http://www.safepage.com/picks/index.html
Well, now that you’ve checked that link out, what’s your take on it? It says that you have to be somehow involved in the locksmithing field to buy these tools/books but they have all kinds of beginner guides/tools…etc. I just want to learn how to pick locks as a hobby and maybe for a little fun at parties or something but if it’s really this much of a hassle then forget it. But ahhhh…note this line that could prove it to be not so much of a hassle: “Unfortunately, the code fails to definewhat constitutes a “bona fide locksmith” and the other professions listed.” So if I stretch the truth about my profession will they be able to prove it, and more importantly, does the government even really monitor/care about things like this? Any cites or personal experience would be greatly appreciated, thanks. Also please note that I am not trying to break any laws here, more like trying to get around this without breaking the law.
The disclaimer is not intended to prevent you from receiving the tools, really. It’s intended to reduce the vendor’s liability if someone turns round and sues them for supplying you with tools that were used in a robbery.
I’m absolutely sure that you could get these tools from that vendor. I’m also sure that if you get caught wandering round with them, or if the police find them in your house, you’ll be in a whole heap of trouble regardless of your good intentions. I don’t know whether possession of these items in itself is enough to get you up before a judge where you live, but you’ll certainly face some heayv-duty questioning about why you have them and about any unsolved robberies.
Best not to risk it.
Oh, I Am Not A Lawyer, obviously.
Well, like I said, I would mainly just piddle with these around the house and I would never try to use them to actually steal anything. I already checked up on the possesion thing and it’s perfectly legal to have them except for in a few select places including Washington D.C., maybe Illinois (?) and New Jersey (if they can be used to start cars) IIRC. So I’m just waiting for someone to come along with a cite for your “disclaimer” theory and I’ll go ahead and buy them. Thanks 
Mattk is correct. It is a cover your ass clause for this company. Local and state laws will differ. After looking at the site in detail I can say this. SOme of he tools the offer are nothing more than crap. While that which is not crap is priced way to high. There are a few reasonable items for workability and price, not many but a few.
The police do not intentionally go looking for someone with lockpicks, but get caught with them on your person and expect a lot of questions.
Keep in mind if you do purchase lockpicks they do take a good deal of practice. Some lock hardware out there is a breeze for the newbie to pick, and some will be a royal pain in the ass.
The best way to learn (and be able to by cost effectivly from a distributor) is to apprentice at a locksmith shop. I did this in High School 15 years ago.
Guess what I am still doing for a living?
there be my 2 cents,
Osip