ALOA Lock Picking and Bypass Techniques

Question 1

Which lock picking technique involves applying light rotational tension to the plug while manipulating pins individually?

Accepted Answer

Single Pin Picking (SPP)

Answer

Single Pin Picking (SPP) applies light tension to the plug while individually lifting each pin to the shear line.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a tension wrench when picking a pin tumbler lock?

Accepted Answer

To rotate the plug slightly to create a shear line offset

Answer

The tension wrench applies slight rotational pressure to the plug, creating a ledge that pins can set on as they reach the shear line.

Question 3

Which bypass tool is specifically designed to slide between a door and frame to retract a spring latch bolt?

Accepted Answer

Loid / credit card tool

Answer

A loid (or shim/credit-card-style tool) slips between the door and strike to push back an unguarded spring latch bolt.

Question 4

What is 'bumping' in the context of lock picking?

Accepted Answer

Using a specially cut bump key struck with force to momentarily bounce pins above the shear line

Answer

Bumping uses a bump key cut to the deepest bitting, struck with a mallet so kinetic energy launches driver pins above the shear line long enough to rotate the plug.

Question 5

Which picking method uses a serrated pick moved rapidly in and out of the keyway to randomly set multiple pins?

Accepted Answer

Raking

Answer

Raking uses a serrated or wavy pick moved quickly in and out while applying tension, relying on random pin setting rather than precision.

ALOA - Associated Locksmiths of America Practice Test

ALOA - Associated Locksmiths of America Practice Test

ALOA Lock Picking and Bypass Techniques