How to Open a Combination Lock

Using a combination lock is an easy way to help keep valuables secure in a locker while in class or at the gym. Common combination locks, like the ones found on most high school lockers, include a dial that can be rotated both clockwise and counterclockwise past notches representing numbers zero through 39. To open this type of lock, you will need to know its unique, three-number combination that is supplied when these locks are purchased. For explanation purposes, let’s assume that the lock you want to open has a combination of 10, 25, 30.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Use your free hand to clasp the dial.

   Hold the combination lock in one hand and use the other to grasp the dial in the center with the thumb and index finger.

2. Turn the dial so that the vertical line above the number zero is directly lined up with the arrow notch at the top of the lock.

3. Twist the dial clockwise—from left to right—for three full rotations until the number zero is once again lined up with the arrow notch.

4. Rotate the dial further to the right and stop when the arrow notch is pointing to the number 10.

5. Turn the dial counterclockwise—from right to left—past the number 25 once and stop when it’s directly below the arrow notch on it the second time around.

6. Twist the dial to the right and stop when the arrow notch is directly above the number 30.

7. 
   The shackle should easily come out of the lock if the combination was properly dialed.

   Pull up on the shackle to open the lock.

Tips & Warnings

• The lock will not open if the exact numbers of the combination are not stopped on or if the dial is turned in the wrong direction. You must start over and go through all the steps correctly for the lock to open properly.
• To close the lock, press the shackle back into the hole near the top of the lock. It doesn’t matter what number the arrow notch is pointing toward to close the lock.