Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 6: Using a bump wrench
• Tips
• Warnings

Locks on doors provide security and peace of mind, but they can also cause considerable irritation if they don't work properly, or if you accidentally leave your keys on the wrong side of the lock. Remember, before you start fiddling with opening your lock without a key or even breaking the door open, you really need to be sure that there are no other options. Many of these methods take time to learn, keep that in mind.

To step

Method 1 of 6: Using a bump wrench

1. Ram open unruly doors with a battering ram. If, for whatever reason, you prefer a battering ram to calling a locksmith, you can make a fairly effective post-driver of the type used to drive posts into the ground.
   • Purchase a post driver. Choose one that's about three feet long, with slightly longer handles on both sides.
   • Fill the cylinder completely or partially with cement. Make sure the cement is completely dry before using it.
   • Throw the batter sideways to push the battering ram into the door at the level of the lock mechanism. Swing the ram back along the front of your body while standing perpendicular to the door. Then lean and thrust towards the door with the battering ram. Most doors will break with a few knocks.
   • Keep in mind that the door is most likely completely ruined and will need to be replaced.

Tips

• Call a professional locksmith if possible. There is no real substitute for a locksmith (or the owner with a master key) if you have locked yourself out. The best and safest way to open a closed door is always to find a phone and call someone specially trained for this.
• Whenever possible, always start with the least invasive method. If you can open a door with a credit card, there is no need to open the lock with a knock wrench or grab your homemade battering ram.
• Practice. If you plan to open locks with bump keys, or with a lock pick set, you will need a lot of practice to develop the skills. There is no better teacher than experience.

Warnings

• Never try to break open a door with your shoulder. That only works in movies.
• To intrude into something that is not yours is to break in and it is prohibited. Do not do it.
• Do not try to open a lock or the like. There is a good chance that the bullet will ricochet with potentially fatal consequences. It is also possible that this will irretrievably block the lock in a fixed position, thanks to the dent you probably created.
• In some places, having lock picking tools without proof of being a locksmith is illegal. Depending on the state of mind of the arresting officer, this may include homemade tools. Only use such items when absolutely necessary.
• If you've locked yourself out of a rented property, call the concierge, manager, or owner before attempting to break in. There is a chance that one of them has a key that they can use to open your home for you. Breaking into a rented property can be legally unclear, especially if you cause damage to the property.