Lockpicking

In collaboration with Aéroports de Montréal adm

Lock-picking workshop. Come try your skill at picking locks with a variety of tools. Tips and tricks with lots of different locks to try.

What is lockpicking?

Lockpicking is the art of opening a lock through the analysis and manipulation of its components without using a key intended to open the lock.

The process is generally non-destructive and covert and is contrasted with various forms of destructive entry.

Lockpicking is a useful skill that can be a lifesaver when keys are lost or you’re locked out.

The most common kinds of locks, tumbler locks, can be picked with simple tools, patience, and a little knowledge.

Village schedule

  • Friday: 10am to 7pm
  • Saturday: 10am to 5pm (Tournament finale at 3pm)

Tournament

You have lock-picking skills? Are you up to the challenge to compete in the tournament?

Pre-qualifications

  • The pre-qualification is open until saturday 1pm
  • You have to open a series of locks to prove you can attempt the qualification stage
  • Successful candidate gets an attempt at the qualification round in order of first come, first served
  • You cannot use bump keys, picking guns or any other automatic picking tools

Qualification

  • The qualification is open until saturday 2pm
  • You have 20 minutes for the qualification
  • Your attempt is timed, this time will be used as a tie breaker
  • The qualification box is composed of 6 incrementally difficult locks
  • Locks are assigned points in increments of 5 (5, 10, 15, …)
  • You can only attempt the qualification once, your result is the one used for classification
  • To compete in the finale, you must leave your contact information so we can contact you saturday pm
  • You cannot use bump keys, picking guns or any other automatic picking tools

lockpick-challenge

Finale

  • Finalists will be contacted between 2pm and 2h30pm on saturday
  • The finale will be held at 3pm on saturday
  • The best 3 qualified players, available on-site, will be allowed to enter the finale
  • The finale consist of 3 incrementally difficult locks to open, in order of difficulty
  • All 3 players will make their attempt at the same time
  • Station will be given at random using the “shortest straw” method
  • The finale will run for a maximum of 30 minutes
  • Winner is the first to open all 3 locks or the best time opening the most locks
  • You cannot use bump keys, picking guns or any other automatic picking tools

Prizes

  • Qualification
    • Contestants successfully opening the box gets an exclusive token
  • Finale
    • First place: Hackfest 2026 free pass + Hackfest swag + Champion bragging right
    • Second place: Hackfest baseball cap or winter cap
    • Third place: Hackfest glass or cup