How to Solve a Lost Combination

locksmith Salem NH

At some point, you’ve probably stumbled upon a locked combination lock. Standing there dumbfounded, you try to think of where, or who may have the combination. If you’re still drawing a blank, it may be time to look at your other options. The first and most reliable option is to call your local locksmith in Salem, NH, Hayden Safe & Lock. The other options are to break the lock or use a shim. However, the second two options are not always a feasible solution depending on the lock. However, if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and give it a try, here are a few tips on recovering a lost combination.

 

Get to know your lock

Yes we know, this sounds a bit weird. However, every lock has parts and sticking points that you’ll need to become familiar with to solve its combination. By applying slight pressure to the lock, you may have better results when looking for the sticking points. Keep in mind that too much pressure will work against you, while not enough will allow the lock to spin freely.

 

Find your numbers

To find the numbers, you’ll need to have the right setting. In other words, you’ll need silence. Listening for a “click” as well as using the sense of touch will be the only tools you have to work with. Often, master locksmiths will utilize additional tools to increase the clarity of sound, making the sticking points easier to find.

Rule of thumb for most locks states that if the click happens between two numbers, you’ll want to round up to the higher number. Once you discover the first number based on the click, add five to that number, and you’ll have your first number to the combination. This number will also be your starting point.

 

The third number

There are several different methods for finding the third number of a combination lock. The most apparent is to continue with the process mentioned above. However, this may take time so, be prepared! An alternative is to note the numbers where the wiggle room occurs. For instance, if your lock moves between 20 and 22, write down the number in the middle, 21. If the number isn’t a whole number, don’t worry about taking note of it as lock combinations will always be whole numbers.

 

If you’re perplexed by a lost combination to a new or antique master lock, save the stress and give your favorite locksmith in Salem, NH a call, Hayden Safe & Lock. Our master locksmiths have the training and experience to handle any job presented. Contact us today at (978) 744-0988.

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