Lishi 2-in-1 Tool Maintenance: Cleaning, Storage and When to Replace
Short version: a Lishi tool lasts for years if you keep it clean, dry and unstressed. The two things that kill tools are grit in the decoder and bending the pick tip while removing it under tension.
1. Maintenance schedule
| Task | When | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wipe the pick and decoder | After every job | Removes metal dust and old lubricant |
| Brush the decoder slots | Weekly, or after dirty locks | Grit changes depth readings |
| Check the tip for wear | Weekly | A worn tip reads shallow |
| Oil the pivot (one drop) | Monthly | Keeps the arm free without attracting grit |
| Full inspection | Quarterly | Catches bent arms before they damage a lock |
2. Cleaning
Use a dry brush and a lint-free cloth. Avoid solvent baths: they strip the lubrication from the pivot and leave the tool dry.
If a lock was full of graphite or grease, clean the tool before the next job — contamination transfers.
3. Storage
Store tools in a case with individual slots. Loose in a bag, the pick tips knock against each other and the decoder marks wear.
Keep them dry. A tool that lives in a damp van will corrode at the tip first.
4. When to stop using a tool
If the tip is bent, the arm does not return freely, or the decoder no longer lines up, retire it. A damaged tool will damage the next lock.
5. FAQ
Can I use WD-40 on a Lishi tool?
No. It attracts grit and leaves a film that changes the feel of the pins.
How long does a tool last?
Years with daily use if cleaned and stored properly. The tip, not the body, is the wear item.
Should I lubricate the lock?
Only with a locksmith-grade lubricant, and sparingly. Excess lubricant traps dirt.
Related reading
6. Where to start
Replacement tips and accessories are in the Accessories & Sets collection.
Reviewed against current product data on 2 November 2026.
