Where Can I Buy Lockpicks In Oblivion? Your Guide to Becoming a Master Thief

Introduction

The world of *Oblivion* is vast and filled with secrets, hidden treasures, and forbidden pathways. Gaining access to these hidden realms often requires a skill, a certain… knack for opening things that are meant to stay closed. Enter the lockpick, the humble tool that separates the casual adventurer from the true master thief. Whether you’re aiming to loot every chest in a bandit cave, sneak into the Imperial Palace’s secret passages, or simply open that stubbornly locked cupboard in your newly purchased house, lockpicks are indispensable.

Lockpicking in *Oblivion* is, of course, against the law. Attempting to pick a lock in front of a guard is a quick way to find yourself behind bars (or worse). But for those willing to risk the consequences, the rewards are often well worth it. This article will be your comprehensive guide to finding lockpicks in Cyrodiil. We’ll delve into the various locations and merchants where you can acquire these essential tools, empowering you to unlock the full potential of your thieving ambitions.

General Merchants and Vendors: Your Everyday Source

When you first step into the sun-drenched world of *Oblivion*, you might not have the reputation (or the stomach) to join the darker factions. Fortunately, lockpicks are readily available from several general merchants scattered across Cyrodiil’s bustling cities and quaint villages. These vendors are your first port of call, especially in the early stages of your adventure. They offer a reliable, albeit limited, supply of lockpicks, allowing you to get your lockpicking career off to a smooth start.

The most common source of lockpicks is, unsurprisingly, general goods stores. Places like Edgar’s Discount Goods in the Imperial City Market District are a great place to start. This shop, along with similar establishments in other cities such as Chorrol (Palonirya), Bruma, and Skingrad, often stock a small number of lockpicks alongside their other wares. These vendors are generally reliable, but their stock can be unpredictable, especially if other adventurers have been raiding their shelves. Be sure to check back regularly to see if they’ve restocked.

While general goods stores are the most obvious choice, keep an eye out for less conventional sources. Surprisingly, some members of the Mages Guild also dabble in the lockpick trade. Their selection tends to be smaller and prices might be a little higher, but they can be a useful alternative when other vendors are running dry. Check the Mages Guild halls in various cities – you never know who might have a few lockpicks stashed away for a rainy day (or a particularly lucrative heist).

Finally, a somewhat obscure but consistently reliable location is the Drunken Dragon Inn in Skingrad. The proprietor discreetly sells lockpicks, making it a convenient stop for aspiring thieves operating in the area. This makes the Drunken Dragon Inn a must-visit location for any serious lockpick aficionado, and a worthwhile visit for a low level player.

Remember, the availability of lockpicks at these general merchants fluctuates. Some may restock their inventory every few days, while others might take longer. It’s always a good idea to visit several vendors in different cities to maximize your chances of finding a steady supply.

Thieves Guild Connections: A Thief’s Best Friend

While general merchants offer a convenient starting point, true mastery of lockpicking requires a deeper connection. Joining the Thieves Guild opens doors (literally!) to a more consistent and reliable supply of lockpicks.

Becoming a member of the Thieves Guild isn’t a straightforward transaction. You must prove your worth and demonstrate your… aptitude for acquiring goods. The initial quest, often referred to as “May the Best Thief Win,” involves a friendly (but cutthroat) competition among aspiring thieves to steal a valuable item. Completing this quest not only grants you membership in the guild but also introduces you to a network of contacts and resources that are invaluable for any serious lockpicker.

The most significant benefit of Thieves Guild membership is access to the Thieves Guild fence. This shadowy figure serves as a buyer for stolen goods and, more importantly, a supplier of lockpicks. The fence’s location depends on your progress within the guild. Initially, you might find Ongar the World-Weary in Bruma acting as the fence. Later, you’ll gain access to S’krivva in Bravil, a more established and reliable fence. The fence offers a consistent source of lockpicks, often at competitive prices, making them an essential resource for any member of the guild.

Beyond the immediate benefits of a steady lockpick supply, the Thieves Guild offers numerous quests and opportunities to hone your skills, earn rewards, and rise through the ranks. As you gain notoriety and prestige within the guild, you’ll unlock access to even more resources and opportunities, solidifying your position as a master thief.

Quest Rewards and Hidden Stashes: Leave No Stone Unturned

Beyond merchants and the Thieves Guild, lockpicks can also be obtained as rewards for completing specific quests or discovered in hidden stashes scattered throughout Cyrodiil. These methods offer a more unpredictable but potentially rewarding way to bolster your lockpick inventory.

Several quests, particularly those associated with the Thieves Guild, offer lockpicks as a reward for successful completion. These rewards can range from a handful of lockpicks to a substantial stash, depending on the difficulty and complexity of the quest. Keep an eye out for any quests that involve theft, infiltration, or treasure hunting, as these are often the most likely to yield lockpicks as a reward.

In addition to quest rewards, lockpicks can be found in various hidden locations throughout the game world. Dungeons, ruins, forts, and even abandoned buildings often contain chests, containers, and corpses that may hold a few precious lockpicks. Exploring thoroughly and leaving no stone unturned is crucial for maximizing your chances of finding these hidden treasures. Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks out of place or tucked away in a corner, as these are often the hiding places for valuable items, including lockpicks.

When venturing into dungeons, remember the age-old adventurer’s mantra: loot everything! Check every chest, sack, barrel, and fallen enemy for potential lockpicks. A thorough search can often yield a surprising number of these useful tools, saving you precious gold and ensuring you’re always prepared for the next locked door.

Tips for Conserving Lockpicks: Locksmithing on a Budget

Acquiring lockpicks is only half the battle. To truly master the art of thievery, you must also learn to use them efficiently and avoid unnecessary breakage. By honing your skills and employing a few clever techniques, you can significantly reduce your lockpick consumption and maximize your thieving potential.

The most effective way to conserve lockpicks is to improve your Security skill. As your Security skill increases, you’ll find it easier to pick locks, reducing the chances of breaking your precious lockpicks. Invest in training with skilled Security trainers, or practice on easier locks to gradually improve your skill. The higher your Security skill, the fewer lockpicks you’ll break, and the more lucrative your thieving career will become.

In addition to permanent skill improvements, you can also use spells or enchantments to temporarily boost your Security skill. Spells like “Open” or items with Security enchantments can make even the most challenging locks seem manageable. Use these magical aids strategically to tackle difficult locks without risking your valuable lockpicks.

Finally, remember the golden rule of lockpicking: save before you try! Before attempting to pick a particularly difficult lock, quicksave your game. That way, if you break all your lockpicks in the process, you can simply reload and try again, saving you the cost and frustration of replacing them. Practicing on easier locks first, and using a light touch when feeling out the tumbler positions are also important. Knowing when a lockpick is about to break, and letting off the tumbler before it does, is a great skill to learn.

Conclusion: Unlock Your Potential

Lockpicks are an essential tool for any adventurer seeking to explore the hidden depths of *Oblivion*. Whether you’re buying them from general merchants, earning them through Thieves Guild quests, or discovering them in hidden stashes, acquiring a steady supply of lockpicks is crucial for unlocking the game’s full potential.

Remember, lockpicking in *Oblivion* is a risk-reward endeavor. The rewards for successfully picking a lock can be substantial, but the consequences of getting caught can be severe. Approach each locked door with caution, carefully assess the risks, and always be prepared to face the consequences of your actions. By mastering the art of lockpicking and managing your lockpick supply effectively, you can unlock a world of opportunities and become a true master thief in the world of *Oblivion*. So, go forth, explore, and unlock the secrets that await!