Manual vs. Electric Lock Pick Guns: What To Know

Locksmiths rely on effective tools to manage complex lock systems, and one such tool is a lock pick gun. Manual and electric varieties exist, and one is not necessarily better than the other. Read on to explore what to know about manual versus electric lock pick guns.

What Is a Lock Pick Gun?

A lock pick gun is a specialized tool that quickly and forcefully manipulates the internal mechanisms of locks. It operates on the principle of “bumping,” where a series of small, rapid movements cause the pins within the lock to align, allowing the bolt to be retracted without the original key.

Manual Lock Pick Guns

Manual lock pick guns require the locksmith to physically manipulate the tool to align the lock’s pins. Manual varieties come in the shape of a gun, with a trigger that must be pulled.

Manual pick guns can be quieter and are less prone to mechanical failures. Or, at the very least, they’re easier to fix yourself if something malfunctions.

Electric Lock Pick Guns

On the other hand, electric lock pick guns automate the process, using a motor to force the pins into place. This allows for more rapid, continuous bumps that can result in a faster entry.

Electric models usually look like cylinders—or the base of a lightsaber, if you will. The SouthOrd E500XT electric lock pick gun, for example, features the cylinder shape. Sometimes, they can look like small electric drills.

Which Is Better?

Both manual and electric lock pick guns are effective tools. However, what you should know is that they lend themselves to slightly different needs. Here are the best parts of going manual:

• More control
• Less force for more delicate locks
• Easier to fix
• Less expensive

And here are the top benefits of going electric:

• Much faster
• Higher tech
• More ergonomic

Based on these benefits, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to invest in an electric gun or stick with simple manual varieties. Either way, you’ll get an effective tool that will take your locksmithing to new heights.