Arcane lockpick - An unlock spell with staff and scroll
⚪ Last updated 2024⚠️ Install Order · 5 steps
Install in this order, then this mod last — most mods fail to load without their framework and dependencies in place.
Preview

🔍 Analysis
- 👍 4.0% endorsement rate — high engagement, a strong quality signal
- 🏆 #45 of 92 Magic - Spells & Enchantments mods in this game by downloads
📋 About This Mod
What this mod does?
Add to the leveled list (to all merchant and loots) the spell tome (is an NOVICE SPELL), staff and scroll "Arcane Lock pick" opens locks based on your alteration skills.
I know and i don't care that there are other open locks spells on nexus, this one takes another approach script wise, and is in my opinion better, less intrusive. But most of all, my spell works perfectly with all kind of references. Also, i added the staff variant and scroll variant.
ADDED CRIME SYSTEM: Casting a spell that open locks is not something that anyone should be able to do to other's people property. Now if you get caught casting a bounty will be added, and guards will alert. A global variable has been added to handle as on/off switch to this system.
At the start of the game a note will be added to you, a message menu will make you turn on and off the Crime System.
HOW IT WORKS THE SPELL: WHEN YOU CAST IT LOCATES THE CLOSEST LOCK, IF THE OWNER OR A GUARD IS DETECTING YOU (USE EYE-LIKE SNEAKING DETECTION), IF YOU GET DETECTED BY THE OWNER WILL ALERT THE GUARDS.
IF FOR ANY REASON THE LOCK HAS NOT BEEN TARGETED, JUST UNEQUIP THE SPELL AND RECAST.
SKSE FREE
THE SPELL WORKS ON ANY KIND OF REFERENCE.
I MADE THIS MOD TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH LOCKPICKING IS ESSENTIAL
All credits go to Bethesda for the creation kit.
A lightweight Skyrim mod that adds an unlock spell with staff and scroll variants, using minimal scripting and no SKSE requirement. It works on all references, offering a simple magical alternative to lockpicking for players who prefer spell-based solutions.
✨ Key Features
📊 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Solid community trust (290 endorsements)
- SKSE-free means it's compatible with most setups
- Minimal scripting keeps things light
⚠️ Cons
- Not updated since January 2024, so might be behind on latest game patches
- Could conflict with other magic overhauls that alter spell lists
- Limited to unlock functionality, so if you want more spell variety, look elsewhere
For Skyrim players who hate lockpicking and want a magical bypass without heavy mods. Also great for mage characters who want to stay in character. Skip if you're looking for a full magic overhaul or need SKSE-dependent features.
💡 Beginner Tips
- Since it's SKSE-free, you can install it manually or with your mod manager—no extra setup needed.
- If you use a mod that changes lockpicking mechanics, test this spell early to ensure no conflicts.
- Remember to check your load order if you have other magic mods, but this one is lightweight so it should be fine.
📊 Mod Details
- Game
- Skyrim Mods
- Author
- Alaebasta
- Version
- 1.9
- Downloads
- 7,164
- Endorsements
- 290
- Category
- Magic - Spells & Enchantments
- Created
- 11/6/2017
- Updated
- 1/23/2024
🔧 How to Install Skyrim Mods
Download from Nexus.
📖 Full step-by-step install guide for Skyrim →
Visit the official mod page for specific installation instructions for this mod.
🎮 Need cheat codes or console commands? Check ur gaming wiki for Skyrim commands, item IDs, and more.
Keep browsing — more Skyrim mods await