Midnight Run Services

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

Table of Contents

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.

Send Us A Message
Share:
More Posts

Private Investigator
Job Summary

Private Investigator Job Summary

Midnight Run Services, Tulsa OK is currently seeking a Private Investigator to assist with various services. Depending on the client, you may perform background checks, investigate suspected theft or infidelity, or locate missing individuals. You must have a flexible schedule and be willing to travel, as you may need to conduct stationary surveillance or follow a lead out of the immediate area. In addition to stationary surveillance, you will also perform mobile and remote surveillance. Regardless of the method, your job is to discreetly obtain informative images and other evidence, which you then document in detailed investigation reports. Our ideal applicant has prior law enforcement or military experience.

Private Investigator Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform surveillance (stationary, mobile, or remote)
  • Document evidence and present detailed investigation reports to clients
  • Discreetly obtain informative or incriminating video and photo images (with date and time stamps)
  • Conduct case-specific research and interviews
  • Testify in court if necessary

Private Investigator Requirements and Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice preferred
  • State licensure or registration
  • Prior law enforcement or military experience preferred
  • Investigative or surveillance experience
  • Proficient with video and camera equipment
  • Valid driver’s license and a suitable surveillance vehicle

Protection
Job Summary

Midnight Run Services, Tulsa OK is looking for a physically capable individual with law enforcement or military experience to join our team as an Security Officer. All applicants must have their BSIS exposed firearm license and their guard card (or the equivalent state certification). In this role, you patrol and monitor surveillance equipment to ensure the safety of the property and all people on-site. We also expect our personnel to carry a mobile phone so they can communicate with the security team and report possible infractions.

Private Security Duties and Responsibilities

  • Patrol a designated area
  • Monitor surveillance equipment for possible issues
  • Ensure the safety of property and people on-site
  • Control access to the property
  • Respond to incidents and emergencies
  • Complete security logs and submit reports

Private Security Requirements and Qualifications

  • Guard card or equivalent state certification
  • BSIS exposed firearm license
  • Law enforcement or military experience strongly preferred
  • Baton or pepper spray certification a plus
  • CPR and first aid certification a plus
  • Physical stamina
  • Driver’s license
  • Mobile phone
  • Available to work nights, weekends, and holidays if necessary

Locksmith Job Summary

Locksmith Job Summary

Midnight Run Services, Tulsa OK has an immediate opening for a Locksmith. Your job duties will include installing, repairing, adjusting, and replacing  automotive, residential and commercial  locks and other door closures around various buildings and facilities; making duplicate keys when required; and managing the supply of keys for all staff, documenting when you issue keys and noting when they are returned. Our ideal candidate has completed an accredited locksmith program, is proficient in the techniques of the trade, and can use a variety of hand and power tools.

Locksmith Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lockout services for buildings, automobiles, and motorcycles
  • Transponder programming
  • Cuts new or duplicate keys and stamps with identification.
  • Address faulty, corroded, or malfunctioning traditional hardware
  • Interprets Master Keying Guide; uses appropriate discretion and special knowledge of lock systems to preserve the integrity of the commercial businesses master key system while meeting customer requests.
  • Installs, services, and repairs various types of locks and security devices.
  • Installs and repairs door hardware and hydraulic closing fixtures.
  • Disassembles locks; repairs and replaces worn tumblers, springs, and other parts.
  • Maintains records of work performed.
  • Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
  • Troubleshoots, repairs, and maintains both mechanical locking and electronic key card systems.
  • Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Locksmith Requirements and Qualifications

  • Relevant certificate from a vocational school or job training (preferred)
    Willing to train the right candidate
  • Experience with a variety of lockpicking tools and key-cutting hardware
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Related experience in carpentry, preventative maintenance, or electrical work is a plus