How Rare Is Lock Picking in Real Burglaries?

The Myth of the Master Lock Picker

In Hollywood thrillers, burglars are often depicted as shadowy figures deftly manipulating picks and tension wrenches to silently breach a door in seconds. It’s dramatic, it’s tense, and it makes for great cinema. But in the real world, how rare is lock picking in real burglaries? How often is picking the lock really a thing? Spoiler: not very often. In this post, we take a look at the data on crimes involving actual lock picking, compare its statistical probability to other entry methods, and explore advanced security features like spool pins and high-security restricted locks that can make your home even safer. Whether you’re a business owner or homeowner concerned about security or just curious about the facts behind the fiction, let’s unlock the truth.

Burglary Entry Methods: The Hard Numbers

To understand the role of lock picking in burglaries, we need to look at how criminals typically gain entry. According to comprehensive crime statistics, the vast majority of break-ins don’t involve the finesse of picking a lock. Instead, burglars opt for quicker, less skillful methods that minimize time and noise—key factors in avoiding detection.

Here’s a breakdown of common entry methods based on recent data from sources like the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program and security analyses:

1. Forcible Entry — 60.5% Involves breaking windows, kicking in doors, or using tools like crowbars to force entry.
2. Unlawful Entry (Non-Forced) — 33.2% Entering through unlocked doors or windows, which is often the easiest and most common approach. This can also include the use of an unauthorized duplicated key.
3. Attempted Forcible Entry –6.3%  Failed attempts at forced entry, where the burglar gives up or is interrupted.

These figures highlight a clear preference for brute force or opportunism over sophisticated techniques. Front doors are the most targeted entry point at 34%, followed by back doors (22%) and windows (23%). Unlocked entries account for a significant portion because many homeowners simply forget to secure their homes— a reminder to always double-check!

The Statistical Probability of Lock Picking: Rarer Than You Think

Now, where does lock picking fit into this? It’s a subset of non-forced entries, but the data shows it’s exceedingly rare. Studies and police reports estimate that only about 4% of burglaries involve lock picking or similar manipulative techniques. Some sources put it even lower, at fewer than 1% of all break-ins. To put that in perspective:

• You’re about 15 times more likely to experience a forcible entry than a picked lock (60.5% vs. ~4%).
• Compared to entering through an unlocked door or window (33.2%), lock picking is roughly 8 times less probable.
• Overall, the odds of a burglar picking your lock are lower than the chance of them smashing a window or prying a door—methods that are faster and require no specialized skills.

Why is lock picking so uncommon? Because, it takes practice (skill set development) and time—often several minutes per lock—which increases the risk of getting caught. Most burglars are opportunistic, targeting homes that appear empty and easy to access. In fact, the average burglary lasts just 8-10 minutes, with entry happening in seconds via force or unlocked points. Lock picking also leaves minimal evidence, but criminals rarely bother when simpler options exist. As one

locksmith forum discussion notes, techniques like cylinder snapping (common in some regions) are far more prevalent than picking in real crimes. I should also note that there are proven methods to minimize the threat of “cylinder snapping”, or “lock bumping”.

These probabilities vary by location and lock type, but the trend is consistent: lock picking is more myth than menace for the average homeowner. That said, in high-value targets or professional theft rings, it could be more common—though still not the norm.

Deterring Pickers: The Role of Spool Pins

If lock picking is rare, why bother with advanced defenses? Because when it does happen, standard pin-tumbler locks can be vulnerable to skilled individuals. Enter spool pins—a simple yet effective upgrade in many mid-to-high-security locks.

Spool pins are a type of security driver pin designed to thwart lock picking attempts. Unlike standard cylindrical pins, spool pins have a spool-shaped (or mushroom-like) design with a narrow waist and wider ends. When a pick is used, the pin can catch on the shear line (the gap between the lock’s plug and housing), creating a “false set.” This tricks the picker into thinking the pin is properly aligned when it’s not, causing the lock to bind further and requiring resets—frustrating and time-consuming.

Here’s how they work in practice:

• Standard Pins: Align easily at the shear line with picking.
• Spool Pins: The groove catches the edge, rotating the plug slightly and binding other pins, often leading to counter-rotation feedback on the tension tool.
• Effectiveness: They don’t make a lock unpickable, but they significantly increase the skill and time required, deterring casual or time-sensitive intruders.

Spool pins are entry-level security features found in locks from brands like Schlage or Yale. They’re often combined with other anti-pick elements like serrated or mushroom pins for added complexity. If you’re upgrading, look for locks rated UL 437 for pick resistance, which typically include such pins.

Going Further: High-Security Restricted Lock Options

For even greater protection, consider high-security locks with restricted keyways. These go beyond basic pin upgrades by controlling who can duplicate keys and adding physical barriers to manipulation.

A restricted keyway uses a patented or proprietary key profile that’s not available at standard hardware stores. Keys can only be copied by authorized locksmiths or the manufacturer, often requiring ID verification or signatures. This prevents unauthorized duplicates— a common vulnerability in standard locks where anyone can copy a key at a kiosk.

Key features include:

• Patent Protection: Keys like those from Medeco or ASSA are legally protected, making blanks hard to obtain illegally.
• Additional Mechanisms: Many incorporate sidebars, rotating pins, or magnetic elements that require precise alignment beyond standard picking.

Product Examples

• Mul-T-Lock: Combines restricted keys with telescoping pins for high resistance to picking, drilling, and bumping.
• ASSA Maximum+: Focuses on key control for government or commercial use, with restricted cylinders.
• Schlage Everest 29: Features an undercut design and check pin for enhanced security.
• Schlage Classic and Everest Primus: Employs a coded sidebar lock mechanism in addition to the standard pins and can also use spool or serrated top pins. This version of higher security lock cylinders integrate easily into existing master-keyed systems. Only those areas of higher concern need the Primus cylinders. Additional Primus keys are cut only with proper authorization and a registered Primus ID card.

These options are ideal for businesses and homes in high-crime areas or for valuables. While they cost more (starting around $50-400 per lock), they offer peace of mind by addressing not just picking but key control overall.

Wrapping Up: Secure Your Business or Home Beyond the Lock

How rare is lock picking in real burglaries? In summary, while lock picking makes for exciting stories, the data shows it’s a tiny fraction of burglaries—far less likely than a kicked door or open window. By understanding these probabilities, you can prioritize practical security: reinforce doors, install cameras, and always lock up. For those wanting extra layers, spool pins provide affordable anti-pick defense, and high-security restricted locks ensure key control and advanced protection.

Remember, no lock is invincible, but combining these with smart habits—like motion lights and neighborhood watches—dramatically reduces risks. Stay safe, and think twice before believing the movies!

Ready to upgrade your locks?

Give ApexAccess a call. We service the greater Colorado Springs, CO area. It is best to call by phone to set up an appointment or to just discuss any questions you may have about options.