This is a dumb question but...

[l0cked0ut]

I hear everyone saying that you should get deadbolt locks to practice on. Why couldnt someone practice on a lock in their home, such as a closet lock or something for free? I know you cant take them apart or manipulate them, but in any home there are usually several to try out. I know the answer is probably obvious but I guess Im wondering if it makes sense to practice on actual locked doors?

My other question: Where can I find the best prices for a pick set. Are pick pens (such as the one pictured on the top left of the website) a good beginner tool? Thank you

[helix]

If you need to practice on a lock that is on your door, it tells us that
you don't have other locks.

If you don't have any other locks, it tells us that
you haven't been picking locks very well.

If you haven't been picking locks very long, it tells us
you aren't any good.

If you aren't any good, it tells us that you will be more at risk of
breaking a pick off in your lock THAT PROTECTS YOU AT NIGHT.

Just go get a practice lock.
Have a look in the Buy and Sell forum of this site.
Have a look at Lockpickshop.com

Their website is on the left, the one flashing at you.

[helix]

Fourth line of above post should read:

you haven't been picking locks very LONG.

[l0cked0ut]

hehe, well i havent picked locks AT ALL, which is why i didnt realize the risk of damaging a lock. Didnt know that I would be able to break a lock by practicing with it.

And as for the Pick pen. Good choice for a beginner?

[helix]

If you post a picture of it or a link to it, people will be able to help more.

If it has detatchable ends for it, get a good quality one.
For a beginner, I'd use a 'one-piece' pick rather than a
pick that may 'pivot' on itself where it joins the pen bit.

Like I say, post a picture of it as I'm just guessing what it
would be like.

[treboR]

He is talking about the pen at the top left of this page.
I think a small set of single picks is a much better choice for anyone(not just a beginner).

You might try going to some different locksmiths and asking if they have any old locks you can have or purchase cheaply. Or ask you friends and family for old padlocks(i have gotten a few this way).

[l0cked0ut]

i actually think i can acquire some locks (just the lock mechanism) but I think their shlauges (spelling?) Anyway, Im going to order a pick set tonight and then get those locks at some point.

[Chucklz]

Schlage

[l0cked0ut]

thanks, shlage. And i still havent ordered the picks. Im bargain shopping.