Locksmith Test #3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which type of pick is employed when raking?
- 3/4 (Correct answer)
- Hook
- Half Diamond
- Ball
Correct answer: 3/4
Raking is a lock-picking technique that involves rapidly moving a pick with multiple humps or contours across the pins while applying tension. The '3/4' pick, often referring to a rake like a Bogota or similar multi-humped design, is ideal for this method. Its shape allows it to manipulate several pins simultaneously, attempting to set them by chance.
Question 2: When a security pin is picked, what happens?
- The lock is picked
- The keyway moves slightly forward (Correct answer)
- The keyway moves slightly backward
- Nothing
Correct answer: The keyway moves slightly forward
Security pins, such as spool, mushroom, or serrated pins, are designed to create false sets or give misleading feedback during picking. When a security pin is correctly manipulated, the plug (keyway) will often give a slight, characteristic 'false set' rotation, moving slightly forward. This indicates that a security pin is binding and needs further manipulation before the true shear line is reached.
Question 3: Which tension wrench is appropriate for high-security locks?
- Regular
- Double Prounged
- Lightweight (Correct answer)
- Double ended
Correct answer: Lightweight
High-security locks often feature tighter tolerances and complex pin configurations, including various security pins. A lightweight or 'featherweight' tension wrench allows for very subtle and precise control over the rotational pressure applied to the plug. This delicate touch is crucial for feeling the nuanced feedback from security pins and avoiding over-tensioning, which can bind the pins excessively.
Question 4: In a lock, where are the pins located?
- Top (Correct answer)
- Bottom
- Middle
- Side
Correct answer: Top
In a standard pin tumbler lock, the pins are housed vertically within the cylinder. The driver pins are located in the upper part of the cylinder (the housing), and the key pins are in the lower part (the plug). When a key is inserted, it aligns the key pins and driver pins at the shear line, allowing the plug to turn.
Question 5: What purpose does the 3/4 pick serve?
- Double Picking
- Tension
- Individual Pin
- Raking (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Raking
The 3/4 pick, often a type of rake, is specifically designed for the raking technique in lock picking. Its undulating profile allows it to quickly manipulate multiple pins simultaneously by scrubbing it back and forth in the keyway. This method aims to 'bounce' the pins into their set positions by chance, making it a fast, non-precision picking approach.
Question 6: A lockset known as a passage set has
- Is not lockable (Correct answer)
- Has knobs on one side of the door
- Has knobs that do not turn
- Consists of locking knobs
Correct answer: Is not lockable
A passage set is a type of door hardware designed for doors that do not require locking, such as closet or hallway doors. It consists of two knobs that turn to operate a latch, allowing the door to open and close. However, it lacks any locking mechanism like a keyway or a thumb turn, meaning it cannot be secured.
Question 7: Which lock brand can a K1 or L1054B key blank fit?
- Chicago
- Schlage
- Master (Correct answer)
- Weiser
Correct answer: Master
The K1 and L1054B are common key blank designations specifically associated with Master Lock products. These blanks are designed to fit the keyways of various Master Lock padlocks and other locking devices. Locksmiths use these specific designations to identify and cut keys for Master brand locks.
Question 8: How many feet above the surface of the landing must the side rails of the portable ladder extend in order to access an upper landing area?
- 3 (Correct answer)
- 4
- 5
- 6
Correct answer: 3
According to OSHA safety regulations, for safe access to an upper landing, the side rails of a portable ladder must extend at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) above the landing surface. This extension provides a secure handhold for users when stepping on or off the ladder, significantly reducing the risk of falls.
Question 9: What connects a mortise lock to a mortise cylinder?
- Clamps
- Scalp plate
- Threads on the cylinder and a set screw (Correct answer)
- Screws
Correct answer: Threads on the cylinder and a set screw
A mortise cylinder is threaded on its exterior, allowing it to screw directly into the mortise lock body. Once the cylinder is threaded into place to the correct depth, a small set screw, typically located on the faceplate of the mortise lock, is tightened. This set screw engages with a groove on the cylinder, preventing it from unscrewing and securing it firmly within the lock body.
Question 10: What kind of tumbler is used most frequently in file cabinet locks?
- Short water (Correct answer)
- Pin tumbler
- Master pin
- Long wafer
Correct answer: Short water
File cabinet locks commonly utilize wafer tumblers, and specifically, 'short wafer' tumblers are prevalent in these applications. Wafer tumblers are flat, spring-loaded plates that must be aligned by the key to allow the plug to turn. The term 'short wafer' refers to the specific size and configuration of these tumblers used in typical file cabinet mechanisms.
Question 11: A qualified technician or salesperson may only be employed in the following capacities:
- A NICET II-certified technician
- A licensed manager (Correct answer)
- The shop foreman
- Another licensed technician
Correct answer: A licensed manager
In many jurisdictions, certain roles within a locksmithing business, especially those involving supervision, management, or direct responsibility for licensed activities, require the individual to hold a specific license. A licensed manager ensures compliance with industry standards and legal regulations, providing accountability for the services offered.
Locksmith Test #3
Which type of pick is employed when raking?