How to Pick a Bolt Lock with a Credit Card? Possible or Not? Complete Explanation

Have you ever found yourself in the frustrating predicament of forgetting your keys inside your home? If you have, then you know the irritation of standing outside your own door, contemplating what to do next.

It’s a situation that can make you consider trying out some tactics straight from the movies before reluctantly deciding to call a locksmith or even resorting to the extreme option of breaking the lock entirely.

Specifically, we’re exploring the possibility of sliding a credit card through the door to gain access. So, the question on your mind might be: How to pick a bolt lock with a credit card?

How to Pick a Bolt Lock with a Credit Card? Possible or Not?

It is not possible to pick a Bolt Lock with a Credit Card, so we cannot mention steps of how you can pick a bolt lock with a credit card.

This method is only effective for locks equipped with spring-bolt latches, and even then, it’s only successful when the lock’s installation is subpar and outdated. In most cases, your best bet for safe and reliable unlocking is still the trusty old key. (Can You Open a Deadbolt Lock with a Credit Card?)

Indeed, there are alternative methods to open a lock. If you find yourself with a key in hand and the lock refusing to cooperate, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Stick around, and we’ll guide you through the process step by step until the lock yields.

How to Pick a Lock with a Credit Card (Latches Lock)

You can pick a lock with a credit card (latches lock) by following the steps mentioned below:

• Step 1: Begin by gently sliding the card beside the doorknob, carefully wedging it between the knob and the door frame. Make sure to angle it at 90 degrees. With your free hand, push the door inward to gain a better view of the door frame’s alignment.
• Step 2: Gradually tilt the front of your credit card until it almost touches the doorknob. Allow the card to venture further into the gap between the door and the frame.
• Step 3: Now, bend the card in the opposite direction to slide it beneath the angled part of the bolt. This action will exert pressure on the bolt, causing it to retract into the door.
• Step 4: Swiftly proceed to open and unlock the door from the other side.
• Step 5: In case the door remains stubbornly shut, consider flexing your card multiple times against the door. The added resistance may encourage the latch to disengage.

Can You Pick A Deadbolt With A Credit Card?

No. To be completely frank, using a credit card to pick a bolt lock won’t work, and you cannot pick a deadbolt lock with a credit card. However exceptions do exist.

Deadbolts typically feature geared locks, and the credit card technique is effective only when a lock has latches. However, it’s important to note that picking a dead latch is nearly impossible when the lock installation is secure.

The vulnerable locks that may yield to the credit card trick usually allow you to insert the card between the door and the jamb. If there’s even a slight gap, you can slide the card and push it against the spring bolt, potentially unlocking the door without a key.

But, it’s crucial to understand that this cinematic trick fails when dealing with a deadbolt lock, as it lacks the necessary latch. Also enjoy How to Pick a Door Lock with a Credit Card? Video and Step by Step Guide for enhancing your vision in this regard.

Is There A Way To Pick A Deadbolt Lock? – Alternate Ways to Pick a Lock

While the movie trick of using a credit card fails with a deadbolt lock due to the absence of a latch, there are legitimate methods to unlock a deadbolt lock:

1. Pick the Deadbolt lock by Using a New Key

The most conventional and secure way to unlock a deadbolt lock is with the proper key. A locksmith can make a new key for your lock by using a code that’s specific to that lock.

They can find this code by making an imprint of your current key, putting a blank key into the lock, or taking the lock apart to see its inner workings. However, some locks are really tricky, and it might be really hard or even impossible to make a new key for them.

2. Lock Pick Set

Locksmiths and skilled individuals can use lock pick sets to manipulate the lock’s pins and tumblers to unlock a deadbolt.

3. Master Lock Bump Key

A bump key is a specially crafted key that can be used to unlock certain deadbolt locks. However, this technique should only be used by professionals or individuals with proper training.

Bump keys can often be found easily in local stores. To use one, simply insert it into the lock and then gently tap the key with a screwdriver.

This tapping exerts pressure that can cause the pins inside the lock to shift and eventually unlock the door.

4. Pick a Deadbolt Lock with Bobby Pins

You’ll need two bobby pins for this method. Begin by straightening one of the pins and bending it at a 90-degree angle to create a tension wrench.

Now, for the picking part, Insert the curved end of the other pin into the lock and leave it there. Then, use the first pin (the tension wrench) to apply pressure gently. With this pressure in place, use the second pin to push the lock’s pins upward.

After a bit of maneuvering, the lock should eventually unlock. Once it does, you can easily open the door. This technique can also work using paper clips if you don’t have bobby pins on hand.

Find out detailed information here.

5. Pick a Deadbolt Lock with Screw Driver

The idea here is a bit like using a bobby pin to open a lock. You’ll need a screwdriver that fits the lock’s keyhole. Gently put the screwdriver in and out while wiggling it around inside.

As you do this, the lock’s little pins will fall into place, and you can keep wiggling until the lock opens. It’s like a puzzle where you’re making the pieces fit together to unlock the door.

Find out detailed information here.

6. Call a Locksmith

If you’re locked out and don’t have the necessary tools or skills, it’s best to call a professional locksmith who can safely unlock the deadbolt for you.

Always remember that attempting to unlock a deadbolt lock without proper authorization can be illegal and may result in damage to the lock. It’s essential to use these methods responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

How to Open a Jammed Deadbolt Lock? – Checklist of 9 Steps

How to open a jammed deadbolt lock following 9 steps… Here is how!!!

1. Find Out Why Your Lock Isn’t Working

Let’s figure out why your lock isn’t working. There are a few common reasons.

• One reason is that the inside of the lock might be rusty, especially if it’s been wet and windy. Moisture can sneak into the keyhole and make the lock act up.
• Another reason could be extreme temperatures. If it’s very cold, the lock’s inner parts might get stuck. In that case, you can try gently warming it up before using your key.
• Lastly, dust can be a big problem. Tiny bits of dust and dirt can get inside the lock over time. As they build up, they can mess with the lock’s design. This can make your key not work anymore because the dust has changed how the lock works.

2. Gather Required Materials

Now, let’s gather the things you’ll need for the next steps. Here’s your shopping list:

1. Powdered graphite or Teflon spray
2. TD-40 (not WD-40)
3. A 4-in-1 screwdriver
4. Kerosene (if rust is the issue)
5. A key extractor
6. An old key
7. A hammer

Avoid using WD-40, as it can make things worse by attracting more dirt. Stick with TD-40 for this task.

3. Use Lubricant

Once you have your tools, apply Teflon or graphite spray inside the keyhole, not on the outside. This dissolves rust and can restore the original key pattern if it’s been altered.

4. Soak if Still Rusted

For recent rust, a bit of kerosene is sufficient. But if it’s been there for months, let it soak. Kerosene has degreasing properties, making it useful for cleaning outdoor tools and equipment.

5. Use of Keys

If you lack a spray can, an old key can serve as an applicator. Dip it in the degreaser and insert it into the lock. Move it back and forth regularly.

Once the rust softens, you can use the key to scrape it off gently. Be cautious and avoid rushing; aggressive cleaning might harm the key pattern.

6. Hammer Tapping

As you wiggle the key, add an extra step. Grab a small hammer and lightly tap the lock. This dual approach helps reposition the internal parts to their original spots.

Sometimes, these parts can disconnect or shift. By gently turning the key and tapping the lock, you apply pressure that can swiftly resolve the disengagement issue.

7. Unscrew the Bolts

By now, you should be able to unlock the door with your actual key. If not, and there’s someone inside, you can try another method.

The person inside can use screwdrivers to unscrew and remove the bolts that secure the lock to the door. This process may take some time as each bolt needs to be removed one by one.

8. Testing

Once you’ve removed the lock, you can open the door without a key. But be cautious about re-locking it. Before doing so, thoroughly test the lock. Clean it and then reinstall it on the door.

Test the lock while the door is open. This way, if the lock happens to malfunction again, you won’t find yourself locked inside.

9. Call Professional Locksmith

If you’ve followed all the steps and still can’t open the jammed deadbolt lock, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact your local locksmith to assist you.

We recommend this approach over DIY methods because trying to force it open further might cause more damage to the lock. Locksmiths have specialized tools and knowledge that you might not be aware of, and they can save you a lot of time and effort.

Conclusion

Opening a deadbolt lock with a card might seem simple in movies, which is why many people wonder how to pick a bolt lock with a credit card. Unfortunately, it’s not a practical method. However, there are legitimate lock-picking techniques that can be utilized.

If you have a key that doesn’t work on a jammed lock, you can follow our guide to fix it and gain access. So, while the credit card trick doesn’t work, there are effective ways to deal with locked doors.

FAQ’s

Is it really possible to pick a bolt lock with a credit card?

In reality, it’s highly unlikely to successfully pick a bolt lock with a credit card, as most deadbolt locks are designed to resist such methods.

Are there any legal consequences for attempting to pick a bolt lock with a credit card?

Attempting to pick a lock without proper authorization is typically illegal and may result in legal consequences, depending on your jurisdiction and intent.

What should I do if I accidentally damage the lock while trying to pick it with a credit card?

If you unintentionally damage the lock during your attempt, it’s advisable to contact a professional locksmith to assess and repair the damage. Attempting DIY repairs may further worsen the situation.

Resources

1. Can You Open a Deadbolt Lock with a Credit Card?
2. How to Pick a Door Lock with a Credit Card? Video and Step by Step Guide
3. USER’S GUIDE ON CONTROLLING LOCKS, KEYS AND ACCESS CARDS
4. High-Security Mechanical Locks An Encyclopedic Reference
5. Lock Picking Tools: How Much Skill Do You Really Need? Bump Keys, Lock Picks, Lock Guns
6. Lock-Picking Made Easy: New Key Duplication Tool Demonstrates Physical Security Risk