How to Open a Locked Door Using a Paperclip

Locking yourself out of your house is a frustrating experience and can ruin your whole day. If you don't have a spare key and are running late for work, you can't call someone up to come let you into your house. Calling a professional is expensive and time-consuming, as well. The easiest solution is to pick the lock yourself. Learn how you can open most locks with only a tension wrench and a paperclip.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Paperclip
• Hammer
• Tension Wrench

1. Bend one end of a paperclip until it is straight.

2. Hammer the tip of the end you just unbent so that it is as flat as possible. Place the paperclip onto a hard surface, such as a driveway, so you don't dent the surface with the hammer.

3. Insert the tension wrench into the opening of the lock, at the bottom. Turn the lock to the side as if you were unlocking the door with a key. When the lock won't turn any more, keep holding the tension wrench and apply as much pressure as you comfortably can.

4. Insert the flattened end of the paperclip above the tension wrench. Push it in until you meet resistance. This is the first pin of the lock. Push up on the pin with the paperclip to try and move it out of the way. When it works, the tension wrench will turn a little further. Hold the wrench in this position, still applying pressure so the pin doesn't drop back down.

5. Take the paperclip out and push it back in again. When you meet the resistance of the next pin, push up on it as well until it moves and the tension wrench turns. Repeat this procedure with the rest of the pins until the lock opens.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're having problems, trying taking the paperclip out and putting it back in again. Sometimes jiggling the lock enough will move a stubborn pin.

• Keep a firm grip on the tension wrench. If it slips, you'll have to start over from the first pin again.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish