Kwikset Smartkey Gen 3 - Picking - Overview of construction and use of tension tools.

Picking the Smartkey Gen 3 requires the use of specialised tension tools. This video goes over the construction and use of a pair of tension picks that simplify applying the necessary tension to the pins in order to pick the lock. Link to picking and gutting a Smartkey Gen 3 lock using these tools • KwikSet Smartkey Gen 3...

[@timmypo]

Thanks for the video, I’ve been trying at my own door for hours. My picking skills aren’t that great but I’ll have to buy a shim like your thin one for next time.

[@jamesozment1]

When i open mine i shall give you credit .

[@MattMaxwell]

Have you tried going over the top of the retainer and hitting the sidebar at the exposed point in the middle? It seems like it should be easier.

[@roo1yak]

Never tried that approach, heard it mentioned before but never seen a successful pick tensioning that way. I do find that you can bind pins progressively from the front by slowly inserting the tension pick further into the sidebar channel which is advantageous.

[@MattMaxwell]

@@roo1yak if you watch the LPL video of the gen3 then he uses a shim over the top.

[@roo1yak]

Just watched it, shows there are many ways to attack this lock. A conversation I recently had with another picker suggested you can use the 'rekeying' inlet as well. Cheers for the comment.

[@camronbay1]

On the knob sets I use a small punch and punch a hole in the back of the plug and use a Allen wrench to turn the spindle to open the knob. The newest deadbolts have a block in the tail piece to prevent the punch method from working.

[@jaytripoli2057]

Thanks for the great video! What magical land do you live in?

[@roo1yak]

The great land downunder - Australia

[@ChristiannTyler]

Very interesting, Did you make those tools? Been looking online trying to find some if not where did you get the material to make them?

[@roo1yak]

Yes, I made them. Main tool is made of spring steel with a 3d printed handle, has become a bit more malleable with repeated bending and shaping. Thin tool is from a softdrink can.

[@nooneshero9819]

Thank you! What kind of thin shim is that

[@uncletacosupreme7023]

The side bar is super small in mine.