MIT Guide to Lock Picking – Appendix B  Contrary to widespread
myth, it is not a felony to possess lockpicks. Each state has
its own laws with respect to such burglarious instruments. Here
is the Massacusetts version quoted in entirety from the
massachusetts general code:  Chapter 266 (crimes against
property) Section 49. Burglarious instruments; making;
possession; use.  implement adapted and designed for cutting
through, forcing or same to be used or employed for such
purpose, or whoever knowingly has in his possession a master key
designed to fit more steal a motor vehicle or other property
therefrom, shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison
for not more than  Emphasis added.  In other words, mere
possession means nothing. If they stop you for speeding or
something, and find a pick set, they can’t do much. On the other
hand, if they catch you picking the lock on a Money machine they
get to draw and quarter you.   It may be a good idea to carry
around a xeroxed copy of the appropriate page from