Question : Would it be illegal to have lock picks shipped to New York?
The law in New York regarding lock picks for non-licensed persons is vague: “possessing burglar’s tools” is a crime if intent to use an item (any item) for felonious purposes is clear. I have no intention of breaking into any body’s home, etc. It would only be a hobby.

Could I order lock picks off the internet, into NY? Or would postal inspectors have me arrested?
ny home inspector

Best answer:

Answer by Logic316
This is what I found on the legality of mailing lockpicks. However, these restrictions only refer to the U.S. Postal Service, not to private carriers like Federal Express or UPS. You may also want to keep in mind that while the mere possession of lockpicks by somebody who isn’t a licensed locksmith isn’t a crime (except in Washington DC), some cops may not recognize “I’m just a hobbyist” as being a valid reason and could mistake them for burglar’s tools if they see you carrying them around.

§ 3002a. Nonmailability of locksmithing devices

(a) Any locksmithing device is nonmailable mail, shall not be carried or delivered by mail, and shall be disposed of as the Postal Service directs, unless such device is mailed to—
(1) a lock manufacturer or distributor;
(2) a bona fide locksmith;
(3) a bona fide repossessor; or
(4) a motor vehicle manufacturer or dealer.
(b) For the purpose of this section, “locksmithing device” means—
(1) a device or tool (other than a key) designed to manipulate the tumblers in a lock into the unlocked position through the keyway of such lock;
(2) a device or tool (other than a key or a device or tool under paragraph (1)) designed for the unauthorized opening or bypassing of a lock or similar security device; and
(3) a device or tool designed for making an impression of a key or similar security device to duplicate such key or device.