Vintage Breaking and Entering

The burglars’ tools, in the language of the profession called “kits,” are divided into several classes; they are jimmies, chisels, wedges, hammers, skeleton keys, nippers, drills, punches, jacks, clamps, etc. We present in our engraving some specimens of the modern and most improved kinds.

Let's be honest.  Most RPG player characters are criminals of the worst sort.  Assault, murder, robbery, breaking and entering... just another day of adventuring.  They may be on the side of the angels, but they're still living the life of a ne'er-do-well.

If you're looking for a little verisimilitude, this article on vintage burglar's tools should come in handy.  It comes to us from the May 1874 issue of "Manufacturer and Builder" magazine.  Along with a look at the tools of the trade it has some helpful (!) advice on how to use them.  You can view and download the high resolution scan by opening the image in a new tab.