Essential Tools Guide for a Locksmith Shop


Based on years of professional experience, this document systematically outlines the core lock picking tools and key cutting machine required for a locksmith to

operate independently, serving as a reference for locksmith practitioners.

 

I. Transportation

1. Electric Scooter/Moped

– Preferred large scooter models, equipped with a foldable cargo rack.

– Should include a waterproof storage box with a backup battery pack to extend range.

2.Van (Recommended Configuration)

– Prioritize purchase if economically feasible to meet the demands of long-distance service calls.

– Enables mobile services such as automotive lockouts and on-site key cutting.

 

II. Basic Tools (Hardware)

Tool Types

Specifications and Usage Notes

Wire Cutters

Small size for easy portability

Screwdriver Set

Flathead/Phillips, center-through handle, magnetic tip, and striking cap functionality

Claw Hammer (1 lb)

Fiberglass handle; the claw end is used for removing anti-theft door protective covers

Flat Punch

Used for operations on door

Long-Nose Pliers/Locking Pliers

For gripping at special angles
Woodworking Chisel (Flat) Assists in lock installation

Headlamp

For illumination in dark environments

Peephole Pliers

Used instead of a punch to remove peepholes, preventing damage to door paint

Flat File/Half-Round File

For enlarging and refining lock cylinder prep holes
Lithium-ion Cordless Drill 18.4V or higher; equipped with HSS or alloy steel drill bits

III. Professional Lock Picking Tools

(A) Residential Lock Tools

South Korean 32-Piece Set: Includes automotive quick picks, flat read tools; essential for beginners.

Black Diamond Tool Set: Stainless steel cruciform (cross) three-piece set for high-security lock cylinders.

Combination Tool: Includes wafers pick tools; portable and efficient.

Cruciform/Star (Torx) Three-Piece Set: Preferably thickened magnetic type.

Peephole Terminator: Professionally dismantles peephole assemblies.

Perforation Tool: For opening specific lock cylinder types.

Automatic Door Quick-Opening Tool: Used with a hammer-style lock puller.

PTFE Tape (Thread Seal Tape): For sealing and temporary fixing.

 

(B) Automotive Lock Tools

Tool Name

Core Function and Notes

Air Wedge Kit

Includes feeler gauges/long-reach tools/trim tools for door gap manipulation
HU66 Original Quick Pick Specifically for internal milling (laser) cut keys (e.g., Mercedes-Benz series)
Vehicle Specific Tools Designed for the lock cylinder structures of particular brands
Pick & Decode Lock pick Configure decoding functions based on common local vehicle models
“Five Brothers” Quick Picks For opening conventional wafer locks (requires understanding of each tool’s characteristics)
South Korean 16-Piece Quick Picks Suitable for electric bikes/mopeds (lower tension, may not work on some automotive locks)
Glow-in-the-Dark Tension Wrench Assists operation in low-light conditions

IV. Key Cutting Machine Recommendations

Hunan Kukai Alpha Pro / Beta Series CNC Key Cutting Machines

Model Alpha Pro Beta Beta Pro
Size 305(W)*300(H)*400(D)mm 270(W)*300(H)*370(D)mm  270(W)*330(H)*370(D)mm
Weight 16kg 14kg 14.7kg
Blade Modification
Engraving Function
Progression
Battery
Photograph

 

Advantages:

1. Built-in huge key database including more than thousands of key profiles and millions of key code datum: 

86 international car brands; 86 Chinese car brands; 28 motorcycle brands; 231 single- sided house key brands; 14 tubular key brands and 102 dimple key brands.

 

2. Easy operation, suitable for beginners

3. Bringing higher repetitive positioning accuracy

4. 4-way jaw is compatible with more car keys and dimple keys

5. Progression/Slowly Decode/Adjustment/All key lost) and two cutting styles ( for dimple keys and single sided keys) are flexible to cut a key in different scene.

6. Lifelong free software upgrade (2-4 times per year) and 24-month machine warranty.

 

Professional equipment significantly enhances work efficiency and service quality, representing a core investment for technological advancement.

 

Operational Advice: Initially, configure tools based on the principle of “common use first” and gradually expand based on business focus (residential/automotive)

later. Maintain awareness of new lock technologies and update the tool inventory regularly.