People do not think of lockpicking as a helpful skill. They think only thieves and burglars know how to pick a lock. In reality, lockpicking is a handy skill and can help you at challenging times. Losing your keys is very common and can happen to anybody. Every house does not have a lockpicking kit, and you may need to use some household items to pick the lock. This article will guide you on how to pick a lock with a hairpin. However, you can contact Key Duplication in Norridge in case you are facing difficulties picking the lock.
How to pick a lock with a hairpin?
To pick a lock, you must first try to understand how that specific lock works. It is recommended to pick doorknob locks and padlocks using a hairpin. These types of locks are easy to pick and are generally considered low-security locks.
Scrape the plastic from the hairpin
Some hairpins have their ends covered in plastic. The hairpin will act as a pick, so it needs to have sharp ends. Scrape the plastic from the ends of the hairpin. You can use a pair of pliers or anything sharp.
Make a Tension Wrench
You can use a hairpin, bobby pin, or a paperclip to use as a tension wrench. Make sure that whatever you decide to use should be well built and L-shaped. You can also use a flat-head screwdriver as long as it can fit in the bottom of the keyhole.
Insert the tension wrench
A tension wrench applies pressure on the lock plug so that the lock pins do not push back to their original lock position. Insert the wrench in the bottom of the keyhole. Now, rotate the tension wrench in the direction that you move the key to unlock the door. Do not apply too much pressure on the lock, as the hairpin can break inside the lock. If the lock gets damaged, you can contact Lock repair and replacement in Norridge for assistance.
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Insert the Pick
While keeping the pressure on the lock using the tension wrench, insert the pick in the top of the lock. The lock will not enter the lock quickly, and you will have to wiggle it slowly. Do not apply too much pressure as it could break and will be stuck in the lock.
Wiggle the pick in the lock
After entering the pick in the lock, slowly wiggle the pick upwards and downwards. You will start to hear clicking sounds as the pins are raised inside the lock. You will have to raise all the pins by hearing the clicking sounds. It will take some time and can be very frustrating. Try to keep a calm head.
There are many different types of locks, and they all can’t be picked using a hairpin. You can pick padlocks, doorknob locks, and some low-security deadbolt locks with a hairpin. A lever handle lock is another common type of lock. However, it can not be picked using household items. You will need a professional lock pick set. You should also have some experience.
How to pick a lever handle lock?
Lever handle locks are considered high-security locks. This is why you will need professional tools for this lock. However, picking a lever handle lock is similar to picking a padlock or doorknob lock. You will need a hook pick instead of a hair pin.
Insert the hook pick
Insert the hook pick in the top of the keyhole. Slowly wiggle the hook pick in the keyhole to know how many levers are inside the lock. Three lever handle locks and five lever handle locks are the most common. Remove the hook pick from the keyhole.
Insert the tension wrench
Insert the wrench in the bottom of the keyhole and try to find the notch. The notch is near the bolt. Place the tension wrench in the bolt and rotate it in the direction you rotate the key to unlock. Hold the tension wrench in this position after the bolt rotates completely. Insert hook pick again.
Raise the levers
Use the hook pick to raise all the levers inside the lock. The last lever will be the most difficult to raise. Slowly raise this lever, and you will see the bolt moving. You should follow this step for every lever.
Turn back the bolt
After raising all the levers to their correct height, Use the tension wrench to turn the bolt back. Now, slide the handle down to open the door.
Conclusion
It is better to call a locksmith if you have no prior experience. However, if you decide to do it yourself, ensure you have the proper tools and follow a good guide. You can also make things worse by damaging the lock. If you can’t do it, remember it is not an easy task, and it is very rare for someone to get success the first time. You can always call a professional locksmith who will be able to solve your problem in a few minutes. They will charge a small fee, but their service is guaranteed and will ultimately save you time.