How Does a Locksmith Open a Locked Door? 

There are a number of methods that locksmiths use to open a locked door. Some are non-destructive while others are destructive, and the method used will depend on the lock and type of door it is locked to. 

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Non-destructive entry is the first choice of a locksmith when opening a locked door, and this involves using techniques and tools such as lock picking, mortice decoders, and bypassing the door latch. This is often the quickest and most cost-effective way to unlock a door, although this is not a method that should be employed as a last resort, as it could ruin the locks and doors in question. 

Another method that locksmiths use is called bumping, which utilizes a key to align the pins within a lock. A ‘bump key’ is usually designed for pin tumbler locks, but it may also be useful to unlock any other type of lock, including cylinder locks and roller rim locks. 

A credit card can be used as a shim tool, which is similar to bumping but instead of a key, a card needs to be inserted between the latch and the strike plate (the part that is attached to the frame that has a hole where the latch goes in). Once the card has been inserted the locksmith can then push out the latch from the other side. This is a great alternative to bumping because it does not require any special equipment and can be done in seconds, which is great for when time is of the essence. 

This technique is more difficult than it sounds, but it can be achieved by inserting a tension wrench into the lock and twisting in a particular direction. Once the lock is twisted, it should spring open. The problem with this method is that it requires a lot of practice and experience, so it is better to call a locksmith than to try this yourself. 

Some people also like to’shear’ off the end of a wire coat hanger, which can be helpful for getting into a door that is difficult to get a lock on without the proper tool. However, this should only be considered a last resort and is not recommended for use at home or in public places. 

Breaking and entering a locked door is a serious concern, especially in an emergency situation. If you have children or pets in the house, this can be a very dangerous and potentially fatal situation. 

If you are in this situation, contacting your landlord or partner can be a good idea. They are likely to have a spare key or master key that is easy to get to and can help you get into the house. 

You can also ask a friend or neighbour who has a spare key to let you in, as they will be familiar with the property and may have a copy of the keys. This will be a very convenient solution for you and the person you are talking to, but it can be a bit scary, so it’s best not to attempt this yourself without professional advice.