Deadbolt Unlocking Minus Key Instructions

Being locked out of your home or office due to a faulty or misplaced key can be incredibly frustrating. Thankfully, there are methods for gaining entry through a deadbolted door without needing a key.

Reasons for Needing Deadbolt Entry Sans Key

There are a few common reasons you may find yourself needing to open a deadbolted door without a key:

• You are locked out because you lost your keys or left them somewhere inaccessible
• You lent your spare key to someone and they failed to return it in time
• The lock is malfunctioning and your key no longer works
• You moved into a new home and were not given keys by the previous owner
• The lock was changed by someone else without your knowledge

Whatever the reason, picking, bumping, or drilling out the lock are your options for gaining entry without a properly working key.

Preventing Future Lockouts

While the methods below can get you out of a jam, it's best to take precautions to avoid getting locked out in the first place. Some tips include:

• Always keep a spare key in your wallet, with a trusted friend or neighbor, or in a hidden outdoor location
• Install a keyless entry system with a keypad or biometric scanner
• Ensure copies of all keys are accurately labeled and stored in a safe location

Tools for Picking, Bumping, and Drilling Locks

You'll need a few specialized tools, depending on which method you choose. Useful items include:

• Lock picking set - Contains tension wrenches and picks to manipulate lock components
• Bump keys - Keys cut to the lowest level of that lock type, used for bumping
• Lock lubricant - Graphite powder or spray lubricant to ease lock components
• Power drill - For drilling method - must be heavy duty with strong torque
• Drill bits - Cobalt or carbide, at least 3mm diameter for standard deadbolts

Acquiring Proper Tools

Quality tools are available from most hardware stores and websites. However, due to their potential use in criminal activities, some states prohibit possession of locksmith tools without proof of training or licensure. Research your local laws before purchasing.

Vulnerabilities of Deadbolt Lock Types

Familiarity with lock types and vulnerabilities aids in successful non-key entry. Most standard deadbolts fall into two categories:

Single Cylinder Deadbolts

• Keyhole on exterior side only
• Interior thumbturn freely moves bolt open without key
• Vulnerable to bumping, picking, and drilling exterior keyhole

Double Cylinder Deadbolts

• Keyholes on both sides requiring key to operate bolt
• No manual thumbturn so key needed to unlock either side
• Susceptible to bumping and picking if quality is low

Higher security options like Medeco and Mul-T-Lock use angled cuts and rotating elements to defend against picking and bumping. However, no lock is fully drill-proof.

Bumping Method for Lock Entry

Lock bumping utilizes "bump keys" inserted into the keyhole and struck sharply to temporarily separate the lock pins, allowing the bolt to turn:

1. Insert bump key fully into the keyhole without turning
2. Hold bump key firmly while maintaining light rearward pressure
3. Strike the key head sharply with a mallet/hammer until bolt unlocks
4. Repeat strikes while turning key slightly to operate bolt

Bumping Effectiveness

Bumping can be very quick if executing properly - less than 5 seconds in most cases. However, low-quality locks or improper bump key alignment may hinder success.

Picking for Gaining Deadbolt Entry

Manual lock picking manipulates the lock pins to match the key using tools like picks and tension wrenches - no keys involved. Follow these general steps:

1. Insert tension wrench at the base of the keyhole and apply light pressure
2. Insert pick and locate each lock pin while lifting gently
3. Apply additional pressure with tension wrench to set pins
4. Repeat steps until all pins are set and cylinder turns

Picking Points and Techniques

• Single picks versus rakes - rakes faster but less precise on security locks
• Leverage tension bar for rotational force to "catch" pins
• Impact direction of vector, depth, and slope of picking
• Advanced lifters, rocker pins, security pins impede success

Success lies between maintaining correct rotational tension while strategically manipulating pins. This takes extensive practice - don't get frustrated!

Drilling Method for Gaining Entry

As a last resort, drilling into a deadbolt lock destroys the cylinder and disengages the bolt. This leaves permanent damage but opens the door quickly. You'll need:

• Heavy-duty power drill (look for ample battery power or corded variety)
• High-quality cobalt/carbide drill bits at least 3mm diameter
• Lock lubricant like graphite powder or spray
• Eye protection/gloves for safety

Follow these key steps:

1. Spray/apply lubricant into the keyhole and face of the cylinder
2. Using moderate speed, drill straight into the keyhole 1cm then angle bit slightly while applying firm pressure to drill through cylinder
3. Repeat at adjusted angles every 1cm depth until reaching 4-5cm depth total
4. Bolt should disengage with tension wrench or by hand, then door opens

Drilling Considerations

This method leaves behind permanent damage, so use carefully and avoid landlord/tenant issues following unauthorized property alteration. Proceed drilling slowly to avoid drill bit breakage.

Secondary Deadbolt Access Strategies

Less elegant yet sometimes necessary secondary methods include:

• Prying door frame/jamb - Use pry bar to split door framing, allowing bolt retraction
• Removing hinges - Takes longer but allows door to separate from jamb so it can open
• Nearby window entry - Break smallest window safely, reach inside to open deadbolt door

These usually damage property more severely but provide alternate access when needed urgently.

Avoiding Damage and Legal Issues

Apply minimal needed force, stop attempts before causing costly repairs, and confirm you have authorization if drilling/forcing entry into property you don't own. Landlords often prosecute unauthorized lock alterations or property damage from break-ins.