Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using a pick with a rake design?

1. To lift all the pins simultaneously

2. To create tension

3. To set a single pin

4. To hold the lock in a position

The correct answer is: To lift all the pins simultaneously

The purpose of using a pick with a rake design is primarily to lift all the pins simultaneously. A rake pick is characterized by its comb-like structure, which allows it to quickly move across the pins inside a lock. When it is used in conjunction with tension applied to the lock, the rake can effectively manipulate the pins, helping them reach the shear line all at once. This technique works well with pin tumbler locks, where multiple pins need to be lifted to the correct height for the lock to open. The design of the rake allows for a faster approach to picking compared to traditional single-pin picking methods, which focus on setting each pin individually. While creating tension is essential during the lock picking process, it is not the primary purpose of the rake design itself. Similarly, setting a single pin or holding the lock in a position does not characterize the function of a rake pick, which aims to engage multiple pins at once to expedite the process of unlocking.