One of the most common security measures for any lock is an additional key that you can use to unlock the lock without having to pick it. In some cases, you might even need a master key. This method is ideal, but there are a few ways you can break into this lock without picking it. Learn how here!
What is a lock?
Locks are pieces of hardware that protect things like doors, windows, and cabinets from being opened without the correct key. There are many different types of locks, but all of them use the same basic principle. You put your key in the lock, turn it until it clicks into position, then twist it to open the door.
Steps to Open a Lock Without Breaking It
If you’re trying to open a lock without breaking it, there are a few different techniques you can use. Here are three of the most popular methods:
1. The Hairpin Method: This is by far the easiest way to open a lock without breaking it. All you need is a hairpin and some energy. Insert the hairpin into the lock’s keyway and turn it clockwise until the lock pops open.
2. The Pinch Method: This method is similar to the hairpin method, but instead of using a hairpin, you’ll use your fingers. Put your fingers around the center of the door knob and apply pressure evenly all around it. This will force the door knob out of its hole, so you can open it from the inside.
3. The Jiggler Method: This is a more advanced technique that’s used when a standard lock won’t budge. Basically, you’ll use an object with a weight attached to it to jiggle the door knob loose. You can try using a heavy book or something similar.
Types of locking mechanisms
There are many different types of locking mechanisms, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. This article will discuss the three most common types of locking mechanisms: pin tumbler locks, warded locks, and keyed locks.
Pin Tumbler Locks: Pin tumbler locks are the most common type of locking mechanism, and they are used in both residential and commercial settings. Pin tumbler locks consist of a series of small pins that are pushed into slots on the lock’s cylinder. To open the lock, you need to rotate the pins in the correct order (from top to bottom) so that the pins fall out of the slot.
One downside to pin tumbler locks is that they can be easily broken if attacked with a sharp object. Another downside is that pin tumbler locks are less secure than other types of locking mechanisms. If someone knows the correct sequence for opening a pin tumbler lock, they can bypass it easily.
Warded Locks: Warded locks are used in high-security settings such as banks and prisons. Warded locks consist of a series of metal bars that are spaced evenly around the door or window. The keys are inserted into the lock and turned in a specific direction, causing the bars to move over one another. The key then turns in the opposite direction, causing the bars to reverse their movement. This entire process takes place under a metal cover that acts as a seal between the lock and door.
Warded locks have three different levels of security: 1) short strikes will not completely open any of the wards; 2) long strikes will only partially open some of the wards; 3) full-length strikes will open all of the wards. It is important these locks be used properly to prevent unwanted entry or bypassing them.
Lever Locks: Lever locks use a tight internal spring that causes a lever to turn inside the lock cylinder to manipulate the tumblers. This action releases the tumbler pin and allows the lock to open. Lever locks have a very strong seal and are usually safe from being opened by hand tools for a short period of time. This is due to the spring power that acts against any attempt to remove or break off the lever mechanism inside the lock. In order for a lever cylinder to be picked, it must be spiked or drilled, allowing entry into the cylinder.
Point Locks: Point locks use levers, pins and screws in their construction. A common point lock consists of an outer shell, called an “outer case” or “case” (sometimes called a “casing”), which surrounds all components except for the inner workings of the lock. The inner workings of a point lock are the cylinder and the bolt, which is attached to the inner workings of the lock. A typical point lock consists of two parts: outer case and inner workings. The outer case holds all components except for the slightly smaller inner workings, which hold the cylinder. Sometimes a third part called a “shelf” is present in between both parts as well. This shelf helps to support tension in the bolt when locked, allowing it to move freely. When looking at a point lock through its casing, we notice that there are different shapes depending on what type of point lock it is (see illustration).
Obtaining the information you need to open the lock
If you find yourself locked out of your car, home, or office, one option may be to try and open the lock without breaking it. While there are a few ways to do this, the simplest way is often to use a key from a similar lock. If you don’t have this key, you can often buy one at a hardware store or online.
Once you have the key, follow these steps:
1. Locate the lock’s pins. The majority of locks will have either six or eight pins. Figure out which pin corresponds to the turning wheel on your door (usually the top one).
2. Find the tumbler that opens the lock. This is usually located in the middle of the lock and has several notches on it. Use your key to fit into one of these notches and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place (or vice versa if it’s a reverse lock). Make sure you are turning the correct pin!
3. Hold onto this tumbler while you remove the other pins with your key. Be careful not to let go of the tumbler, as it could fall out and prevent your key from turning the next tumbler back into place.
4. Continue removing all of the pins with your key, one by one.
5. Remove the last pin and insert your key into the hole in the lock to turn the cylinder inside and let it go through all of its motions. (You may have to use your screwdriver to force this.)
6. After a few moments, pull out your key and open your door! Note: If you’re trying to open a mortise lock, instead of a deadbolt, simply hold onto the tumbler while you turn your key once again (clockwise or anti-clockwise).
Conclusion
Locks can be a frustrating thing to deal with when you don’t know how to open them. Luckily, this guide will teach you how to open any lock without it ever coming loose or getting damaged in the process. If you have ever had trouble opening a lock before, this is the guide for you!