Mods: I figured this thread was ok, because I’m not giving out or asking for any information that could be used for evil. If its still A Bad Thing, I’m sorry, and please don’t bring out the goat.
I got my first set of real lockpicks by UPS last night! I am uber-excited. I am kind of a novice at this stuff, but I’ve been using MacGuyver-rigged stuff for years. Now all I need is for one of my friends to lock their keys in their house so I can demonstrate my skills!
<checking if home address is in my profile… nope!>
Cool! 
So, you´ve had time to practice with it?, any success?, you´ll order a blow-torch and dynamite set for those harder jobs next? 
Did you ever get that safe open?
Yes, I’ve practiced and can open 3 and 4 tumber locks (kwikset) with no difficulty, and have only slightly more trouble with 5 pinners.
Yes I got the safe open a few days ago. I’m looking for a new lock on ebay that is a little more secure.
Don’t say uber.
PLEASE? its an ugly, overused trendy noise. Thank you.
Very cool dude, color me jealous.
Well… I’ve got this Kryptonite bike lock with a cylinder lock mechanism lock that is virtually unpickable… 
goes off and puts her home address in profile
Congratulations, Gabe!
Gotta pen I can borrow?
In related news: I’ve got a new bike! 
You’ll probably enjoy this article from the February WIRED magazine.
One word of caution-your state or locality may consider possession outside of your home a misdameanor (possession of burglary tools) unless you’re in the biz, so I wouldn’t take them across town to show a friend.
See, my first thought was, “Oooh, CynicalGabe’s got a new 18” DHIBJD"
Oh man it hurts to blow Coka-Cola out of your nose…
Are you asking for trouble? I can’t believe you are asking for trouble!
I would keep them under lock and key untill or unless you are a certified registered locksmith. I wouldn’t even mention to anyone that I had them.
Most locks can be opened with a paper clip, pliers to bend it into shape and patience!
To paraphrase and old song, “A Paper Clip is Just a Paper Clip.”
Pro lock picks just make the job easier and faster.
In theory, I can rebuild my car’s engine with a phillips screwdriver. But the proper tools make it easier and faster. And more efficient. And less potential for self-injury.
BTW, one of my jobs is sort of a maintenance department, so I do have some justification for having them, if not full legal coverage of a license (yet - i still want to get licensed),