Where To Buy Lockpicks Oblivion Shops Locations And Buying Guide
Lockpicks are essential tools in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, allowing adventurers to access locked chests, doors, and hidden rooms throughout Cyrodiil. Because lockpicks frequently break during minigames, players often find themselves in desperate need of a reliable supply. Knowing exactly where to purchase these items can save you significant time and frustration during your playthrough.
Finding Shady Sam Outside the Imperial City
For early-game players who have not joined any specialized factions, Shady Sam is the most reliable vendor. He is located outside the Imperial City walls, tucked near the northeast exterior section close to the Chestnut Handy Stables. Shady Sam carries 30 lockpicks in his stock, and his inventory completely refreshes after waiting 48 hours.
Purchasing Lockpicks from the Thieves Guild
Joining the Thieves Guild provides access to the best long-term lockpick suppliers in the entire game. Once admitted, players can buy lockpicks from guild doyens like Armand Christophe or various fences across major cities. Fences maintain massive inventories, making it easy to stockpile hundreds of tools for future dungeon crawls.
Alternative Merchants and Dark Brotherhood Options
If you prefer a darker path, members of the Dark Brotherhood can purchase lockpicks inside the Cheydinhal Sanctuary. Vendors within secret organizations offer fair prices and regular inventory updates. Additionally, general store merchants occasionally sell a small handful of picks, though their supplies are limited compared to specialized vendors.
Alternative Methods and Long-Term Strategies
Beyond buying lockpicks directly, players can farm them by looting defeated bandits, marauders, and goblins. Dungeon exploration frequently yields picks inside chest containers and barrels throughout the countryside. Players reaching level 10 can also complete the Nocturnal Daedric quest to earn the unbreakable Skeleton Key, eliminating the need to purchase picks ever again.