How to Break a Storage Cylinder Lock
If you need to break into a storage cylinder lock, you can use a few methods. However, some methods are more effective than others. Even the most experienced locksmith can find themselves stumped when faced with a storage cylinder lock.
These locks are notoriously difficult to pick, and even the slightest mistake can render them useless. This blog post will walk you through the most common ways on how to break a storage cylinder lock and provide tips on how to do it quickly and easily. We’ll also show you how to protect your belongings by using a padlock with a key. Stay safe and secure!
When Should You Break a Storage Cylinder Lock?
There are a few circumstances where you may need to break a storage cylinder lock. If you’ve lost the key and can’t find a replacement, if the lock is damaged and won’t open, or if you’re moving and need to quickly clear out the unit, breaking the lock may be your only option. Of course, breaking a lock should always be a last resort.
Not only is it illegal in some states, but it can also damage your belongings. Before you take this step, exhaust all other options, such as contacting the storage facility manager or calling a locksmith. Make sure your decision is well thought out and you’re prepared to take responsibility for the consequences.
How Does a Storage Cylinder Lock Work?
To understand how to break a storage cylinder lock, you first need to know how it works. A storage cylinder lock is a type of locking mechanism that uses a cylinder to secure the door or drawer. The cylinder is usually made of brass and has grooves on the inside that match up with pins outside the lock. When the cylinder is turned, the pins line up, and the lock can be opened.
If the cylinder is not turned, the pins will not line up, and the lock cannot be opened. To break a storage cylinder lock, all you need to do is force the pins out of alignment to no longer match up with the grooves in the cylinder. Ensure the device you use to break the lock is strong enough to withstand the force required to move the pins. If your lock is especially difficult to break, you may need to use a pick or a drill.
Different Types of Storage Lock
- Bolt Lock: A bolt lock is the most common type of storage lock. It consists of a thick metal bolt that slides into a hole in the doorframe, locking it shut. To open a bolt lock, you must insert a key into the keyhole and turn it.
- Padlock: A padlock is a portable lock that can be used to secure various objects, including storage units. Padlocks come in various sizes and shapes, but the most common type is the keyed padlock. To open a keyed padlock, you must insert a key into the keyhole and turn it.
- Combination Lock: A combination lock is a type of lock that does not require a key to open it. To open a combination lock, you must enter the correct sequence of numbers or letters into the keypad. Once the correct sequence has been entered, the lock will open.
- Disk Lock: A disk lock is a padlock with a metal disk attached to a shackle. The disk has a series of holes drilled into it, and the shackle goes through these holes. To open a disk lock, you must align the disk so that the holes in the disk line up with the locking mechanism. Once the holes are aligned, the shackle can be pulled through, and the lock will open.
- Cylinder Lock: A cylinder lock is a type of padlock with a cylindrical body and a locking mechanism activated by a key. The key turns a plug inside the lock, which raises or lowers pins in the cylinder. When the pins are raised to the correct height, the plug can be turned, and the lock will open.
- Digital Lock: Digital lock is a type of lock that uses a keypad to enter a code. The code can be changed as often as needed, making it a very secure option. To open a digital lock, you must enter the correct code into the keypad. Once the code has been entered, the lock will open. This type of lock is often used on safes and storage cylinders.
10 Effective Methods on How to Break a Storage Cylinder Lock
If you’ve decided that breaking your storage cylinder lock is your best option, there are a few ways to do it. Here we’ve given you ten effective methods, complete with instructions on how to break a storage cylinder lock.
1. Use a Screwdriver and Hammer
One of the quickest and easiest ways to break a storage cylinder lock is by using a screwdriver and hammer. Simply insert the screwdriver into the keyway and turn it until you feel resistance. Once you’ve found the resistance point, use the hammer to strike the screwdriver handle until the lock breaks. Make sure the hammer you use is heavy enough to break the lock, but not so heavy that it damages the surrounding area.
2. Use a Cylinder Lock Pick
If you have a cylinder lock pick, breaking into the storage unit will be a breeze. First, insert the pick into the keyway and attempt to find the pins. Once you’ve located the pins, use the tension wrench to apply pressure while you push up on each pin until they’re all in the shear line. This will release the plug and allow you to turn the knob. If the pins are proving to be difficult to move, you may need to use a pick gun or electric pick.
3. Drilling the Lock
Drilling is one of the most common ways to break into a storage unit, as it’s relatively easy to do and doesn’t require any special tools or skills. First, you’ll need to find the center of the lock. Once you’ve located the center, start drilling with a small drill bit. Slowly work your way up in size, being careful not to damage the surrounding area. If the lock is made of hardened steel, you may need to use a carbide-tipped drill bit.
4. Using a Bolt Cutter
If the lock is made of metal, you can try using a bolt cutter. Place the jaws of the bolt cutter on either side of the shackle and squeeze the handles together. If the metal is thick enough, the bolt cutter will snap the shackle and release the lock. Make sure the jaws of the bolt cutter are lined up properly, or you risk damaging the lock without breaking it.
5. Using a Pry Bar
You can try using a pry bar if the lock is made of wood. Place the flat end of the pry bar under the edge of the door and apply pressure. Once you’ve pried the door open far enough, the lock will break, and you’ll be able to access the storage unit. Be careful not to damage the door when using this method. If the door you’re using is made of metal, you may not be able to use a pry bar.
6. Use a Grinder
If you have a grinder, you can use it to break the storage cylinder lock. Start by putting on safety goggles and a dust mask to protect yourself from flying debris. Next, position the grinder so that the disc is level with the keyway. Apply pressure and grind through the metal until you’ve broken through the lock. Make sure no one is near you when you use the grinder, as flying debris can cause serious injury.
7. Use a Hammer and Chisel
You can also use a hammer and chisel to break the storage cylinder lock. Start by putting on safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. Next, position the chisel to flush with the side of the lock. Then, strike the chisel with the hammer to break through the lock. Finally, remove the broken pieces of the lock from the cylinder.
8. Using a Cutting Wheel
If you have a cutting wheel, you can use it to break the storage cylinder lock. Start by putting on safety goggles and a dust mask to protect yourself from flying debris. Next, position the cutting wheel to level with the keyway. Apply pressure and cut through the metal until you’ve broken through the lock. Make sure to keep your hands and body away from the cutting wheel at all times to avoid injury.
9. Using a Jackhammer
If you have a storage cylinder lock that is particularly difficult to break, you may need to resort to using a jackhammer. This is a more extreme measure, but it will get the job done. Before using a jackhammer on your cylinder lock, ensure you have put on all the appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, and ear protection. Also, mark the area around the lock so that you don’t accidentally damage anything else while trying to break the lock.
10. Using Fire
If you’re in a pinch and need to break into your storage unit quickly, you can try using Fire. This method should only be used as a last resort, as it can damage the contents of your storage unit. To use this method, you’ll need a small amount of flammable liquid, such as lighter fluid. Apply the fluid to the keyway and light it on Fire. The heat from the Fire will cause the metal to expand and break the lock.
These are just a few ways to break a storage cylinder lock. Remember to use caution when trying these methods, as they can damage your storage unit or contents. You may need to call a professional locksmith for assistance if you still have trouble.
Safety Precautions and Advice You Need to Take
- First and foremost, take the necessary safety precautions. This includes wearing gloves and eye protection and ensuring that the area around you is clear of any potential hazards.
- Find something that can be used as a lever. A screwdriver or a crowbar will work perfectly for this purpose.
- Insert the lever into the keyhole of the lock. Apply pressure to the lever to force the locking mechanism open.
- Once the lock is open, remove any contents inside the storage cylinder. Be careful not to damage any of the items as you remove them.
- When breaking the lock with a screwdriver, use a flathead screwdriver rather than a Phillips’s head. The latter can damage the locking mechanism and make it more difficult to open.
- Always use caution when breaking any lock. If done incorrectly, you can seriously injure yourself or damage the locking mechanism beyond repair.
- If you feel like you are in danger at any point, stop what you are doing and seek professional help.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to break open a storage cylinder lock easily! Just remember to take the necessary safety precautions and have the right tools on hand before getting started.
You Can Check It Out To Get a Cylinder Lock Out Without the Key
Conclusion
A storage cylinder lock is a type of lock that uses pins to prevent the rotation of the plug. This type of lock can be opened with a key or by using a wrench to turn the plug. This blog post have shown you how to break a storage cylinder lock using different methods.
After following these steps, you should be able to open any storage cylinder lock without using a key. Keep in mind that this method may damage the locking mechanism, so it is not recommended for use on locks that are still in use. Though it may seem daunting, with a little practice and the right tools, breaking into a storage cylinder lock is not as difficult as one might think. Thanks for reading.
