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Are Lock-Picking Tools Legal?

Posted on : February 4, 2020

On our locksmith training courses, we cover a lot of material. Depending on the type of course you select, you’ll cover different levels of training. However, every course involves using specialist lock-picking tools and developing the skills you need to work, change, and manipulate locks.

But hang on – doesn’t that work bear an uncanny resemblance to ‘the bad guy’ in every film? Isn’t that how cartoon characters break into banks, vaults, and homes? There are some sensitive legal regulations when it comes to lock-picking tools. In today’s article, we’ll explain what those mean for you.

Will Lock-Picking Tools Make You a Criminal?

So are you a criminal for ordering your first set of lock-picking tools? Does lock-picking put you on a wanted list? And have MPL been breaking the law all this time, training up a gang of expert lock-pickers and locksmiths?

Of course we haven’t – and you’re not a criminal for purchasing lock-picking tools. But you still need to be careful.

To make extra sure that we’ve got this one correct, let’s look at the official wording from The Theft Act 1968. Section 25 states the following:

“A person shall be guilty of an offence if, when not at his place of abode, he has with him any article for use in the course of or in connection with any burglary or theft.”

So before you pack your lock-picking tools on holiday or stick them in your pocket and head to the pub, bear in mind that if you’re stopped in a public place and found to have lock-picking tools, then you’ll have some very difficult questions to answer.

While you’re technically breaking the law, non-suspicious activity is unlikely to get you in trouble. If you have the tools for your profession, then it shouldn’t be an issue. But other factors such as previous convictions and the time of day will all be considered.

For those interested in lock-picking but not necessarily a locksmith career, experimenting with lock-picking tools within your own home is technically legal. But is it a risk worth taking? If you’re found with these tools at the wrong time in the wrong place, the consequences could be severe. Nobody should be able to buy locksmith tools until they’re a fully accredited locksmith. These are the regulations that we work by at MPL Locksmith Training.

MPL Locksmith Training Courses

Why not enrol for a locksmith training course with MPL to make sure that you understand the legalities of locksmiths’ work? That way, you’ll have the suitable accreditations to show why you’re carrying lock-picking tools.

We still wouldn’t recommend carrying lock-picking tools in public, off-shift, but at the very least, your circumstances will not be suspicious.

We offer a range of locksmith training courses. Each of them is suited to trainees of every ability, ambition, and budget. You don’t need any accreditations to begin your training courses with us – just commitment and a desire to learn.

Even if you’re just looking to eliminate some bad habits and brush up on your skills, we have the training course for you. Choose from the following:

Our Specialist Locksmith Training Course in particular is fully accredited and is the most comprehensive course, giving you all the training and experience you need to begin a locksmith career.

You’ll use a wide range of different pick and entry tools. By the time you’ve completed any of our locksmith training courses, nobody will be doubting your professionalism.

Become a Professional Locksmith with MPL

We have more than two decades of experience with locks and lock-picking. In that time, we’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and experience. Those qualities are reflected in our training courses where you’re guaranteed a high standard of integrity, professionalism, and care.

In fact, we know locks so well that we manufacture and supply our own locksmith tooling.

Speak to our team today on 01924 693 293, and find out which course is the one for you.

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