How to Pop a Lock: 4 Easy Steps

Picking locks isn't a skill people tend to advertise but it's a handy one to have. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to pop a lock
How to Pop a Lock: 4 Easy Steps

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Popping locks is not a skill that everyone knows how to do but is a handy skill to have. Whether you’re locked out of your house or car, or you need to get into something that’s locked, knowing how to pick a lock can come in handy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pop a lock.

Step 1: Look for the Sweet Spot

The first step is to find the sweet spot, which is the part of the lock where the pins are most vulnerable. To do this, insert your tension wrench into the bottom of the keyway and apply light pressure. Then, with your pick, insert it into the top of the keyway and feel for the resistance. When you find the sweet spot, you’ll feel very little resistance. 

Step 2: Apply Pressure with Your Tension Wrench

Once you’ve found the sweet spot, it’s time to apply pressure with your tension wrench. Insert your tension wrench into the bottom of the keyway and apply pressure in the direction you want the pins to fall. For most locks, this will be clockwise. 

Step 3: Insert Your Pick and Start Picking!

Now comes the fun part—picking! With your pick inserted into the top of the keyway, start moving it up and down until you feel each pin start to give way. As each pin gives way, you’ll hear a clicking sound. Keep picking until all of the pins have clicked and you’re able to turn your tension wrench. 

Step 4: Turn Your Tension Wrench and Open Your Lock!

Once all of the pins have clicked, turn your tension wrench in the same direction you applied pressure in Step 2. If you did everything right, your lock should pop open! If not, don’t worry—just try again. With some practice, you’ll be an expert at popping locks in no time. 

Picking a lock isn’t a skill that everyone knows how to do, but it is a handy skill to have. It’s not as difficult as it may seem at first glance! By following these four easy steps and you’ll be opening locks like a pro in no time.

However, if you find yourself in a lockout situation and in need of a quick solution, calling a locksmith is always the quickest option with very little risk to damaging the lock.

When in Doubt, Call a Locksmith Out!

Sometimes those pesky locks just won’t release. If you find that you are having trouble and can’t seem to pop that lock, it may be best to go ahead and call a locksmith to come on out. Professional locksmiths are trained and licensed to assist in lockout needs, they have the tools and experience to help you out, and they’ll be able to do it quickly and without damaging your lock.

Midnight Run Services is a locally owned and operated business in Tulsa, Oklahoma that specializes in lockout situations. With more than 15 years of industry experience, our locksmiths are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so we can help you get back into your property any time of day or night. We’re bonded and insured for your peace of mind. So if you happen to find yourself contemplating picking a lock but not confident in the outcome, give us a call at Midnight Run Services and we’ll be happy to help you out. You can check out what clients are saying about us here.

As always, please consult with a licensed locksmith and security professional. See full disclaimer here.

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