Oblivion Lockpicks: The Best Places to Find, Buy, and Steal Them
Have you ever found yourself staring down a master-level lock in Oblivion, your pockets empty, and the tantalizing glimmer of treasure just beyond your reach? It’s a frustrating situation, one that many adventurers in Cyrodiil have experienced. Lockpicks are essential tools for any aspiring thief, explorer, or anyone who simply wants to access every nook and cranny the game has to offer. Whether you’re trying to join the Thieves Guild, uncover hidden secrets in ancient ruins, or simply gain access to a locked room, a steady supply of lockpicks is crucial.
This guide is your comprehensive resource for finding, buying, and even stealing lockpicks in Oblivion. We’ll explore the best merchants to visit, the most likely places to stumble upon these valuable tools during your travels, and even delve into the slightly less reputable methods of acquiring them. So, grab your adventuring gear and prepare to never be caught short again – let’s find you some Oblivion lockpicks!
Merchants Who Sell Lockpicks
One of the most reliable ways to replenish your stock of lockpicks is, of course, to simply buy them. Cyrodiil is filled with merchants eager to trade their wares for your hard-earned gold, and many of them regularly carry lockpicks. However, knowing exactly where to look can save you valuable time.
General Traders and Merchants
Several general goods merchants throughout Cyrodiil consistently stock lockpicks. These are your go-to shops for a quick restock while you are already visiting the city. For example, Luciana Galena in Bravil’s All Things Alchemical is often seen with a few lockpicks on hand, along with alchemy ingredients. The merchants in the market district of the Imperial City are also good options, such as Jensine of Jensine’s “Good as New” Merchandise.
Remember that merchant inventory can fluctuate, depending on factors such as the game’s economy and the merchant’s disposition. Always check back regularly, especially after the merchant has had a chance to restock. Buying lockpicks from general traders is a reliable method, but it may not be the most economical or plentiful.
Thieves Guild Fences
For those willing to embrace a slightly more… morally ambiguous path, joining the Thieves Guild unlocks a whole new world of opportunity when it comes to acquiring lockpicks. Joining the Thieves Guild provides access to fences, specialized merchants who deal in stolen goods and other illicit items.
These fences also often stock lockpicks, and in significantly larger quantities than your average general merchant. Ongar the World-Weary, located in Bruma, becomes a fence after you join the Thieves Guild, and he is a reliable source of lockpicks and other useful tools for any aspiring thief. Selling stolen goods to Ongar and buying lockpicks at the same time is an efficient method of funding your criminal lifestyle.
Buying from fences offers several advantages. Their prices are usually reasonable, and the sheer volume of lockpicks they have available means you can stock up without having to make multiple trips. Of course, joining the Thieves Guild is not for everyone, but for those who enjoy the stealth and intrigue of the criminal underworld, it’s an excellent way to ensure a constant supply of lockpicks.
Mages Guild Affiliates
Surprisingly, some members of the Mages Guild also deal in lockpicks, connecting to the illusion spells for manipulating locks and gaining entry. Though their primary focus lies with magical wares, the practical application of lockpicking, especially regarding security within guild halls and private residences, makes lockpicks a worthwhile inventory item for a handful of mage guild members.
These mages can be found within the various guild halls scattered throughout Cyrodiil’s major cities. They are a more niche choice, but can supplement a player who also uses magical approaches.
Finding Lockpicks in the World – Looting
While buying lockpicks is convenient, the frugal adventurer knows that scavenging and looting can provide a significant source of these valuable tools. Cyrodiil is a land filled with forgotten ruins, dark dungeons, and abandoned homes, and many of these locations hold hidden treasures, including lockpicks.
Dungeons and Ruins
Exploration is rewarded in Oblivion, and few places offer richer rewards than the dungeons and ruins that dot the landscape. Lockpicks are commonly found as loot within these locations, often tucked away in chests, crates, barrels, and even scattered amongst the bones of long-dead adventurers.
When exploring a dungeon, it’s crucial to be thorough. Check every container, even the seemingly insignificant ones. Lockpicks are often hidden in unexpected places, and a careful search can yield a surprising number of them. Keep an eye out for bandit camps and smuggler dens, as these locations often contain stashes of stolen goods, including lockpicks.
Remember that dungeon loot is often randomized, so you may not find lockpicks in every dungeon you explore. However, the sheer number of dungeons in Oblivion ensures that you’ll eventually stumble upon a significant supply of these tools.
Homes and Buildings
Don’t underestimate the potential of homes and other buildings as sources of lockpicks. While most homes are private residences, a few are abandoned or poorly secured, making them prime targets for looting. Even occupied homes can yield lockpicks if you’re skilled in the art of stealth.
Check drawers, shelves, and other containers for hidden lockpicks. Lower-class areas and districts with a higher crime rate are more likely to contain lockpicks, as the residents may be involved in illegal activities that require them. However, be mindful that taking items from homes is considered stealing, and you’ll face consequences if you’re caught.
Guards
It may sound morbid, but enemies can drop lockpicks. Guards patrolling the cities, and other fighters in the world, sometimes carry lockpicks to loot. Though the guard will be alerted if you attack them, be aware that this is still a potential source of lockpicks
Stealing Lockpicks
For those with a talent for stealth and a willingness to take risks, stealing lockpicks can be a fast and efficient way to acquire them. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved before attempting to pilfer these tools.
From Merchants
Stealing lockpicks from merchants requires a high Sneak skill and a steady hand. Wait until the merchant is distracted or alone, then crouch behind them and attempt to pickpocket them. The success of this attempt depends on your Sneak skill, the merchant’s perception, and the weight and value of the items you’re trying to steal.
It’s always a good idea to save your game before attempting to steal from a merchant. If you’re caught, you’ll face fines, imprisonment, and a damaged reputation. Increasing your Sneak skill can significantly improve your chances of success, as can using spells or enchantments that enhance your stealth abilities.
From NPCs
Stealing lockpicks from regular non-player characters is similar to stealing from merchants. The risks are the same, but the rewards may be less predictable. NPCs are less likely to carry large quantities of lockpicks, but you may find a few tucked away in their pockets.
Wait until the NPC is asleep or in a secluded area before attempting to pickpocket them. The cover of darkness can make it easier to avoid detection. Be prepared to run if you’re caught, as NPCs are often quick to alert the guards.
Important Note Regarding Consequences
Stealing in Oblivion has consequences. Getting caught will result in fines, imprisonment, and a negative impact on your reputation. Be prepared to face the consequences of your actions, or take steps to avoid detection.
Lockpick Skill and Durability
Lockpicks are a consumable item, and they can break during lockpicking attempts. The frequency with which your lockpicks break depends on your Security skill, the difficulty of the lock, and a bit of luck.
Lockpick Skill Impact
The Security skill governs your ability to pick locks. The higher your Security skill, the easier it will be to pick locks, and the less likely your lockpicks will be to break. Investing points into the Security skill is a worthwhile endeavor for any aspiring thief or explorer.
There are several ways to increase your Security skill in Oblivion. You can practice on difficult locks, find trainers who can teach you new techniques, and read skill books that provide valuable insights. The more you use the Security skill, the faster it will increase.
Lockpick Durability
Lockpicks are not indestructible. They can break during lockpicking attempts, especially when attempting to open difficult locks. The higher your Security skill, the more durable your lockpicks will be.
Certain enchantments and items can also improve your lockpicking ability and reduce the chances of your lockpicks breaking. Look for items that fortify your Security skill, or enchant your own equipment with similar effects.
Advanced Tips and Tricks
Here are a few advanced tips and tricks to help you maximize your lockpicking potential in Oblivion:
Duplication Glitches
(Note: This is included with a disclaimer)
There are known duplication glitches in Oblivion that allow you to create infinite copies of items, including lockpicks. However, using these glitches is considered cheating by many players, and it can potentially corrupt your game save. If you choose to use duplication glitches, do so at your own risk. This guide does not endorse, or encourage players to use glitches.
Security Skill Training
The fastest way to level up the Security skill is to find difficult locks and practice on them. Seek out master-level locks in dungeons or guarded areas, and attempt to pick them. Even if you fail repeatedly, you’ll gain valuable experience and improve your skills. Security trainers can also boost your skills.
Enchantments and Items
Keep an eye out for unique items and enchantments that can make lockpicking easier. The Skeleton Key, obtained during the Thieves Guild questline, is an unbreakable lockpick that can open any lock. Other items that fortify your Security skill can also be incredibly helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lockpicks should I carry?
The number of lockpicks you should carry depends on your playstyle and your Security skill. If you’re a novice thief with a low Security skill, you’ll want to carry a large supply of lockpicks, at least twenty or thirty. As your Security skill increases, you can carry fewer lockpicks, as you’ll be less likely to break them.
My lockpicks keep breaking! What can I do?
If your lockpicks are constantly breaking, focus on improving your Security skill. Practice on easier locks to gain experience, and seek out trainers who can teach you new techniques. You can also try using enchantments or items that fortify your Security skill.
Is it worth joining the Thieves Guild just for lockpicks?
Joining the Thieves Guild is a significant commitment, but it offers numerous benefits beyond just access to lockpicks. The Thieves Guild questline is engaging and rewarding, and it provides access to exclusive gear, skills, and opportunities. If you enjoy the stealth and intrigue of the criminal underworld, joining the Thieves Guild is definitely worth considering.
Where can I find a lot of lockpicks quickly?
One of the fastest ways to acquire a large supply of lockpicks is to visit a Thieves Guild fence. Fences typically stock a significant number of lockpicks, and they’re always eager to do business with members of the guild.
What does the Skeleton Key do?
The Skeleton Key is a unique item obtained during the Thieves Guild questline. It’s an unbreakable lockpick that can open any lock, regardless of its difficulty. The Skeleton Key is an invaluable tool for any aspiring thief or explorer, and it can make lockpicking significantly easier.
Conclusion
Lockpicks are an essential tool for any adventurer in Oblivion. Whether you choose to buy them, find them, or steal them, it’s important to maintain a steady supply of these valuable items. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any lock that stands in your way. Now, go forth and explore Cyrodiil, and uncover the secrets that lie hidden behind locked doors! What’s your favorite hidden treasure location that lockpicks helped you discover? Share your adventures in the comments below!
