Introduction: How to Crack Any Combination Lock in Seconds

This Instructable will teach you how to crack the code of any combination lock in a matter of seconds! This skill is only to be used legally and I am not responsible for anything other than teaching you how to unlock your own combination locks that you may have forgotten the code to.

Step 1: EXPLAINING HOW IT ALL WORKS

A combination lock (using a bike lock as an example as shown in the pictures above) has three or more dials with a keyhole through the centre of them. When correct code (in this case 9-2-4) is entered the keyholes of all the dials on the lock become aligned and toothed pin (second picture) can be inserted. When the dials are moved or jumbled, the keyholes become dis-aligned and the toothed pin cannot be removed and is therefore locked in place.

When picking/cracking a combination lock a length of rope can be used to create a makeshift handle to give you a better grip of the lock. A good grip is necessary because in order to crack the lock you will need to apply a strong and even upwards force on the shackle throughout the entire procedure and this can be difficult to obtain with just bare hands. Being able to apply strong even force on the shackle is vital in order to put a greater amount of friction on the locks dials so that when a dial is turned to the correct number it will result in a resounding 'click' and a slight upward movement of the shackle. When you feel the shackle move upwards slightly and release a 'click' you can move on to the next dial and repeat the procedure until all the dials on the lock have been completed and the lock has been cracked. If the lock is locked onto a solid object such as a gate or a door then a length of rope most likely won't be necessary as having it locked onto something gives you more control and grip thus meaning you will be able to complete the whole procedure with just your bare hands.

Step 2: GATHER YOUR EQUIPMENT

To be able to crack your combination lock all you will need is a length of cord or rope around 30cm long and the combination lock that you wish to unlock.

Step 3: FINDING THE RIGHT DIAL

First of all you will have to thread your length of rope through the loop on the lock and fold it in half around the shackle as shown in the first photo. This will become your makeshift handle that will give you a sturdier and stronger grip of the lock to make the procedure easier. Next clasp the rope tightly in your hands and push down on the top of the lock as hard as you can using your thumb finger and make sure to keep exerting the same amount of force on the lock throughout the whole procedure. While still keeping even pressure on the lock you now need to rotate each of the dials slightly in each direction. You will quickly find the dial that is the hardest to rotate which is the dial you will begin with (in my case it was 'C').

Step 4: CRACKING THE CODE

Start to gradually rotate the dial that is the until you hear a resounding 'click' and feel the shackle move upwards slightly. Check the dial and make a note of the number that it 'clicked' on then continue to gradually rotate that same dial to double-check (in my case dial 'C' was the hardest to rotate and it 'clicked' on '7'). If it continues to make a 'click' sound on the same number every rotation then you have successfully figured out the first digit of the code and you can now move onto figuring out the next dial. Once again rotate each of the remaining dials to find which is the hardest to rotate (in my case it was dial 'B'). Repeat the same process you used on the first dial until you have figured out the second digit of your code (in my case it was '1'). If you have a three digit combination lock like what I have demonstrated with, you should now only have one more dial to figure out. All you will need to do now is keep constant pressure on the lock and slowly twist the remaining dial in a full rotation. As you rotate the dial the last remaining digit needed for the code will match up with the other two you had previously figured out and the shackle should open.

Step 5: CONGRATULATIONS!

Now just learn to use this technique on everyone's garden sheds without being spotted or caught and you'll have free access to every tool you could ever wish for (boat lockers and storage sheds are also a good way to pick up a quick buck). Cheers!