Oblivion: Where To Buy Lockpicks – A Comprehensive Guide

Venturing through the vast landscapes of Cyrodiil in *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*, you’ll quickly discover the importance of resourcefulness and the right tools. And few tools are as essential for a budding adventurer, a cunning thief, or even a noble hero as the humble lockpick. Whether you’re trying to liberate stolen goods from a bandit’s chest, access a hidden chamber in an ancient ruin, or simply unlock a door blocking your path, knowing where to buy lockpicks is crucial for your survival and success. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of where to find these vital tools throughout Oblivion, covering early-game options, mid-game suppliers, and even less-than-reputable sources, helping you become a master locksmith – or at least survive your next dungeon crawl. From bustling marketplaces to shadowy guildhalls, we’ll uncover the best locations for securing your next set of lockpicks, ensuring you’re always prepared to tackle any locked obstacle that comes your way.

Lockpicking is one of the most useful skills in the game and it allows you to complete questlines that otherwise might not be accessible, but it’s hard to do any of that if you don’t have lockpicks.

Early Game Lockpick Locations Accessible From The Start

At the beginning of your Oblivion journey, finding reliable sources for lockpicks can be challenging. Resources are scarce, and your pockets are likely empty. Fortunately, several locations offer access to lockpicks relatively early in the game, even before you’ve established yourself as a renowned adventurer.

General Goods Merchants in Cyrodiil’s Cities

The most straightforward method for acquiring lockpicks is to visit general goods merchants in the major cities of Cyrodiil. These merchants typically stock a variety of items, including lockpicks, making them a convenient starting point.

The Imperial City Market District, the heart of Cyrodiil’s commerce, is a prime location to begin your search. Thoronir, the proprietor of The Copious Coinpurse, is often a good choice, regularly stocking lockpicks and other essential adventuring supplies. His shop is conveniently located and easily accessible, making it an ideal first stop.

Bravil, a city with a slightly shadier reputation, also offers a few options. While perhaps not as outwardly reputable as the Imperial City, the general goods vendors here are just as eager to take your Septims in exchange for much needed equipment. It is worth taking a look when you arrive.

Cheydinhal, another significant city, is home to similar merchants who can provide you with lockpicks. Checking with the local vendors will likely yield positive results, particularly those that tend to deal in supplies.

These early-game merchants offer a reliable, if not always abundant, source of lockpicks to get you started on your adventure. Regularly checking their inventories is a good habit to form.

Your Starting Dungeon Imperial Prison

Don’t overlook your immediate surroundings! The Imperial Prison, where your adventure begins, holds a limited number of lockpicks that can be found if you’re observant. Search the bodies of fallen guards and explore any containers you encounter. While the quantity is limited, these initial lockpicks can be invaluable for escaping the prison and setting you on your path. Remember, every little bit helps when you’re starting out with nothing. Use them wisely!

Leveling Up

Containers will often have items of varying value, this includes lockpicks. As you level up, containers will start spawning lockpicks in them, this is a great and almost passive way of gathering lockpicks without having to find or buy them from a vendor.

Mid-Game Lockpick Sources As You Explore Further

As you progress through Oblivion, your character will become stronger, richer, and more capable of exploring the more dangerous regions of Cyrodiil. This increased freedom also unlocks new and more reliable sources for acquiring lockpicks.

More Specialized Merchants

Once you’ve gained some experience and perhaps joined one of the guilds, you’ll have access to specialized merchants who cater to specific needs. These merchants often have a larger stock of lockpicks than general goods vendors.

Mages Guild Halls are a great place to find some things that you otherwise would not find. A lot of vendors that have access to Mages Guild halls tend to carry lockpicks. So that might be worth a look.

Fighters Guild Halls, like the Mages Guild, also provide opportunities to find specialized vendors who may stock lockpicks. While not as common as in Mages Guild Halls, it’s still worth checking the inventories of merchants associated with the Fighters Guild.

Thieves Guild Once Joined

Joining the Thieves Guild opens up a whole new world of opportunities, not least of which is access to a steady supply of lockpicks. As a member, you’ll gain access to fence vendors, who often carry a wide range of illicit goods, including lockpicks. These vendors offer a reliable source, especially for players who embrace a more “shadowy” playstyle. Also, the Thieves Guild questline provides lockpicks and tools as part of the quests.

Dungeon Loot

As you delve deeper into Cyrodiil’s many dungeons, keep an eye out for lockpicks. They are commonly found in chests and on the bodies of bandits and marauders. Bandit caves and ruined forts are particularly good places to search, as these locations often house numerous enemies carrying lockpicks. Remember to thoroughly explore every nook and cranny, as you never know where you might find your next stash of these essential tools.

Less Legitimate Sources and Methods Proceed With Caution

For those who prefer a less conventional approach, several less-than-legitimate methods exist for acquiring lockpicks. However, these methods come with risks and potential consequences.

Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is a risky but potentially rewarding method for obtaining lockpicks. If your Sneak skill is high enough, you can attempt to pilfer lockpicks from unsuspecting NPCs. However, be warned: getting caught can result in fines, imprisonment, or even a bounty on your head. It’s a gamble, but one that can pay off handsomely if you’re skilled and lucky.

Killing NPCs

As a last resort, some players resort to killing NPCs to obtain their lockpicks. Bandits, thieves, and other unsavory characters often carry lockpicks, making them tempting targets. However, this method carries significant consequences, including murder counts and potential negative impacts on your character’s reputation. Only consider this option if you’re prepared to face the consequences of your actions.

Tips For Using Lockpicks Effectively

Acquiring lockpicks is only half the battle. Knowing how to use them effectively is equally important. Here are some tips to help you become a master locksmith.

Skills And Attributes

The Security skill governs your ability to pick locks. Leveling up this skill will make lockpicking significantly easier. The higher your Security skill, the wider the “sweet spot” on the tumblers, and the longer you’ll have to react. Additionally, the Luck attribute can also influence your lockpicking success, increasing your chances of bypassing difficult locks. Invest in these areas to become a more proficient locksmith.

Repairing Lockpicks

Lockpicks are fragile and can break easily, especially when attempting to pick difficult locks. To avoid wasting your precious supplies, make sure to repair your lockpicks regularly using Armorer skill. Keeping your lockpicks in good condition will significantly increase their lifespan and your overall success rate.

Spells

Another option is learning “Open Lock” spells. These spells allow you to bypass locks without using lockpicks, offering a convenient alternative. However, these spells require Magicka and may not be as reliable as lockpicks, especially at higher levels.

Conclusion

Lockpicks are an indispensable tool for any adventurer in *Oblivion*. Whether you prefer to purchase them from reputable merchants, scavenge them from dungeons, or acquire them through less-than-legal means, knowing where to find them is essential for your success. So, remember to stock up regularly, practice your Security skill, and explore the hidden corners of Cyrodiil. With a little knowledge and perseverance, you’ll be cracking even the most challenging locks in no time.

What are your favorite lockpicking tips for *Oblivion*? Share them in the comments below!