So you’ve found yourself locked out? You’ve wondered, what do locksmiths use to open doors? Professional locksmiths have a variety of tools and techniques to get in when you’ve lost your keys, broken a lock, or locking mechanism is malfunctioning. From traditional lock-picking to advanced tools for electronic door locks and smart locks, an experienced locksmith can open doors quickly and with minimal damage.
In this guide, we’ll cover the different entry methods locksmiths use, the tools required, and how they handle different types of door locks.
Non-Destructive Entry Methods
A good locksmith always tries to use non-destructive entry methods before resorting to a destructive method. These techniques allow them to open locks without damaging the door frame or needing new locks.
1. Lock Picking
Lock picking is one of the most common methods a professional locksmith uses to open a door without a key. With a lock picking kit, they can manipulate the pins inside a pin tumbler lock to unlock it. This works on mortice locks, euro cylinder locks, and standard door locks.
2. Bump Keys
A bump key is a special key used to quickly align the pins in a lock cylinder, so the locksmith can open doors with ease. This is good for house doors, aluminium doors, and UPVC doors.
3. Bypass Tools
Bypass tools work by manipulating the internal locking mechanism without touching the pins. These are used on keyless entry systems and modern locking mechanisms, for quick and minimal damage entry.
4. Mechanical Key Cutters and Spare Keys
If you’ve lost your key but have a spare key available, a mechanical key cutter can cut a duplicate to help get in without damaging the lock.
Destructive Entry Methods
When non-destructive methods fail, locksmiths may need to use a destructive method to get in. These are usually a last resort, used when the lock is too damaged to pick or high-security locks are installed.
5. Drilling the Lock Cylinder
If the lock can’t be picked, a locksmith may need to drill through the lock cylinder. This will destroy the existing lock but allows for easy replacement with new locks.
6. Brute Force
Sometimes, especially with older or damaged locks, brute force is necessary. This could be using a specialised tool to break the door handle, force the lock open, or even remove parts of the door lock.
7. Door Frame Spreading
For some composite doors and UPVC doors, locksmiths can use door spreaders to create a small gap in the door frame to manipulate the locking mechanism.
Locksmithing for Smart Locks and Security Systems
Modern digital and smart locks require different techniques for door opening. A locksmith trained in electronic security can work with electronic door locks, keyless entry systems, and high-security locks to reset or bypass security measures.
If you have security systems in place, a locksmith’s services may be to reset the lock, reprogram access codes or replace the locking mechanism entirely.
When to Call a Locksmith
If you’re locked out due to lost keys, broken lock or malfunctioning keyless entry system, call an experienced locksmith. A locksmith open for emergencies can respond quickly with minimal damage to your existing locks. But some locksmiths charge a call out fee so always check first.
Need a Professional Locksmith?
If you need help with lock repairs, non-destructive entry, key cutting, or upgrading to high-security locks, get in touch with a professional. Tony’s Locksmith provides reliable services to help you gain access quickly and securely.
