REGULAR ACL TRAINING SESSIONS IN PRAGUE – NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Great news for lockpicking enthusiasts! ACL training sessions are now accessible to the general public with prior registration. We have already held spring and autumn training sessions (2019) in Prague with public participation and are preparing monthly sessions for 2020 as well.
Come and experience the fascinating world of lockpicking! If you enjoy solving puzzles and have patience, we can help you open your first lock. This might be the first step on a long journey towards becoming a champion in lockpicking competitions or a specialist in developing more secure locks. Additionally, you will meet like-minded people and become part of a growing community.
Important: ACL training sessions are not open to the public without prior registration. Entry fee: 150 CZK (includes refreshments: coffee, tea, water) and age restriction 18+
TRAINING DATES 2020
| MONTH | DATE | LOCATION | TIME (FROM-TO) | CAPACITY | NOTE |
| JAN | 25.01.2020 (Sat) | Tesaříkova 1027/2, Prague – Hostivař | 14:00 – 18:00 | 20 spots | Vol. 07 |
| FEB | 22.02.2020 (Sat) | Tesaříkova 1027/2, Prague – Hostivař | 14:00 – 18:00 | 20 spots | Vol. 08 |
| MAR | Postponed indefinitely due to government restrictions |
Vol. 09 | |||
| SEP | 26.9.2020 (Sat) | Šimanovská 47, Prague – Kyje | 14:00 – 18:00 | 15 spots | Vol. 10 |
| OCT | Postponed indefinitely due to government restrictions |
Vol. 11 | |||
| NOV | Postponed indefinitely due to government restrictions |
Vol. 12 | |||
| DEC | Postponed indefinitely due to government restrictions |
Vol. 13 | |||
LOCKPICKING – THE ART OF OPENING LOCKS WITHOUT KEYS
Lockpicking refers to the non-destructive opening of locks without using a key. It is practiced by professionals, hobbyists, and competitive lockpickers.
There are several techniques for non-destructive entry, but in sport lockpicking, the most common tools used are lock picks. These sets are widely available for purchase, and owning or using them is not restricted by law, provided they are not used for illegal activities.
Unlike crowbars or drills, lockpicking tools require significant knowledge and extensive practice to be used effectively. At our training sessions, you can borrow tools, and if you decide to pursue lockpicking, we can advise you on purchasing your own set.
WHO PRACTICES LOCKPICKING AND WHY?
People from various backgrounds practice lockpicking, including locksmiths, students, doctors, bankers, and scientists. Many find it relaxing—a way to unwind from work stress or take a break from physically demanding jobs. Lockpicking is closely related to puzzle-solving, improves fine motor skills, and serves as excellent mental training.
ETHICAL QUESTIONS IN LOCKPICKING
But what about criminals? Does sharing lockpicking knowledge help thieves? Not at all. Criminals do not use non-destructive lockpicking. Instead, they rely on fast, destructive methods such as breaking doors or drilling locks. Revealing security vulnerabilities leads to better lock design, and lockpicking organizations frequently collaborate with lock manufacturers to improve security. In all areas of security, responsible full disclosure is far more effective than relying on security through obscurity, which only creates a false sense of safety.
ACL ETHICAL CODE:
- We only pick locks that belong to us or for which we have explicit permission from the owner.
- We never pick locks that secure properties or assets.
- We do not publish information that could be misused for illegal activities.
If you are not willing to follow these rules and are only interested in learning how to open used locks—whether yours or someone else’s—do not sign up for our training sessions. Instead, contact a professional locksmith. Join us in exploring the world of ethical lockpicking!