Lock Picking vs Lock Drilling

You're locked out. It's a frustrating situation, whether you're staring at your car in a parking lot, your front door after a long day, or the entrance to your business first thing in the morning. Your first thought is to call a locksmith, but what exactly will they do? The two most common methods for gaining entry are lock picking and lock drilling, and understanding the difference can save you time, money, and a perfectly good lock.

At Apex Lock and Key Colorado, servicing the entire Denver metro area and surrounding cities, we believe an informed customer is a happy customer. Here's a breakdown of these two techniques to help you understand what's happening when our technicians arrive to help.

Lock Picking: The Art of Finesse

Lock picking is a non-destructive method of opening a lock without the original key. It's a skill that requires patience, a delicate touch, and a deep understanding of how lock mechanisms work.

How It Works

A professional locksmith uses specialized tools to manipulate the pins inside a lock cylinder to the correct height, one by one. By applying precise tension with a tension wrench, the locksmith essentially mimics the action of the correct key, aligning the pins at the "shear line" and allowing the cylinder to turn.

When It's Used

Lock picking is the preferred, first-line approach for almost any lockout situation, including for your car, home, or business. A skilled locksmith will always attempt to pick a lock before considering more forceful methods.

Advantages of Lock Picking:

• Non-Destructive: The primary benefit is that your lock remains completely unharmed and fully functional after being opened.

• Cost-Effective: Since the lock doesn't need to be replaced, you save on the cost of new hardware.

• Preserves Your Keying: You can continue using your existing keys without interruption.

Lock Drilling: The Necessary Last Resort

Lock drilling is a destructive method of entry. As the name implies, it involves drilling a small, precise hole into the lock cylinder to destroy the pins and tumblers that keep it locked. Once the internal mechanism is disabled, the locksmith can manually turn the lock and open the door.

When It's Necessary

While a professional locksmith will always try to avoid it, there are specific situations where drilling is the only viable option:

• High-Security Locks: Some advanced locks are designed with anti-picking features, such as security pins or complex internal mechanisms, that make picking nearly impossible.

• Damaged or Malfunctioning Locks: If a lock is rusted, corroded, or has broken internal components, it may not be possible to pick it. The internal damage prevents the pins from moving correctly.

• Lost Keys Requiring a Lock Change: If you've lost all your keys and were planning to replace the lock anyway for security reasons, drilling is a quick and efficient way to gain entry before installing a new, secure lock.

Disadvantages of Lock Drilling:

• Destructive: The lock cylinder is permanently destroyed and must be replaced.

• Higher Cost: The service will include the cost of a new lock in addition to the labor.

It's important to note that a reputable locksmith drills as a last resort, not a first choice. Be wary of any service that immediately suggests drilling a standard lock without first attempting to pick it.

Apex Lock and Key Colorado: Your Trusted Solution

Whether you're locked out of your car in Aurora, need to get into your home in Lakewood, or have a business lockout in Denver, the professionals at Apex Lock and Key Colorado have the expertise to assess the situation and choose the right method for you.

We pride ourselves on our non-destructive entry skills, prioritizing the preservation of your property and saving you money whenever possible. Our technicians are equipped with the latest tools and training to handle a wide range of locks, from simple residential deadbolts to complex commercial systems. When drilling is unavoidable, we do it with precision to minimize any potential damage and can quickly install a high-quality replacement lock on the spot.

If you find yourself locked out, don't panic. Call Apex Lock and Key Colorado for fast, reliable, and professional service throughout the Denver metro area. We'll get you back inside safely and efficiently.