Oblivion Lockpicks: Your Guide to Finding Them In Cyrodiil

The Basics

Lockpicks in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion are essential tools for any adventurer seeking to uncover hidden treasures and explore every nook and cranny of Cyrodiil. These small but mighty instruments are the key to unlocking doors and chests without the need for a physical key, granting access to valuable loot, secret passages, and even vital quest objectives. However, the path of a skilled locksmith isn’t always smooth. The Security skill, governing your ability to pick locks, can be challenging to master, and breaking lockpicks is a common occurrence, especially for novice adventurers. Running out of these essential tools can quickly halt your progress. So, the question arises: where can you reliably acquire more? This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the places you can buy lockpicks in Oblivion, as well as other methods you can use to keep your pockets overflowing with these vital tools.

Before delving into specific locations, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of lockpicks in Oblivion. A lockpick allows players to attempt to open locked containers or doors without possessing the corresponding key. The success of this endeavor depends on the character’s Security skill level, the quality of the lockpick, and the difficulty of the lock itself. As the Security skill increases, it becomes easier to pick more complex locks, and the chance of breaking a lockpick diminishes. Novice lockpicks break more often than high quality ones. Lockpicks can be acquired from merchants, found as loot, or even rewarded upon completion of certain quests. Having a steady supply of lockpicks is absolutely crucial for exploring every corner of the map.

General Merchants

General merchants are the bread and butter of any adventurer in need of basic supplies. These shopkeepers stock a variety of goods, including weapons, armor, potions, and, most importantly for our purposes, lockpicks. While their selection of lockpicks might not be as extensive as specialized vendors, they provide a convenient and accessible option, especially in the early game when resources are scarce. Some merchants tend to stock lockpicks more often and in greater quantities than others. Therefore, it’s beneficial to know which shops to prioritize when looking to replenish your lockpick supply.

One of the most reliable general merchants for purchasing lockpicks is located in Skingrad. You can find her shop near the center of town where she stocks all the supplies you need, at a reasonable price. The shopkeeper’s name is Glistel, so be sure to remember that if you need supplies in Skingrad.

Another excellent option is found within the Imperial City Market District. Look for the shop of Borba Gra gro-Nargol, located in the center of the city. She is a trustworthy and reliable vendor and one of the best in the city. While her demeanor might seem gruff, she consistently stocks lockpicks and other essential adventuring supplies.

Beyond these two, many other general merchants throughout Cyrodiil offer lockpicks. These shops vary in their frequency of stocking lockpicks, and their locations are widespread across the map. Shops located in larger cities such as Chorrol and Bruma are more likely to sell lockpicks. Smaller villages may not stock lockpicks as frequently, if at all. So it’s always a good idea to stock up when you find them. Regularly visiting these merchants and checking their inventory is a good habit to develop. You will find it useful in the long run.

Thieves Guild and Fences

For those inclined towards a more illicit path, the Thieves Guild offers an alternative route to acquiring lockpicks. Joining the Thieves Guild grants access to fences, specialized merchants who deal in stolen goods and other less-than-reputable items, including our beloved lockpicks. These fences provide a more reliable and often more affordable source of lockpicks than general merchants, but they come with the obvious price of joining the guild.

To join the Thieves Guild, you’ll need to seek out a member of the guild and get yourself involved in a less than lawful endeavor. By completing quests for the Thieves Guild, you’ll improve your standing and gain access to additional resources and benefits, including better prices and a wider selection of lockpicks from fences.

One of the first fences you’ll encounter upon joining the Thieves Guild is located in Bravil. This individual can usually be found wandering the streets after dark. If you are looking to offload some goods and purchase a few lockpicks on the side, this individual is a good person to seek out. Keep in mind that dealing with fences carries an element of risk. Guards may become suspicious if they see you associating with known criminals.

Another useful fence within the Thieves Guild is also located in Bravil. This shopkeeper provides a much needed service to members of the thieves guild at a reasonable price. By continuing to complete Thieves Guild quests, you will gain access to additional fences throughout Cyrodiil, further expanding your access to lockpicks and other essential supplies.

The Thieves Guild offers several advantages beyond access to fences. Members often receive discounts on goods, and they gain access to specialized merchants who stock unique items and services. Furthermore, the Thieves Guild provides a steady stream of quests and opportunities for acquiring valuable loot, including lockpicks.

Other Methods of Obtaining Lockpicks

While purchasing lockpicks from merchants and fences is the most reliable method, there are several alternative ways to acquire them in Oblivion. Exploring dungeons, raiding bandit camps, and completing quests can all lead to the discovery of lockpicks.

Looting chests and containers is a common way to find lockpicks, especially in dungeons and other areas with a high concentration of enemies. Be sure to thoroughly search every container you come across, as even seemingly innocuous chests and barrels can contain a hidden stash of lockpicks.

Some enemies may drop lockpicks upon defeat. Bandits, Marauders, and other criminal types are more likely to carry lockpicks than other enemies. Targeting these enemies can provide a steady source of lockpicks.

Lockpicks can also be purchased at various Mages Guild chapters. A simple trip to the city Mages Guild is a good way to stock up on some essential supplies. Potions, scrolls, soul gems, and other such items are common at the Mages Guild, so it is always a good place to stop by.

Most chapters will stock some lockpicks, although the amount will vary. Visiting the guild often will increase your chances of finding a lockpick or two for sale. These lockpicks can be a great help in a pinch if you run out.

Several quests in Oblivion reward the player with lockpicks upon completion. These quests are often related to the Thieves Guild or involve infiltrating a locked location. Completing these quests not only provides a source of lockpicks but also offers valuable experience and rewards. Some classes may start with lockpicks, but this will vary from one class to the next.

Tips for Efficient Lockpick Use

Acquiring lockpicks is only half the battle. To make the most of your lockpick supply, you need to use them efficiently. The first step is to increase your Security skill. As your Security skill increases, it becomes easier to pick locks, and the chance of breaking a lockpick diminishes. You can increase your Security skill by successfully picking locks, reading Security skill books, or training with a Security skill trainer.

Alchemy is your friend. Creating potions to boost your Security skill can significantly improve your chances of successfully picking a lock, especially when facing a difficult challenge. Look for ingredients with Fortify Security effects, such as Stinkhorn and Elf Cup.

Another essential tip is to save your game before attempting a difficult lock. If you fail and break all your lockpicks, you can simply reload your save and try again. This will save you time and resources in the long run.

Finally, there’s the Skeleton Key. This Daedric artifact is a lockpick that never breaks. It is obtained during the Thieves Guild questline. However, acquiring and keeping the Skeleton Key comes with a tradeoff. It’s a powerful tool, but keeping it means you cannot complete a certain Thieves Guild quest, and you miss out on other potential benefits. The decision of whether to keep or return the Skeleton Key is a strategic one that depends on your playstyle and priorities.

Conclusion

Finding where to buy lockpicks in Oblivion doesn’t have to be a daunting task. From general merchants and Thieves Guild fences to looting containers and completing quests, there are many ways to keep your pockets full of these essential tools. Remember to utilize these efficient lockpick tips, boost your Security skill, and take advantage of any opportunity to acquire more lockpicks. With a steady supply of lockpicks and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to unlock any door and uncover every secret Cyrodiil has to offer. Now, go forth and explore, and may your lockpicks never break at the most inconvenient moment. Consider joining the Thieves Guild as a way to make sure you always have access to a reliable source for acquiring the tools you need. Your lockpicking adventure awaits.