how do you open a master lock with a shim

Insert the shim into the clearance on the shackle

, twist and push the shim down as far as possible. When the shim is inserted rotate it around the shackle so that the tongue of the shim approaches the latch from the side. Once the shim has been rotated enough to disengage the locking mechanisms the shackle can be pulled to open the lock.

Full Answer

How do you open a Master Lock with a paperclip?

Open the bobby pin or paperclip to a 45-degree angle. Place the pin or paperclip into the left side of the top loop in the master lock. This is the portion of the lock that will open once the inside spring has been disengaged. Slide another bobby pin or paperclip around in the master lock in order to disengage the spring from the lock.

How do you open a locked door with a shim?

You could call a locksmith or cut the shackle, but you may be able to quickly and easily open it with a shim, a thin piece of metal that you slide into the locking mechanism. You can buy shims for anywhere from $2-20, or you can make them with metal you have laying around the house. Here’s how to create and use a shim made from an aluminum can.

How do you pick a Master Lock with scissors?

1 Open the bobby pin or paperclip to a 45-degree angle. ... 2 Slide another bobby pin or paperclip around in the master lock in order to disengage the spring from the lock. ... 3 Create a thin shim out of an aluminum can as an alternate method for picking a master lock. ... 4 Use the scissors to cut out the homemade shim. ... More items...

How do you Shim a lock with a pen?

You can do this by bending the shim around the shackle itself, or you can shape it around a pen or pencil (as long as the pen or pencil doesn’t have ridges). Your shim is now finished. Use the shim on a padlock. Some more advanced locks will require you to use two-one shim on each side of the shackle.

How to open a master padlock without a key?

Why do you need to clamp the sides of the handles?

How to cut off a paperclip?

Can you use two paperclips to open a master lock?

Do you grind pins?

Can you open a classic lock?

See 1 more

How do padlock shims work?

A shim is a tool that is used to bypass padlocks. It works by retracting the spring-loaded catch that restrains the shackle. Like other types of lockpicks, shims can be professionally made or improvised out of easily available materials like aluminum cans.

How do I reset my Master Lock anti Shim?

To set your own combination:Locate 'reset' tool on back of package. Insert tool in side of lock. ... Push tool in and turn 90° clockwise. Must PUSH IN AND TURN to reset combination.Set to desired combination. ... Be sure to record your new combination at www.masterlockvault.com.Close lock and scramble dials to close.

What does it mean to shim a lock?

Shimming is defined as violating a lock by inserting a foreign object into the latch mechanism. This is an industry wide issue – nearly all dial type combination hanging padlocks from all lock manufacturers are affected.

How do I force a Master Lock to open?

Turns out, any Master Lock can easily be broken into with just a small hammer. As this video illustrates, all you need to do is tap the side of a Master Lock with a hammer to get it to open, no key, no combination required.

What do you do if your Master Lock isnt opening?

Please try resetting the lock again by following the instructions below:Place lock in the open position.On the back of the lock, slide the reset lever into the “up” position.Insert the shackle into the lock and squeeze firmly twice to “clear” it.Pull up on the shackle to open the lock.Enter your new combination.More items...

How do you open a Master Lock if I forgot the combination?

You can visit a Master Lock Distributor / Retailer or submit a Lost Combination form. Bring your lock to the retailer. Be sure that it is not attached to anything. If you do not bring the lock, or it is attached to something, we will not release the combination.

How do you use a shim?

How to Use Shims. Once a door or window is seated into the opening, place shims in any gaps between the window or door casing and the framed opening. Use a hammer or mallet to gently tap the shim into place, using a level to check that the window or door is moving toward plumb or level as desired.

Do you screw through shims?

The screws must penetrate through shims so they don't stress the doorframe. Countersink the screw heads a small amount so they don't interfere with the hinge when you put it back in place.

How do you manually shim?

How to manual shimIn Topspin, lock the sample.Type lockdisp to display the lock window.type bsmsdisp to display the shim window.In the bsmsdisp window, find the buttons z and z2.Click z. ... Click the + or – button to adjust z value and watch if the lock line is going higher or lower. ... Click z2. ... Click z and repeat step 6.More items...•

How do you open a Master Lock door without a key?

0:371:42How To Open a Lock Without a Key! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe reverse lock option and then by a few tugs you could just open the lock with no problem at all.MoreThe reverse lock option and then by a few tugs you could just open the lock with no problem at all.

How do you open a Master Lock with a knife?

1:323:56How To : Pick Open A Small Padlock...WITH A KNIFE!!! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWant. There you go all right this will work with pretty much anything that's small and flat. It'sMoreWant. There you go all right this will work with pretty much anything that's small and flat. It's just uh kind of impressive to use a knife. And obviously.

How do you open a Master Lock with a hammer?

0:181:12(728) Rapping on Master Lock for a FAST OPEN! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere just give it a few knocks. While applying tension. And you will eventually overcome. TheMoreHere just give it a few knocks. While applying tension. And you will eventually overcome. The locking mechanism.

How do you change the 4 digit code on a Master Lock?

0:001:16Reset the 4 Digit Master Lock Code - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd push it down and you'll see there's a tiny little piece of metal. There. You if you're able toMoreAnd push it down and you'll see there's a tiny little piece of metal. There. You if you're able to push that down. And reset the combination.

How do you reset a lock pad?

0:472:16How To Set Or Reset A Combination Lock Pin - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTop then once it's popped up we're going to turn it around 270 degrees back the other way back toMoreTop then once it's popped up we're going to turn it around 270 degrees back the other way back to the shackle lock and push down. Then once we've pushed it down we're going to lift it back up.

How do you reset a Master Lock wall mount?

Setting a New Combination for your 5401 Wall Mount Lock BoxOpen the compartment door.Push the reset lever left and down. ... Rotate dials to your desired combination.Push the reset lever, up and right, back to the original position.Close the key storage compartment door.More items...

How do you reset a Master Lock clip?

0:051:07Operating the Master Lock 1548DCM Backpack Combination LockYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere you see our sample combination. Two four six release the thumb piece and ensure the lock opens.MoreHere you see our sample combination. Two four six release the thumb piece and ensure the lock opens. Then scramble the dials to lock the lock. To reopen the lock set the dials to your new combination.

5 Steps to open master lock without a key - Locksmith PHILLY

A master lock is known as the master of all locks in this world. A master lock is used by many people around the world to make their items safe. A master lock is a very convenient and handy lock.

How To Open Master Lock Key Box (Without a Code)

Have you lost the master code to your lock box? Don’t freak out, there’s a way you can still get it open. Luckily, you can bypass the master code in several ways if you have the serial number. It is a quick process, so follow along as we explore the steps that you can take when you forget the code for your Master Lock.

6 Ways to Open Master Locks - wikiHow

Tons of ways to successfully break into any Master Lock Sometimes, you have a master lock, and no combination. Here are several methods you can try to open a Master Lock. It is important, to know if you have a light duty, heavy duty or...

How To Open A Padlock Without A Key: 10 Easy Methods - SafeNow

1. The Shim Method. To start us off, we have the shim method. First things first, to explain what a shim is. It is a small piece of metal that is shaped in such a way that can be maneuvered into the top part of the lock, where the shackle meets the body. To start you off, insert the thicker part of the shim into the body of the padlock.

How to open a master padlock without a key?

Try to move the shim in a circle from one end to the other. Stay calm if you don’t see movement. This is because it’s looking for the latch inside. Continue moving the shim until you hear a click indicating that you have successfully opened a master padlock without a key.

Why do you need to clamp the sides of the handles?

Since the cutters are set in a V shape, you need to clamp the sides of the handles so that they come together and form a straight line. That’s only the theory, therefore, you can stop the process when enough force is applied and the shackle breaks.

How to cut off a paperclip?

Use pliers to cut off one end of the paperclip where there is no circular crease.

Can you use two paperclips to open a master lock?

This is also a way of opening a master lock without a key where you don’t need to break your lock.

Do you grind pins?

Since that will be the side where the pins exist , you’ll need to grind until you see the pins and they fall out.

Can you open a classic lock?

There are many ways to open a classic lock because its security is not high. However, knowing the theory will not open the lock, you will also need to have lots of patience and practice. Having your master lock lost key is annoying, so when you successfully open the lock, equip yourself with methods to prevent the recurrence.

2. Clear the Lock

The thumb rule for cracking any lock is to establish a standard point from which you can launch your cracking process. When it comes to the master lock, the starting point is clearing the lock. To clear the lock, you should start by spinning the dial a minimum of three or four times, ensuring you pass the zero mark every time.

3. Crack the 3rd Number in the Combination

After clearing the lock in the cracking procedure, the next step is to look for the 3rd number of your combination. This may sound a little bit odd. You could be wondering why not start by cracking the first number in the combination.

4. Find the 1st Sticking Point

While rotating the lock’s dial in the anticlockwise direction as per the step above, you will find yourself reaching a point where you cannot rotate the dial freely. You will notice that the dial is stuck in a groove between 2 numbers.

5. Find the 2nd Sticking Point

Having found the first sticking point, our next objective is to get the second one. To achieve this, you have to start by releasing the shackle tension and then turning the dial slightly clockwise past the 1st sticking point, 6 or 6.5 in our example above.

6. Find the Rest of the Sticking Points

Having obtained two of the twelve sticking points, you need to look for the remaining ten by repeating the same procedure to crack the 3rd number in the combination. Ensure that you record all the sticking points as you had done with the first two.

7. Crack the 1st Number in the Combination

As aforementioned, cracking the other numbers leaves you with ten possibilities. To begin with, you have to divide the distinct number or the third number by four. In our case, it is dividing 29 by four. When you have divided, your concern shall be the remainder which is 1.

8. Crack the 2nd Number in the Combination

Having cracked the first number, you should be able to crack the 2nd number. To crack the 2nd number of your combination, you go back and check the remainder you used in the above step. In our case, the remainder was one. You are supposed to add two to one (1+2).

What happens if you get a shim stuck in a lock?

Just don’t try to force anything, because if you get a piece of the shim stuck in the lock, it will make your job even harder. Once you have driven the shim into the shackle housing, take the tabs you created and pull on them from side to side.

How to make a shim out of metal?

Cut an M-shaped design on half of the square. Aim to create the point of the shim by cutting out two humps a little bit in from each side of metal (see picture). Try to make the cuts as smooth as possible, and try to get rounded humps, as opposed to pointed triangles.

How much does a shim cost?

You can buy shims for anywhere from $2-20, or you can make them with metal you have laying around the house. Here’s how to create and use a shim made from an aluminum can.

Why is it illegal to carry shims in public?

Carrying shims in public may be illegal because in some areas they are considered weapons.

What tools do you use to cut aluminum?

Tin snips or scissors; tin snips are the easiest tools to cut the aluminum with, but you can also use scissors or a knife. If you use either of the latter tools however, use some that you can afford to destroy, because cutting the metal may dull them significantly. Needle-nose pliers.

How to make a metal ring?

Cut the metal rectangle in half with a line running the long way of the rectangle. Divide the metal into two long strips. Cut the strips into squares. You should be able to make four or five squares, each about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5cm) on each side.

How to cut a can of metal?

Cut a straight vertical line down the side of the can. Try to make the cut as straight as possible ––many cans have a “seam” that you can use as a guide. You want to be able to flatten out the piece of metal into a rectangle.

What to do if you don't know the combination of a master lock?

If you don't know the combination to a Master Lock combination lock, you have a few options. If your lock is attached to something, you can break the lock, call a locksmith or use a shim. However, these options could put a dent in your wallet. Sometimes, your cheapest option is to figure out the combination.

How to crack a master lock?

To crack a Master Lock combination lock, download a lost combination form on the Master Lock website. Then, fill out the form and pay to have it notarized. Once you've completed the form, mail it to the Master Lock warehouse along with a photo of the lock and the lock's serial number.

How to turn lock combination to right?

If you know the code, place the lock so the combination dial faces you. Then, turn the combination to the right three times but on the third time, stop at your first digit of the code. Then, turn the dial left one complete turn, passing the first digit and stopping at the second digit of your code.

How to seal tumblers with epoxy?

If your lock has a key way on the back, you can drill a small hole next to it so that you can view the tumblers. After you align the tumblers , and determine the unlock code, you can seal the hole with a 2-part epoxy.

How to clear a lock?

Turn the dial at least three rotations clockwise first, just to make sure it is clear. Turn the lock's dial clockwise to zero.

How long does it take for Master Lock to process a lock?

Wait 4 to 6 weeks. Master Lock will process your request and send you your new combination.

How to find the serial number of a lock?

Photocopy your lock's serial number onto a piece of paper. The photocopy should show that your lock isn't attached to anything. Then, hand write the serial number beneath the picture of the lock.

How to pick a master lock?

Create a thin shim out of an aluminum can as an alternate method for picking a master lock. Cut a portion of the aluminum can off with a pair of scissors. Draw a teardrop shape on the aluminum that is about the same size and shape as a guitar pick. Use the scissors to cut out the homemade shim.

How to pick a master lock without breaking it?

There are numerous methods for successfully picking a master lock without breaking it. Open the bobby pin or paperclip to a 45-degree angle. Place the pin or paperclip into the left side of the top loop in the master lock. This is the portion of the lock that will open once the inside spring has been disengaged.

What does it mean to break a master lock?

Breaking a Master Lock means that you won’t be able to use it anymore, so you may want to try a few other options out first. There are no guarantees that these will work, but if they do, you may be able to keep the lock for future use.

Why do people use master locks?

Master locks are the most widely used padlock because they are opened with a combination instead of a key. Many people use them because remembering where a lock key is can be a challenge. However, master locks are highly effective until the individual cannot remember the code. There are numerous methods for successfully picking a master lock ...

How to get a lock out of a lock that is not a bolt cutter?

Apply upward pressure until the center metal piece breaks. Then stick the shim or screwdriver into the hole at the front of the lock, move it around and the metal piece should loosen and the lock should release.

How to open a master padlock without a key?

Try to move the shim in a circle from one end to the other. Stay calm if you don’t see movement. This is because it’s looking for the latch inside. Continue moving the shim until you hear a click indicating that you have successfully opened a master padlock without a key.

Why do you need to clamp the sides of the handles?

Since the cutters are set in a V shape, you need to clamp the sides of the handles so that they come together and form a straight line. That’s only the theory, therefore, you can stop the process when enough force is applied and the shackle breaks.

How to cut off a paperclip?

Use pliers to cut off one end of the paperclip where there is no circular crease.

Can you use two paperclips to open a master lock?

This is also a way of opening a master lock without a key where you don’t need to break your lock.

Do you grind pins?

Since that will be the side where the pins exist , you’ll need to grind until you see the pins and they fall out.

Can you open a classic lock?

There are many ways to open a classic lock because its security is not high. However, knowing the theory will not open the lock, you will also need to have lots of patience and practice. Having your master lock lost key is annoying, so when you successfully open the lock, equip yourself with methods to prevent the recurrence.