Challenge Locks: The Lockpicking Game Among Friends

Door Ties from Grimbergen · Last updated: October 2026

A challenge lock is a lock that a lockpicker has modified themselves to make it as difficult as possible, usually with security pins. You send it to another lockpicker as a challenge, along with the key. It’s one of the most enjoyable games within locksport.

In short:

• You take your own lock, disassemble it, and replace the standard pins with security pins.
• You learn just as much from making it as from picking it.
• Challenge locks are mainly exchanged within communities like Lockpickers United.

What exactly is a challenge lock?

Think of it as the difference between a puzzle from the store and a puzzle that someone has specially made for you. The creator adds extra traps and surprises. What I love about the lockpick community: we not only open locks, we also creatively challenge each other.

I made my first challenge lock years ago, and it was more addictive than I expected. You start with a simple lock, for example from ABUS, and replace the standard pins with security pins like spools, serrated pins, or homemade Frankenstein creations.

Why the community loves it

It’s social: you make something for someone else, and that person makes something for you. And it’s educational. When making, you have to think about what makes a lock difficult, how pins work together, and how to create false feedback. On the Discord of Lockpickers United, photos of new challenge locks are shared daily. Rightfully proud: it’s a work of art, a puzzle, and a challenge all in one.

Here’s how to make your first challenge lock

1. Choose a base lock. A cylinder lock is ideal: easy to disassemble and easy to repin.
2. Gather security pins. A Sparrows Reload Kit or loose pins and springs give you plenty of options.
3. Disassemble the lock. Use a plug follower so that the pins and springs don’t spring out, and a lockpick tweezers to hold small parts.
4. Mix and match your pins. Combine different security pins and choose a challenging key combination.
5. Test your creation. Check if the key works smoothly and if the lock can really be opened with picks.
6. Make it personal. Give the lock a name or feature, so the recipient knows who it’s from.

Which security pins do you use?

Some creators combine multiple shapes into one pin. A serrated spool, for example: just as nasty as it sounds.

The unwritten rules of the game

It’s about the challenge, not frustration. I once received a challenge lock where the creator had used thread locker on one pin. Technically still pickable, but it felt like cheating.

Exchanging challenge locks

At Lockpickers United, challenge locks are regularly exchanged. On lpulocks.com you will find a separate section for challenge locks: handy for inspiration, to find a challenge, or to share your own creation. You can read more about the community and the LPU belt ranking system in our LPU guide.

Tip: start exchanging within your own group. On the LPU Discord, you can easily find people who want to trade. Start small and build your reputation.

My first received challenge lock came from DeSlotenKraker. Five chambers, all different security pins, and a nasty key combination that kept confusing my picks. It took me three evenings. When that last click came and the cylinder turned: pure euphoria.

Here’s how to get started with challenge locks

For making

Start with a simple lock that you can modify, such as from the practice lock set. First, read how to set up a practice lock yourself: that’s exactly the same action.

For picking

Challenge locks require precision, so single pin picking is a must. Make sure to have a good hook pick set and a few different tension wrenches, as each lock requires a different tension.

The future of challenge locks

Increasingly, you see magnets and 3D-printed parts in challenge locks. But the core remains the same: creating and solving puzzles together. Whether you make a simple four-pin lock with two spools or a monster full of exotic pins, each challenge lock tells a story. My advice: start simple, share your lock, and ask for feedback.

Practice only on locks that are yours or for which you have permission – and never on locks that are in use. Also read if lockpicking is legal.

Frequently asked questions

What is a challenge lock?

A lock that a lockpicker has modified themselves to make it extra difficult, intended as a challenge for other lockpickers.

Which lock is suitable for making a challenge lock?

A cylinder lock that you can easily disassemble and repin. Only use a lock that is yours and not in use.

What do you need to make a challenge lock?

A base lock, security pins and springs, tweezers, and a plug follower.

Where can you exchange challenge locks?

Mainly within Lockpickers United, via Reddit and Discord, and on lpulocks.com.

Next step: Security pins in lockpicking: this is how they work