North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a pick key?

1. To lock a door securely

2. To manipulate a locking system

3. To operate a lock or cylinder

4. To enhance a lockset’s security

The correct answer is: To operate a lock or cylinder

The purpose of a pick key is to operate a lock or cylinder. A pick key is a specially designed tool that locksmiths use to interact with the internal mechanisms of a lock without the need for the original key. By aligning the pins or discs inside the lock to their proper height, a pick key allows the locksmith to unlock it. This tool is particularly useful when the original key is lost or when a locksmith needs to gain access without causing damage to the lock. The other options, while they may relate to the broader context of lock operation and security, do not specifically describe the function of a pick key. For instance, while it is true that a pick key can be used to manipulate a locking system, its primary purpose directly focuses on operating the lock. Similarly, enhancing a lockset’s security does not pertain to the function of a pick key, as it is more about the design and effectiveness of the lock itself rather than tools used for access.