Marco van Wijk
What are Anti-pick Pins?
Updated: Mar 31

Anti-pick pins are small but mighty tools that help enhance the security of cylinder locks. These pins are designed to make it difficult for lock pickers to manipulate the pins and unlock the lock. In this article, we will explore the world of anti-pick pins and how they work.
Cylinder locks are one of the most popular types of locks used today. They are commonly found in residential and commercial settings and are known for their durability and reliability. However, even the best cylinder locks can be vulnerable to lock picking.
Lock picking is a technique used to manipulate the pins in a lock to open it without using the correct key. It is a skill that is often associated with burglars and other criminals. Lock pickers use a variety of tools, including picks and tension wrenches, to manipulate the pins in a lock.
Anti-pick pins are designed to make it difficult, if not impossible, for lock pickers to manipulate the pins in a lock. These pins come in various shapes and sizes and are made from materials such as steel, brass, and titanium.
One of the most common types of anti-pick pins is the spool pin. Spool pins are designed to be wider in the middle than they are at the ends. This design makes it difficult for lock pickers to set the pin in the correct position. If the lock picker applies too much pressure to the pin, it will bind in the cylinder, making it difficult to turn.
Another type of anti-pick pin is the serrated pin. Serrated pins have serrations or grooves cut into the pin shaft. These grooves make it difficult for lock pickers to set the pin at the correct height. If the lock picker applies too much pressure to the pin, the serrations will catch on the cylinder, making it difficult to turn.
In addition to spool and serrated pins, there are also mushroom pins and barrel pins. Mushroom pins have a wider head than the shaft, while barrel pins have a barrel-shaped design. Both of these pins make it difficult for lock pickers to manipulate the pins in a lock.
Anti-pick pins are particularly effective when used in conjunction with other security measures. For example, using zero-bitted keys, which have no cuts or grooves on them, can further enhance the security of a cylinder lock. When used together, anti-pick pins and zero-bitted keys can make it extremely difficult for lock pickers to gain access to a property.
In conclusion, anti-pick pins are a valuable tool in the fight against lock picking. They are designed to make it difficult for lock pickers to manipulate the pins in a lock, enhancing the security of cylinder locks. By using anti-pick pins in combination with other security measures such as zero-bitted keys, property owners can ensure that their property is well-protected against break-ins and burglaries.