How To Bump Locks Without Being Detected   by John Simms

in Home / Home Security    (submitted 2010-11-22)

It's very easy to learn how to bump locks. Now that the technique is not underground anymore, more and more people are now believing that there is such a technique that allows just about anyone to beat locks without proper training and lock picks. Ever since Klaus Noch shocked the public back in 2002 about the security risks brought by this technique, more and more people are trying it.

Some people are doing it as a hobby. After all, it can be considered as a skill and it does take a little bit of practice so you can master it. It's also a very handy technique especially if you always lose the keys around your house. With a bump key and the knowledge needed to use it, it's like having a master key that can open the locks in your home.

But that's not the reason why a lot of people are concerned. Thieves have been practicing the technique for decades and a lot of cases have gone undetected. This was not the case in the past as they were content on using the technique to be able to break in homes without caring if it's later detected or not. But through the years, they were able to develop strategies to escape detection. These helped them become more effective and efficient in the craft. As homeowners, we have to know these things so that we can keep up. After all, they've already had decades as a headstart.

1. Use the right tools.

A lot of people totally disregard using the right tools. Of course, the bump key is already a given and it's hard to go wrong with it. You can easily buy bump keys online or at locksmith shops. But that's just one-half of the tools that you'll need. You also need something to bump it with. This is where things can go wrong. Some people immediately grab a hammer when they're instructed to bump the key. You will need something subtler. You can still use the hammer but use the handle instead of the head. A better tool is a screwdriver but just like the hammer, use the handle side.

Using a hammer is also not advisable because you might miss the key and hit the door or lock instead. That will be a clear sign of "forced entry".

2. Use the right force.

Some people tend to take the word "bump" seriously. Simply put, don't hit the key too hard. You just need force that's enough to make the pins jump. On that note, you have to remember that the inside components can be fragile. You don't have to make the pins jump "through the roof". A tap is a better term to use. A small tap is all you need and you don't have to worry about losing the force since the strategy follows Newton's Laws so you can be sure that the action will get an equal reaction.

3. Check the lock first.

Bump keys work best with pin tumbler locks and there are locks that are designed to be bump-proof. If it's designed that way, don't force it.

4. Practice!

You can't go undetected if it will take you 100 tries to get it right. It's all about the timing. You have to develop timing if you want to learn how to pick a lock without being detected and you can only get it with practice.

If you're not yet convinced, you can try it yourself. You'll soon find out why this is a favorite tactic by thieves.

About the Author

The writer presents an in-depth lock bumping guide, along with beneficial tips on improvised tools and general home security. These knowledge is important so you'll know how to secure yourself and your family. Learn more about this writer by going to the how to bump locks website.