The method of picking open a lock has been around since the 1700s, and many companies have introduced successful picks into the market. The latest is a lineup of automotive picks from WedgeCo, and we recently got our hands on these tools to give them a tryout.
The lineup includes three tools, the 2000 series tension wrench, the 4000 series four-blade red handle pick, and the 6000 series four-blade black handle pick. (Image 1) The 4000 series and 6000 series are identical in shape but differ in length, with the 4000 series being the shorter of the two picks evaluated at 1-3/4 inches. The 6000 series pick measures 2 inches in length.
The picks are easy to use and best used on double-sided auto locks that don’t contain a split wafer, because the picks will jam the split wafers in the lock cylinder. WedgeCo says the tools are meant for Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford and Jeep automobiles but not Chevy or GMC vehicles that have sidebar locks. The lock we tested was a 2005 Ford F-150 driver side door lock.
We found the WedgeCo picks easy to use and comfortable to hold, and the products are well-constructed from heavy-duty stainless steel for long-lasting use.
The tools’ four-blade pick design allows for the blades to compress in the lock cylinder, which provides enough stability for ease of picking when used with the 2000 series tension wrench. (Images 2 and 3) Picking open the F-150 cylinder with the 4000 series or 6000 series picks took only a few minutes each time.
More information on WedgeCo products can be found at www.wedgeco.com or via text to 425-881-7777.
Herman Manzanares III, RL, is co-owner of Los Alamos Lock & Key in Los Alamos, New Mexico. He has more than 25 years of locksmith experience. He can be reached via the web at www.losalamoslock.com.
