Lockpicking is an essential part of exploration and looting in Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. From treasure-filled chests to locked doors hiding quest rewards, you’ll find countless opportunities to put your Security skill to the test. But none of that matters without one thing: lockpicks. If you’re wondering where to get lockpicks in Oblivion, this guide covers every reliable method, from buying and looting to earning infinite lockpicks through quests.
How Lockpicks Work in Oblivion
Lockpicks are single-use tools that allow you to open locked containers, doors, and gates using the Security minigame. When your pick breaks, it’s gone, so it’s smart to carry a decent supply—especially if your Security skill is low.
You’ll burn through them fast on Hard and Very Hard locks, so knowing where to restock is a must.
Where to Get Lockpicks in Oblivion
1. From the Thieves Guild (Armand Christophe or Ongar)
Once you begin the Thieves Guild questline, you’ll gain access to merchants who sell lockpicks regularly.
- Armand Christophe – Found in the Imperial City Waterfront. He gives you your first lockpicks and guides you into the guild.
- Ongar the World-Weary – Located in Bruma. After joining the guild, you can sell stolen goods to him and buy lockpicks.
Guild fences are the most consistent and legal way to keep your inventory stocked.
2. From Shady Sam (Best Early-Game Option)
Shady Sam is a secret NPC who lives just outside the Imperial City walls, near the northwest side of the city. He’s not affiliated with any guild and sells lockpicks to anyone, even if you’re not part of the Thieves Guild.
- He’s available 24/7
- Sells lockpicks for 6 gold each
- You can buy up to 30 lockpicks at once
- Great early-game method for stealthy characters
To find him: Exit the Imperial City through the northeast gate, then follow the wall west. You’ll find him hiding among the trees.
3. Looting Bandits, Thieves, and Dungeons
Lockpicks sometimes appear in loot containers and on enemies:
- Bandits and thieves often carry 1–3 lockpicks
- Locked chests may contain a few picks
- Certain guild hideouts or forts may have stashes
This method is unreliable for bulk supply, but it’s a nice bonus when adventuring.
4. From City Jail or After Arrest
Strangely enough, you might find lockpicks while in jail—or even receive some if you’re arrested during a Thieves Guild mission. Some versions of the game drop 1–2 lockpicks in your inventory upon release if you’re part of the guild.
Keep in mind: this only happens under specific conditions and should not be relied on.
5. Infinite Lockpick: Skeleton Key (Daedric Artifact)
Once you’re level 10 or higher, you can start the Nocturnal Daedric Quest, which rewards you with the Skeleton Key—an unbreakable lockpick that also boosts your Security skill by +40.
To start the quest:
- Go to Nocturnal’s Shrine (located between Leyawiin and Bravil)
- Offer 1 nightshade, 1 flawless pearl, and 1 gold nugget
- Complete the short quest and claim the Skeleton Key
This is by far the best option if you’re tired of farming or buying lockpicks.
Tips for Managing Lockpicks
- Save before trying Hard or Very Hard locks to avoid wasting picks
- Practice on Easy locks to improve your Security skill
- Consider using spells or scrolls with Open Lock effects
- The Auto-Attempt button is risky—manual picking is more reliable at higher levels
Final Thoughts
Lockpicks are your best friend in Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion if you’re playing a thief, assassin, or treasure hunter. Whether you’re buying them from Shady Sam, looting them in dungeons, or eventually earning the unbreakable Skeleton Key, there are plenty of ways to stay stocked and keep looting.
Need help mastering the lockpicking minigame? Check out our guide on How to Pick Locks in Oblivion to go from beginner to break-in expert.