How To Unlock An Antique Lock Without A Key?

The more they are malleable, the better for the trick. It is recommended to use a paper clip as they work best when it comes to small locks.

This is because the small lock may most likely have some components inside, thus the paper clip.

In the case of a large Antique lock, you will have to form a hook-like structure. Bend the coat hanger at one of the ends such that it forms a 90-degree angle.

Following the above process results in an ‘L’ shaped figure. But make sure your vertical part of the ‘L’ ends up being a long handle for your pick to work effectively. For this try leaving the handle about ¾ part of the item you chose. This will make sure you are easily able to grip your DIY pick.

Step 2: Insert it into the Lock hole

Once you are done bending your chosen item into a makeshift device, insert it into the keyhole. Do so by gripping its handle and letting the hook-like end in the keyway.

You may have to wander around the inside of the look before you feel a little resistance.

This indicates that you have successfully hit the lever. And also that your pick has been inserted completely.

Sometimes happens that the lever is moving up and down but there is no resistance caused along with it. This means that the spring inside is broken. You can’t pick such a lock. Contact a locksmith instead.

Step 3: Twist and Unlock

The skeleton Key of an antique lock has two components. One is the lever which you have already cracked. Second- The Deadbolt. When the Deadbolt feels like moving into the open position, Bravo! You have finally picked the lock.

Now just twist and turn your DIY tool like a normal key. Don’t be very hard by putting too much force else you will end up damaging the lock.

Finally, your antique lock will pop open. Remember, this trick might need several tries so don’t be disappointed and give up at once.

If the prior method didn’t work out for you, don’t get disheartened. This might be because your antique lock can be a bit more complicated than it looks.

For such complex antiques, you might need a more heavy-duty and sturdier instrument.

Step 1: Find the Right Size and Insert

The foremost thing you need to do is find a screwdriver of the right measurement. Your flathead screwdriver should be small and thin enough to be able to fit in the keyhole.

The best is to keep a range of various sizes beside you.

Keep on checking by placing and removing the screwdrivers into the keyhole. Choose whichever fits the best and insert. You can insert a nail file alternatively.

The nail file should have a curved end to be able to open the lock. Again, make sure of its size.

Step 2: Look for the lever and twist

Try finding the lever by fumbling inside a keyhole for a while. You will feel a little resistance as the locking mechanism will push back when you finally hit the lever.

Also, like before you will feel the deadbolt moving in the open and empty position.

Apply the adequate amount of force required without putting the lock at risk, and twist. Do so as you would twist and turn in the direction with any normal key. And finally, you will have your lock open.

The stubborn deadbolt inside an antique lock is best handled by an Allen wrench if you don’t have the key. But this process is a bit more advanced.

Thus, may require somewhat more patience. Worth the patience to come to a higher rate of success too in unlocking with this method.

Step 1: Find a Fitting Wrench

If your lock is a normal-sized one, use 3/32 inches (0.24cm) Allen wrench. In the case of a small antique lock, use a smaller wrench of size 5/64 inches (0.20 cm).

If you don’t have an Allen wrench, bend two sturdy pieces of wire with a 90-degree angle on one end.

Step 2: Insert the First Allen Wrench

Insert it in the keyhole. Just like in the previous two methods, wander and wiggle inside the hole to find the position of the lever. It’s the mechanism that pushes back.

Try pressing the wrench to the closet of the side of the lock you are facing. This will help locate the lever more easily.

Step 3: Hold the lever

Once found, push the lever up with the right amount of force. This may take a few tries. You will have to keep on maintaining the same position till the lock is open.

Also, we have to use the second wrench now. Thus, it’s best to switch the first wrench to your non-dominant hand.

Step 4: Insert the Second Allen Wrench

Put it inside the keyhole such that it hooks behind the first one. A problem generally faced over here is that the second wrench doesn’t fit.

This happens because the first one is already taking up space. Thus, for the second wrench, you can use a smaller one. Or a bent sturdy piece of wire.

Step 5: Twist and turn the Second Wrench Clockwise

Twist it clockwise and lock for a resistance caused by deadlock. Keep twisting till it moves to the open position and the lock opens up. Remove the wrenches after this.

The methods above do involve a trick or two which can be perfected with practice. Still, if you are not able to take advantage of any of these ways, call a locksmith.

They have basic to professional tools required to make any lock open. Or an antique dealer may have a skeleton key that might work with your antique lock. Both of them can perform the job quicker than you probably can. They have adequate knowledge and skill set too.