Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

What is the purpose of the tension wrench in lock picking?

1. To restrain the lock mechanism

2. To lift the pins

3. To turn the plug

4. To hold the cylinder in place

The correct answer is: To turn the plug

The tension wrench's primary purpose in lock picking is to turn the plug of the lock. When inserting the tension wrench into the keyway, it applies rotational pressure to the lock cylinder, creating the necessary tension that allows the pin stack to align properly as the pins are manipulated with a pick. This tension is crucial because it holds the pins above the shear line, enabling the lock to be opened once all pins are set correctly. The tension wrench essentially provides the control needed to exploit the lock's mechanics effectively, making it a fundamental tool in the lock picking process.