How to Unlock a Padlock With a Combination Dial or Key

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Plus, how to open a padlock if you forgot the key or the combination
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Padlocks are a great tool you can use to safely secure your possessions inside a locker, storage unit, toolbox, gym, or shed. In this article, we'll show you how to unlock 3 common types of padlocks: the single-dial combination , the multiple-dial combination , and the key lock . We'll also share simple tips for opening a padlock without a key or a combination in case you misplaced it.

Opening a Padlock: The 3 Most Common Types

  • Single-Dial : Turn the dial clockwise for the first number, counterclockwise for the second, then clockwise again for the last number in the combination.
  • Multiple-Dial : Rotate the dials left to right so the middle numbers match the code.
  • Key Lock : Insert the key into the padlock keyhole and turn it counterclockwise to unlock it.
Section 1 of 4:

How to Open a Single Dial Combination Padlock

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  1. Turning the dial 3 full rotations clockwise (to the right) will reset the numbers and allow you to input the first number in your combination. In most padlocks, if you don't reset it first, the code won't work.
  2. On your third rotation, line up the indicator on the top of the lock with the first digit in your combination. The indicator usually looks like an arrow or upside-down triangle.
    • Most new padlocks come with the combination etched on the back of the lock or listed somewhere in the packaging. [1] Write it down or save it on your phone so you know where to look if you forget it.
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  3. Turn the dial counterclockwise (to the left), passing the first number in the combination. Then, line the indicator up with the second digit in your combination. Stop rotating the dial after you stop on the second digit. [2]
    • Remember to pass the first number in the combination when turning the dial or your lock will not open.
  4. Complete the opening of your lock by rotating the dial clockwise until the indicator matches up with the last digit in the combination. Then stop turning the dial.
    • When you stop on the last digit in the combination, you should hear the click of the shackle disengaging with the lock's body.
  5. Gently pull down on the body of the lock to disengage it. Then, rotate the lock and remove it to access your storage or valuables.
    • If the combination lock is jammed, locksmith Trevor Maclise says you can try pulling on the shackle really hard or pushing the shaft inward a little bit. If neither of those options works, try inserting a small, thin piece of metal called a shim into the tiny gap on the side of the shackle where it locks in place. Then wiggle it to try to loosen the jam and spring the lock open.
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Section 2 of 4:

How to Open a Multiple Dial Combination Padlock

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  1. The first number in the code represents the number that your leftmost dial must be on to open the lock. Rotate the dials until the indicator on the side of the lock lines up with the first digit of the code.
    • Sometimes, the indicator for the numbers will be a red line or arrow.
  2. Continue rotating the rest of the dials from left to right until all three of the correct numbers are aligned with the indicator on the side. They should correspond with the code as you read it from left to right.
  3. Once you correctly input all the numbers, pull on the body of the lock to disengage the shackle. When you put the lock back on, make sure to rotate each dial a couple of times to reset the lock.
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Section 3 of 4:

How to Open a Key Padlock

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  1. Tilt the bottom of the padlock towards you so that you can see the keyhole. If it's dark where you are, you may need to use a flashlight or cell phone to illuminate the hole for you.
  2. Take the key with your index finger and thumb and firmly push it into the keyhole. If it doesn't fit into the keyhole, turn the key over and try again.
    • If the key won't fit regardless of what you try, there's a good chance that it's the wrong key.
    • Every key has a different profile which will push pins up inside of the lock and disengage the shackle when you have the right key.
  3. Most keylock padlocks will unlock when you turn the key counterclockwise, although this may not always be the case. Turn your key back and forth if turning it clockwise doesn't open it. You'll feel the shackle disengaging and will be able to open it easily once it's unlocked.
  4. Once the shackle has disengaged, pull on the body of the lock to free it. You can then rotate the shackle to remove it from whatever you're trying to open. When you close the lock back up, make sure that you feel and hear a click, which means that the shaft is locked in place again.
    • Some padlocks will require you to put the key in and turn it clockwise to lock it.
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Section 4 of 4:

How to Unlock a Padlock Without a Key or Combination

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  1. If you lose the key or the combination to your keypad, Maclise recommends picking the lock with a tension wrench and a lockpick called a rake. Stick the tension wrench into the top or bottom of the keyhole and hold it to the side with your fingertip with a small amount of tension. This tension will help the pins stay in place when you pick them so the padlock will open. Then, insert the rake into the keyhole and slowly wiggle it up and down to depress the pins.
    • Repeat this movement once or twice until you hear the pins click, then open the padlock.
    • You can also make your own tension wrench and rake with paperclips or using Bobby pins you have lying around the house.
  2. Sometimes, you can dislodge the shackle from the lock by simply tapping on the side of the lock. Apply tension on the shackle by pulling on the body of the lock, then hit the hammer on the side of the body to force open the shackle. [3]
  3. Most people think the best place to cut a padlock is the shackle. But the shackle is usually made of iron steel, which is a much tougher metal than you'll find on the body of the lock. If you try to cut through the shackle, you could damage your bolt cutters! Instead, position 18 in or 36 in (45.72 cm or 91.44 cm) bolt cutters over the body. Squeeze the handles and cut through the body, then pull out the shackle and remove the padlock. [4]
  4. Sometimes lock companies will be able to tell you your padlock combination if your lock has a serial number, which can usually be found as an engraving on the back of the lock. Call the manufacturer of your padlock or submit a lost combination form by mail, fax, or email. [5]
  5. If you can't find or remember the combination or the key for your lock, you can hire a professional locksmith to pick the lock or to cut the shackle to open it . Make sure to read reviews of your locksmith and call them to get a quote. A typical locksmith visit costs between $107 to $241. [6]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you cut a padlock shackle?
    Shawn Fago
    Master Locksmith
    Shawn Fago is a Master Locksmith and the Founder of Noble Locksmith, a nationwide locksmith company based in San Diego, California. With over seven years of experience, he provides commercial, residential, and automotive locksmith services to customers. Shawn attended California State University, Fullerton.
    Shawn Fago
    Master Locksmith
    Expert Answer
    Use something with a cutting wheel like an angle grinder with a cut-off blade on it. A Dremel with a metal cutting blade would also work. If that type of tool doesn't work, drill the the shear line on the lock cylinder and turn the cylinder to unlock it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 5
  • Question
    How do you pick a padlock with a tension wrench and a rake?
    Trevor Maclise
    Locksmith
    Trevor Maclise is a Locksmith and the Owner of Infinity Key Locksmith in San Diego, California. Trevor has over five years of experience in the industry. He specializes in working with residential doors, including door and frame replacements, door hardware installation, multi-point locks, and mortise locks.
    Trevor Maclise
    Locksmith
    Expert Answer
    Insert the tension wrench at the bottom of the key and hold it towards the side. While keeping tension on the wrench, insert the rake inside the lock and move it up, down, back, and forth as you try to touch all the pins. When you do that a couple of times, the padlock will usually open.
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    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 2
  • Question
    What if the padlock is frozen with ice and my key can't get into it?
    Community Answer
    Find the cheapest window to break, and enter. If possible, make sure that the window is in the garage so no cold air will get in.
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      Tips

      • If you've lost the code to your combination padlock, look on the back of it to see if the 3-digit code is stamped or engraved there. You can also check the original packaging or contact the lock manufacturer for help finding the code.
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      • If you've lost the key to your padlock, try picking it with a tension wrench and a rake.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/gCs3DlsShWQ?si=czy4aanAjmBX05TB&t=3
      2. ↑ http://content.masterlock.com/masterlock/resources/documents/pdf/Master_Lock_Combination_Tutorial.pdf
      3. ↑ http://lifehacker.com/open-a-claw-padlock-using-the-rapping-method-no-lock-1745794769
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/vZnisybIqrs?si=-3FgpELd312TjnRG&t=70
      5. ↑ http://www.masterlock.com/service-and-support/faqs/lost-combinations
      6. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/keys-home-locksmith-assistance-and-costs.htm

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To open a combination padlock, start by turning the dial 3 times to the right to reset the numbers, since most padlocks won't work unless they're reset. On your third rotation, turn the dial to the first number in your code. Next, turn the dial to the left until you land on the second number. Finally, turn the dial to the right to land on the last number, which should open your lock. Alternatively, if you’re using a key padlock, locate the keyhole on the bottom of the lock and insert the key. Then, turn it counterclockwise to open the lock. For tips on how to cut a padlock using bolt cutters, keep reading!

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