Follow Fernando Olivares on Twitter: https://twitter.com/fromjrtosr

References:

• https://isccompanies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Keyway-and-Key-Size-Dimensions.pdf
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lock_picking
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Combination_lock
• https://sophieh.itch.io/sophies-safecracking-simulator
• https://xkcd.com/538/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locksport
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Open_Organisation_Of_Lockpickers
• https://locksmithingschool.com/how-to-become-a-locksmith-in-california/

Errata:

• There is no one standard thickness, it all depends on the key. Most of my keys are about 1.75 mm thickness.
• According to Wikipedia, possession of lock picks is legal in states like: Arizona, California, Utah, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Washington D.C., Washington State, and New York. (Do double check the laws before you decide to purchase a lock picking set.)
• Lock picking can be considered as a sport if done without malicious intent.
• There is no one specific lock picker organization where all lock pickers become to. Those who want to become a locksmith will need to have a locksmith contractor license, specifically in California. (You will need to check with your own state laws.)
• The Open Organization of Lockpickers (TOOOL) is an organization that host lock picking competitions as a sport.