Tips & Trick on How to open an Old Safe

Old Safes were primarily used in offices and banks in the 1800s. These safes were mainly made of steel and concrete. These safes are not opened easily. Over the years, the safes were upgraded like the installation of combination locks. However, if you lose the combination, it could become challenging. Safecracking is complex and requires a lot of practice. You can contact Rekey lock in Forest Park to help you out. On the other hand, this article will also guide you on how to open an old safe?

Find out the Type of the Safe

Before you try to open the safe, you must determine its type. The brand name or company logo won’t be hard to find. Most people often confuse a safe with a lockbox. These two have different functionalities and thus work differently. If you cannot find out the type of lock, it is better to call the Residential locksmith in Forest Park. Most old safes used a key lock or a combination lock.

How to open an old safe?

Use a flat-head Screwdriver.

This process only works for safes with key locks. Enter a small flat-head screwdriver in the keyhole. Rotate it in a counter-clockwise direction. It may take some time, but most people fail in this the first time. You get a better idea of the lock every time you try. Do not apply too much force as it can damage the lock, which will make it even more challenging to access.

Key Override

Some safes have a key override to open the safe by using a substitute method. You will have to read the safe manual for that. Every lock has a different method to override the key. Most people don’t even know their safe has a key override.

Safe Manipulation

Safe manipulation is a very complex process. It can only be done by locksmiths who have a lot of knowledge and experience about it. Safe manipulation involves trying to open the safe by listening to the sound of the safe. It also involves touching the safe to understand the movement of the safe’s components. This method requires patience and, most of all, complete silence. Some people also use a stethoscope to enhance the sounds of the safe to understand it better. It takes a lot of time and is the best method to open an old safe as it does not damage the safe. However, there are manipulation-resistant locks that can not be open through this process.

Drilling a Hole

This method is widespread among professional locksmiths. If you are unable to manipulate the safe, you can use a drill machine. There are two types of methods that can be used by drilling a hole.

Scoping the Safe

The process involves drilling a small hole in the safe and passing a tiny fiber-optic viewer called a borescope. The locksmith watches the wheels move as he rotates the handle or a dial. When the locksmith is successful in lining up the pins and the notches, the safe will open. Drilling a hole is the most practical method to open a safe.

Side Drilling

Another method involving drilling is side drilling. It is also used to open a safe. It involves drilling a hole and passing the borescope to locate the position of the bolt. Once he locates the bolt, he uses a long punch rod to move the bolt and open the safe. However, it is a highly complex process. Some safes have their defense mechanisms, making it harder to open the safe if you make a small mistake.

Cutting the Safe

This method should be your last resort as it will destroy the safe. You can use a saw or a torch. Sometimes, even professionals have to use this method. It guarantees that you will get access to the safe. However, the whole process is very loud and takes a lot of time. Some safes are even resistant to cutting. You will have to use stronger tools.

Prying the Door Open

It is the simplest and least successful method to open an old safe. It involves opening the safe by trying to pull its door to separate it. You have to pry off the bolt from the door frame. Some bolts are not that easily moved. However, it is effective in opening old safes. The components of the old safe are outdated and, because they have not been adequately maintained, cannot withstand too much force.

Using a magnet

Opening a safe using a magnet may sound ineffective, but it can work. It involves placing the magnet on the bolt. The bolt is present in the solenoid of the safe. The solenoid’s function is to control the bolt. The main idea is to pull back the bolt by moving the magnet with it.

OPEN AN OLD SAFE

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Call a Locksmith

Calling a locksmith will save you a lot of time and frustration. Safecracking is a very difficult process, and without prior knowledge and experience, it is implausible that you will open the safe. Most effective methods require knowledge and experience. It is why contacting a locksmith is the best option.

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