Q&A for How to Pick Locks on Doorknobs

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Question

How do I make a homemade skeleton key?

Glenn Letteer

Community Answer

That depends on the lock. Contrary to popular belief, a skeleton key does not open every lock. A skeleton key is a type of key used in old locks. If you have an item which requires one, find a key blank that fits the lock. Next, either use a black sharpie or hold it above a flame to blacken the key. Put the key in the lock and try turning it. Pull it out and notice the shiny spots. File them a bit, then blacken the key again. The general idea is, when the key stops having shiny spots, the lock will open. This is a form of "impressioning."

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Question

What if there is a handle that has to be turned? I need to pick a lock at school, and you have to turn a handle to open the door.

Glenn Letteer

Community Answer

A locked knob will NEVER turn even if the latched is manipulated as in the pictures above. If the knob turns, the door is not locked. A lever might turn if it is clutched, but it is not working the inner mechanisms if it is locked.

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Question

What other materials can you use for lock-picking aside from paper clips, Bobby pins and credit cards?

Community Answer

Usually any long, thin piece of metal works. Or, you can buy a lock-picking kit, although it may be illegal in some states of the US.

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Question

How do I use a key for the lock?

Community Answer

You should just have to slide the key into the lock and turn it, usually to the left. If you can't get the key in the lock, turn it upside down and try again.

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Question

My parents lock me in my room with the keyhole lock my way. How can I pick it with paper clips?

Community Answer

Use method one. It may help. Also, make the end of the top paper clip (that will be pushing the pins up) into a partial hook so it curls up to press the pins easier. It would be in the shape of the bottom end of a lower case "t." You can make that by taking a paper clip and stretching the end back and forth repeatedly in one spot until the metal cracks and leaves you with a little curled up end. Use that end to press up the pins the way it explains in the first method. The credit card method may work as well.

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Question

What do I do if I'm locked out of the house and I have no one to contact?

Community Answer

Call a locksmith. If you don't have a phone, go to a neighbor's house and ask if you can use theirs.

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Question

Is it illegal to have a lock-picking kit in California?

Ethel

Community Answer

In general, the lockpicks themselves are not considered illegal in California. However, legality comes into play when it is being used for criminal purposes. For example, if you ever plan to use your lockpicks to open a lock for money, a locksmithing license is required to be able to complete this work.

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