It’s never fun to deal with a lock that, for whatever reason, won’t easily open, especially when you need to access somewhere or something during a time crunch. Luckily, this is where emergency locksmith services come in handy. If you’re locked out of a place or can’t easily access sensitive information, you can take advantage of emergency locksmith services that are available on a 24/7 basis. What you probably don’t know is that emergency locksmiths utilize a wide variety of emergency lock bypass techniques to do their job. Keep reading to learn more about them. 

4 Emergency Lock Bypass Techniques 

There is no shortage of lock bypass techniques in a locksmith’s skillset. While breaking down a door or cover is an option, you want to attempt all options and leave the option of forced entry as a last resort. Here are just four essential emergency lock bypass techniques that locksmiths utilize every day: 

1. Bump Keys

Bump keys are the primary tool used in lock bumping. A bump key is cut to the maximum depth possible with short teeth and, with the right amount of force, aligns the pins in a way to trigger the lock plug to slide open. This technique is considered 90% effective by experts and is most effective with locks that are mass-produced, so this technique isn’t always going to work with every lock. `

2. Impressioning

Impressioning is a useful skill that even people who aren’t locksmiths can learn. This emergency lock bypass method doesn’t require the complete disassembly of a lock. Instead, the locksmith uses the lock’s internal configurations to help make a new key that’ll be just as effective. This process involves inserting a key blank into a lock with an impression tool, moving it around, and then seeing the marks left on the blank by the pins. These marks will serve as a guide for cutting the new duplicate. 

3. Decoding

Another one of the most commonly utilized emergency lock bypass techniques is decoding. This technique uses tools to determine the key’s unique shape or code to create a duplicate. Pin tumblers and wafer decoders are the two tools used most often by locksmiths. The former works with locks that use pins, while the latter is used for locks that use plates instead of pins. To avoid any potential problems, experts recommend having a professional decode your lock. 

emergency lock bypass techniques decoding

4. Lockpicking Techniques 

Finally, there are many lockpicking techniques to choose from if you need to bypass any locks. You can use a standard lockpicking toolkit or improve your own lockpicking tools. These impromptu lockpicking tools include but are not limited to, a tension wrench, a paperclip, bobby pins, and many others. While you can learn how to pick a lock yourself, if you’re in a time-sensitive or emergency situation, leave the lockpicking to the professionals. 

Take Advantage Of Our Emergency Locksmith Services At ASAP Locksmith!

Bump keys, impressions, decoding, and good old-fashioned lockpicking are just four of the most notable emergency lock bypass techniques used by locksmiths. While forcing open a lock is another option, it’s best to leave that as a last resort when all other methods fail. Whether or not you feel comfortable attempting these emergency lock bypass techniques yourself, you’ll find the most success by reaching out to a professional locksmith. 

Letting a professional locksmith take the reins will reduce the likelihood of having to pay for additional repair and replacement services for your lock. If you live in the great state of Iowa, you can easily access these emergency locksmith services through our ASAP Locksmith team in Des Moines. Contact us today, and our locksmiths will promptly address your lock and key needs.