Have you ever found yourself locked out of your home, car or office, and unable to locate your keys? It’s a frustrating experience, and it can happen to anyone at any time. Fortunately, there are several creative ways to unlock a door without a key. In this article, we will explore eight of these methods and explain when it’s time to call a qualified locksmith, such as Locksmith Plus Inc.
1. Pick the Door with a Lock Picking Set
One of the most popular methods of unlocking a door without a key is to pick the lock with a lock picking set. This method requires some skill and knowledge of how locks work. It involves using a tension wrench and a pick to manipulate the pins inside the lock to open it. However, it’s essential to note that lock picking can be illegal in some jurisdictions, so it’s crucial to check local laws before attempting this method. In most cases, if you are lock picking your own property you should be fine, but laws very state by state on the ownership and transportation of lock picking equipment.
2. Use a Credit Card
Using a credit card to unlock a door without a key is another popular method. This technique involves sliding a credit card between the door and the frame to push the latch back and open the door. However, it’s essential to note that this method only works on certain types of locks. This method won’t work on most exterior doors because there will be no gap in the door frame. This method will work primarily on interior doors where waterproofing and air tight frames are not as important. It’s also important to know that this method can damage the credit card you are using.
3. Use a Bump Key
A bump key is a specially cut key that can unlock a door without the original key. It works by exploiting the mechanical design of the lock. This method involves inserting the bump key into the lock and striking it with a blunt object to cause the pins inside the lock to jump, opening the door. The act of doing this is sometimes referred to as “bumping the lock” in the locksmith community. It’s important to research your local laws and regulations because owning bump keys is illegal in some jurisdictions.
4. Remove the Door Hinges
Removing the door hinges is a relatively simple method of unlocking a door without a key. It involves removing the screws that hold the door hinges in place and removing the door from the frame. This method does not always work because it requires access to the inside of the door to where the hinges are mounted. This method can also cause damage to the door or the hinges so use at your own risk.
5. Use a Paperclip
Using a paperclip to unlock a door without a key is a simple and effective method. It involves straightening out a paperclip. Some techniques hammer the end of the paper click flat. Once the makeshift lock pick is ready, you can insert it into the lock to manipulate the pins and open the door. However, it’s essential to note that this method only works on certain types of locks, and it can be challenging to master.
6. Use a Bobby Pin
A bobby pin can also be used to unlock a door without a key. This method involves bending the bobby pin to create a pick and inserting it into the lock to manipulate the pins and open the door. The bobby pin method works better in the movies than in real life. In the real world a bobby pin is a poor substitute for a lock picking set and will only work on certain locks.
7. Use a Screwdriver
Using a screwdriver to unlock a door without a key is another popular method. It involves inserting a screwdriver into the lock and manipulating the pins to open the door. However, the screw driver has to be the perfect size in order to fit and get the job done. This method will not work on most doors and can cause damage to the lock.
8. Remove the Door Handle
Removing the door handle is another simple method of unlocking a door without a key. It involves removing the screws that hold the door handle in place and removing the handle to access the locking mechanism. This method requires access to the inside of the door because most door handles only have screws on one side.
When to Call a Qualified Portland Locksmith
If you’ve tried all the methods above and are still unable to unlock your door, it’s time to call a qualified locksmith to help. Locksmith Plus Inc. provides professional locksmith services to the Portland Metro and beyond. We have 24 hour emergency services as well as commercial and high-security upgrades.
