How to Open a Lock Without a Locksmith?

Whether you are locked out of your home, office, or car or just want to learn how to open a lock on your own, locksmiths are there for you when you need them. They can also help you with any other security questions or concerns that you may have. 

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The process of opening a lock without the key is called lock picking, and it can be done in a variety of ways. Typically, this method involves the use of a tool to manipulate the springs in the lock through the keyhole. The tool must be thin enough to fit the lock’s keyhole and durable to prevent it from breaking while you are doing this. 

There are several tools that a locksmith can use to pick locks, including bolt cutters, wheel grinders, shims and more. These tools will break through a lock’s cylinder and remove the pins that prevent it from being turned, allowing you to unlock it. 

Some specialized tools can even cut the key in half to make new keys. These are usually used in cases where the original key has been damaged or has broken in some way. 

If the lock you are trying to open is made of metal, a screwdriver can be a good tool to use. It can be inserted into the keyhole, and then you will turn it and jiggle it until it opens. 

Another simple way to open a lock is to use a wire clothes hanger. This is a great way to open any padlock and works well on any type of chain lock too. This will work if the lock is square or round, but it will require some skill and practice to get it right. 

To do this, you’ll need a wire clothes hanger that has a small wire end that is thin enough to fit the lock. Double check that it’s this thin, then insert it into the keyhole and wiggle it around until it opens. 

For a more precise approach, you can also use a tension wrench that has a thin piece of wire that fits into the square part of the lock. You’ll need to utilize leverage to force the wire into the lock and then lean on it as you twist it. This is a good way to learn how to open a lock, but you should never attempt this technique if the lock is too complicated or has a lot of pins. 

Raking the lock

In this method, you use a tool called a rake to rake against or jiggle the pins inside the lock. The rake needs to be able to move freely and reach all the pins. To do this, you’ll need to apply constant pressure to the tension wrench, but it’s important not to overdo it or the lock will take longer to open. 

Having a rake can be very useful for lock picking, especially for those with curved locks or those that have many pins. Using the rake to jiggle the pins can be a little tricky at first, so you may need to practice a bit before getting it right.