How To Choose A Lock For An Internal Door?

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to pick a keyed entrance doorknob using various tools and methods. Keyed doors can be opened using bobby pins, genuine lockpicks, or a tension wrench. Privacy doorknobs can be opened using a straightened paper clip by inserting the clip into the knob’s pinhole. Credit cards can also be used to open locked doorknobs by swiping the card to push back the door’s latch.

To pick a privacy lock using household items, you will need a long, thin object like a hairpin, heavy-duty paperclip, or a small screwdriver. Kwikset (K1) doorknobs are a good brand to practice on due to their reputation for lockpicking.

The most basic lock picking set includes a tension wrench, which is used to apply pressure to the locking mechanism. If the doorknob is a simple push-button affair, a paperclip can be used to push on the locking mechanism. If the doorknob has a slit on the outside handle, a butter knife should do the trick. Keyed locks are a bit trickier to open.

To open a locked door, bend one hairpin into an “L” shape and remove the plastic end pieces. Use your hands to bend a bobby pin open until the ends are ninety degrees. If you have no key, use the point end of a pair of thin scissors or a small knife to insert the end and twist around back and forth.

To disable the lock, take the knob off and remove or modify the little metal piece that engages the lock. To unlock, simply look for a small hole located on the outside of the lock, usually in the center of the door handle.