-world feedback, sensation, and knowledge you need. The selection of security pins lets me practice spools and serrated pins until I can defeat them consistently.
Our Repinnable Practice Lock Range
Every Dangerfield practice lock is designed by lock pickers, for lock pickers. We've tested, refined, and perfected these training tools to accelerate your learning.
Dangerfield Mortise Repinnable Lock Kit
- 30+ standard and security pins included
- Spool and serrated pins for advanced training
- Billions of possible configurations
- Complete kit with springs and hex key
- Solid metal construction
Dangerfield Aerospace Cutaway Practice Lock
- See-through cutaway design
- Aerospace-grade brushed aluminum
- Beveled edges for comfort and safety
- Includes tweezers for easy repinning
- Weighted 10oz solid construction
Dangerfield Infinitus Cutaway Practice Lock
- Real American Schlage lock mechanism
- Solid brass construction
- Includes right and wrong keys
- Grip-ended tweezers included
- Security pins: spool and serrated
Quick Comparison: Which Lock Is Right For You?
| Feature | Mortise Kit | Aerospace Cutaway | Infinitus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Best value beginners | Visual learners | Realistic training |
| Material | Solid Metal | Aerospace Aluminum | Solid Brass |
| Cutaway View | No | Yes - Full visibility | Yes - Full visibility |
| Pins Included | 30+ (standard and security) | Selection included | Selection included |
| Security Pins | Spool, Serrated, T-Pins | Spool and Serrated | Spool and Serrated |
| Tweezers Included | No (not essential) | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ (77) | ★★★★★ (40) |
| Price | $44.99 | $69.99 | $49.99 |
The Book That Makes Everything Click
190+ Full-Color Illustrations. 178 Pages. Everything You Need.
Lock Picking: The Beginner's Visual Guide
Forget grainy photocopies and confusing text-heavy manuals. This is the book where everything makes sense because you can actually see it. Over 190 full-color diagrams show you exactly what's happening inside the lock as you work: the pin stacks, the binding order, the shear line, and every tool angle you need.
We've been teaching lock picking since 2007. This isn't untested theory. It's refined methodology from thousands of workshop hours and real student feedback. We know where beginners get stuck, what explanations work, and which exercises actually build skills.
What's Inside:
- 190+ detailed cutaway diagrams in full color
- 178 pages of progressive skill-building content
- Pin cylinders, security pins, wafer locks, tubular locks
- Bump keys, pick guns, impressioning techniques
- Troubleshooting guide for false sets and oversetting
- Complete glossary of lock picking terms
How to Repin Your Practice Lock
Changing your lock configuration takes just minutes. Here's the simple 6-step process:
- Remove the hex screw using the included Allen key
- Remove the spring, then carefully remove the pins
- Replace the key pin (bottom pin) as required for your bitting
- Replace the driver pin (top pin) or swap for a security pin
- Replace the spring
- Replace and tighten the hex screw
Repeat for each pin chamber you want to change. That's it. You've created a completely new lock challenge.
Understanding Security Pins
Once you've mastered standard pins, security pins add a new dimension to your training. Here's what you'll encounter:
Spool Pins
Spool pins have a narrowed middle section that creates "false sets" when picking. The lock feels like it's opening, but won't turn completely until you apply the right counter-rotation technique. Learning to defeat spools is a crucial skill since they're found in most quality real-world locks.
Serrated Pins
Serrated pins have grooves cut into them, creating multiple false shear lines. As you pick, you'll feel several "clicks" before the pin truly sets. These require precision and patience to defeat.
T-Pins (Barrel Pins)
T-pins, sometimes called barrel pins, feature a distinctive shape with a narrowed section similar to spools but with sharper shoulders. When you apply tension and lift a T-pin, those sharp edges catch on the shear line and create a firm false set, often more pronounced than a standard spool. You'll feel the core rotate slightly and then stop dead.
Defeating T-pins requires controlled tension release. Ease off just enough to let the pin slide past the ledge, then reapply pressure as it sets. The feedback is more abrupt than spools, which can catch beginners off guard. Once you recognize that sudden stop followed by resistance, you'll know exactly what you're dealing with. T-pins appear in mid-range and higher security locks, making them an essential challenge to master before tackling real-world cylinders.
The Praxis picks have been reviewed as Bosnian Bill's (Lock-Lab) set of choice. The dual-gauge design means I can tackle any keyway, and the feedback from these 301 stainless steel picks is incredible. Combined with a repinnable practice lock, my skills improved dramatically.
Who Uses Repinnable Practice Locks?
Locksport Beginners
Start with basics, progress at your own pace, build confidence with adjustable difficulty.
Trainee Locksmiths
Develop professional skills with real-world lock mechanisms and security pin configurations.
Competitive Pickers
Maintain edge with challenging configurations. Prepare for competition scenarios.
Security Professionals
Understand vulnerabilities by experiencing lock mechanisms hands-on.
Craftsmanship You Can See and Feel
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a repinnable lock and a clear acrylic lock?
Clear acrylic locks offer great visibility for absolute beginners but have fixed pin configurations. Repinnable locks let you change the internal pins to create unlimited difficulty levels, from beginner to advanced, making them a much better long-term investment. Metal repinnable locks also provide realistic feedback identical to real-world locks.
Do I need any special tools to repin these locks?
No. All Dangerfield repinnable locks come with everything you need. The Mortise Kit includes a hex Allen key, while the Aerospace and Infinitus models include tweezers for easy pin handling. Simply remove hex screws, swap pins, and you're ready to pick a new configuration.
I'm a complete beginner. Which practice lock should I start with?
For best value, the Dangerfield Mortise Repinnable Kit is ideal since it includes 30+ pins giving you maximum flexibility. If you're a visual learner, the Aerospace Cutaway lets you watch your picks interact with the pins. Start with just 2 pins in any lock, master that, then gradually add more.
Can I practice security pins like spools and serrated with these locks?
Absolutely. All three Dangerfield practice locks come with both standard and security pins including spools and serrated types. You can configure your lock with any combination: all standard pins for learning basics, or mix in security pins for advanced techniques like counter-rotation.
What are T-pins and why should I practice with them?
T-pins (also called barrel pins) are security pins with sharp shoulders that create more pronounced false sets than standard spools. They're found in mid-range to high-security locks. Practicing with T-pins teaches you to recognize the abrupt feedback they produce and master the controlled tension release needed to defeat them.
Why shouldn't I just practice on real locks around my house?
Practicing on locks in actual use risks damaging the mechanism, potentially locking yourself out or requiring a locksmith. Practice locks eliminate this risk while providing the same mechanical feedback. Plus, you can't adjust difficulty on a real lock. A repinnable lock lets you build skills progressively without frustration.
What lock picks work with these practice locks?
Any standard lock pick set will work perfectly. We recommend starting with the Dangerfield Praxis Lock Pick Set (516 reviews, ★★★★★) or a Lokko Lock Pick Box. A basic set with a selection of hooks and a tension wrench is all you need to begin your lock picking journey.
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Complete Your Training Setup
Pair your practice lock with these essential tools for the fastest skill development:
Dangerfield Praxis Lock Pick Set
Quality picks designed with world champions and professionals. Dual-gauge design covers all keyways. The perfect companion for your training lock.
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Lock Picking: The Visual Guide Book
178 pages with 190+ full-color illustrations. The fastest way to understand what's happening inside the lock. Written by professionals since 2007.
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Lock Picker's Vice Mk2
Free your hands for more realistic picking. Designed by lock pickers to hold locks tight without slipping. Essential for serious practice and repinning.
View ProductKeep Learning
Explore more guides and resources to improve your skills:
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Lock Picking
Start here if you've never picked a lock before. Covers the basics of tension, pin manipulation, and your first open. Written by Chris Dangerfield with decades of teaching experience.
Read the GuideTypes of Locks and How to Pick Them
Pin tumblers, wafer locks, disc detainers, tubular locks, and more. Learn what makes each type unique and the techniques required to defeat them.
Read the GuideBest Lock Pick Sets: Buyer's Guide
Not sure which picks to get? Our comprehensive buyer's guide breaks down the options by skill level and budget. From beginners to professionals.
Read the GuideI've met countless people who are masters of picking locks they're holding, but in a door they are next to useless! The vice mimics a lock in a door perfectly, so you're learning real transferable skills. Combined with the Praxis picks and a repinnable lock, this is the complete training setup.