It's illegal to buy lockpicks online the in US? (non-smiths)

[Tech32]

Hey guys, new poster here. Been reading a long time and decided to sign up to post this. I've used the search function and have read the law thread and did not see this. If this is still in the wrong place, I'll will delete the post (is that possible on these forums?)

TITLE 39 > PART IV > CHAPTER 30 > § 3002a

§ 3002a. Nonmailability of locksmithing devices


Release date: 2003-06-24

(a) Any locksmithing device is nonmailable mail, shall not be carried or delivered by mail, and shall be disposed of as the Postal Service directs, unless such device is mailed to—
(1) a lock manufacturer or distributor;
(2) a bona fide locksmith;
(3) a bona fide repossessor; or
(4) a motor vehicle manufacturer or dealer.
(b) For the purpose of this section, “locksmithing device” means—
(1) a device or tool (other than a key) designed to manipulate the tumblers in a lock into the unlocked position through the keyway of such lock;
(2) a device or tool (other than a key or a device or tool under paragraph (1)) designed for the unauthorized opening or bypassing of a lock or similar security device; and
(3) a device or tool designed for making an impression of a key or similar security device to duplicate such key or device.

This is basically to say, buying picks online is illegal through out the entire U.S. for anyone who isn't a lock smith? I thought this obscure because I had bought a starter set just earlier today and the website I ordered through mentioned nothing about terms of use or policies that had to be withheld. Can anyone verify this? Am I reading this wrong?

http://assembler.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode39/usc_sec_39_00003002---a000-.html

I found this when I noticed there weren't any pick sets available on ebay. Turns out, after reading the rules, that they're not allowed because it's illegal to ship them in the United States. Do these website just assume you'll get away with it and assume the buyer is knowledgable of the laws and is actually a lock smith?

If anyone is questioning my reason for buying them, it's because I've been wanting to persue a hobby and the puzzle-aspect of locksmithing has always been interesting to me. I'm by no means wishing to bypass the law and I hope I didn't break any laws by making my earlier purchase.

[benzy2]

What it really is saying is that unless you have the proper documentation that you are a locksmith you cant send it through the USPS. You can have it shipped through UPS or Fedex. I dont think you would face criminal charges if you send it through the USPS but im pretty sure they will confiscate the picks if discovered.

[salzi684]

I always found lockpicks.com's definition of a bona fide locksmith interesting
http://www.lockpicks.com/index.asp?Page ... ustom&ID=1
although I doubt if it would hold up.

[maldotcom2]

I got my picks from lockpicks.com using USPS and only took a week too and im in australia...good run of luck maybe?

[don-the-pick]

Depends where you are in what state etc

[Mr Ules]

The rules regarding proper documentation only applies when using the United States Postage system. As mentioned earlier in this discussion, the picks can be sent via UPS or Fed Ex. However, possession of lockpicks all depends on where you live, and, not all packages are screened. This discussion took place in the general questions section of this site and the topic was stopped at customs. The converstation was betweeen myself and Romstar. In that section the rules and methods of shipment is clearly outlined. By the way, you don't need to read the whole topic because the discussion isn't that long. Just look through the pages until you see a conversation which consists primarily of myself and Romstar. Hope this information helps you out.