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.