Q&A for How to Open a Locked Door with a Bobby Pin

A deadbolt lock has pins and tumblers, so you’d use the same method covered in this article. You will need 2 pins, or a second thin, narrow tool that can act as a tension lever.

If the window lock has a keyhole, then yes, it does work. It only works if there is a keyhole.

Try a jigsaw blade or a small hacksaw blade to pry it out. The small, sharp teeth should grab it.

It doesn't really matter. It will work either way. Remember: do not do this without permission of the owner. Otherwise, it's a felony.

Only if it's on your own property. Don't go around picking other people's locks. That's illegal.

If your tension lever isn't fitting into the bottom of the keyhole, it could be due to a few reasons. It may be too large for the specific lock you're trying to pick, or it could be oriented in the wrong way. Locks can have varying sizes and designs, so not all tools will fit all locks. Remember, tampering with locks without proper authorization is illegal and unethical. It's best to consult a professional locksmith for assistance.

In general, lock bumping should not damage a lock or prevent a key from working afterwards, as long as it's done correctly. However, repeated bumping or incorrect techniques could possibly harm a lock's internal components over time. Lock bumping is considered a lock-picking method and should be used ethically and legally. If you're having issues with your lock, consult a professional locksmith.

There could be a number of reasons, such as being too hard with it. Make sure that it's the right pin to use. Look for a different set of pins. some with better durability.

No. A regular-size bobby pin will work. An extra-large pin might not even fit into the lock.

It really depends on what type of lock your bathroom has. If it has the kind where it is just a hole that you have to push a nail into, you might be able to unbend the bobby pin and use the flat side and push that in.

Usually a deadbolt has a "thumb-knob" or "lever" on the inside of the door and you could use that to relock the deadbolt. Otherwise, such as where there is another key cylinder on the inside of the door, you may need to pick the lock closed in much the same you as you picked it open.

Yes, there are hundreds of types of locks and keys and many require different ways to unlock without a key. Some require specialized tools, techniques, knowledge and practice.

Bathroom privacy locks don't usually need a key -- just a sharp thin object like a skewer or ice pick that you insert into the hole and press the internal release spring to unlock the knob.

This makes no difference. The same technique applies for picking the keyway to release the lock.

A privacy lock that you describe is typically opened with a sharp tool inserted into the hole, finding the release button, and pressing it to release the spring that unlocks the handle. Such releases may be required on bathroom doors for safety/rescue purposes.

This will work with most types of locks, so basically most locks with pins and tumblers.

No, your lock will still function with the original key after being picked.

No. Car door locks usually have completely different mechanisms. And even if you could, it would most likely be challenging AND you would have to continuously do it to be able to start the car.

Probably not, but your picking may leave microscopic evidence inside the lock.