How to Spot Security Pins on a Lock

Security pins are found in all types of locks. The purpose is to prevent anyone from unlocking the lock with another key; in addition, security pins are used to frustrate and deter lock pickers from attempting to break into any locked item. The spool pin, serrated pin and mushroom pin are the most common types of security pins found in locks. Each is different and used to deter thieves in their own way; once you know the difference between each type of pin you will easily be able to spot them when you look at any lock.

Instructions

- 1
  Spot a spool pin by locating the telltale appearance of the shaft. The spool pin features a smaller diameter at the center and a larger diameter at the ends of the shaft. In addition, the spool pin has a ridged edge at the top of the spool.
- 2
  Look inside the lock to find a mushroom pin by looking for a pin that significantly resembles a spool pin with the exception of a tapered edge around the top of the spool.
- 3
  Spot a serrated pin through the locking mechanism by looking through the key hole. The serrated pin looks very plain in comparison with the mushroom and spool pins. The real difference lies in the shaft; the serrated pin has a rigid shaft with dozens of grooves that makes it much more difficult to pick.

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