How To Drill Out Lock | joanieclothing.com

In the realm of home security, the ability to drill out a lock can be an invaluable skill. Whether you’ve lost your keys, experienced a break-in, or simply need to gain access to a locked room, this intricate process can provide a solution. Drilling out a lock requires a combination of precision, mechanical knowledge, and the right tools. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of this delicate operation, empowering you with the necessary expertise to drill out a lock effectively and safely, restoring access to your belongings.

Before embarking on this endeavor, it is crucial to assess the situation thoroughly. Determine the type of lock you’re dealing with, as different locks have varying levels of complexity and security features. Gather the necessary tools, including a drill, drill bits, safety glasses, and a center punch. Identify the correct drill bit size for your lock; it should be slightly larger than the lock’s pins. Safety is paramount, so wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and earplugs. Once prepared, proceed with caution, following the steps outlined in the subsequent paragraphs to successfully drill out the lock.

The process of drilling out a lock hinges on disrupting the lock’s internal mechanism. By drilling into the lock cylinder, you aim to disable the pins that prevent the lock from being opened. Insert the appropriate drill bit into the drill and secure it tightly. Position the drill perpendicular to the lock cylinder, ensuring a straight and precise hole. Apply gentle pressure and start drilling slowly, avoiding excessive force that could damage the lock or drill bit. Drill to a depth of approximately 1/4 inch, then remove the drill bit and insert a smaller drill bit. Repeat the drilling process until you reach the back of the lock cylinder. Once complete, carefully insert a screwdriver or other suitable tool into the drilled hole to push the lock pins out of the way and unlock the mechanism.

Assemble the Necessary Tools

To prepare for the task of drilling out a lock, you will need to gather a selection of essential tools. These include:

Essential Tools:

Tool	Description
Electric drill	A handheld power tool that rotates a drill bit at high speeds
Drill bits	Metal-specific drill bits designed to penetrate hard materials like locks
Safety glasses	Protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries from flying debris
Center punch	A tool used to create a small indentation in the lock cylinder for precise drilling
Hammer	Required to strike the center punch and initiate the indentation process
Lubricant	Oil or penetrating fluid to facilitate drilling and reduce friction
Crowbar (optional)	A tool that can be used to apply leverage and break open the lock

Once you have assembled these tools, you can proceed with the steps involved in drilling out the lock.

Position the Drill and Drill Bit

Before drilling, it’s crucial to ensure proper positioning of your drill and drill bit. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Remove the Lock Cylinder

Insert your key into the lock and turn it to the unlocked position. Using a screwdriver or drill, remove the screws that hold the lock cylinder in place. Once the screws are removed, pull the cylinder out of the lock.

2. Identify and Center the Drill Point

Locate the keyhole on the lock body. This is where you’ll drill the hole to remove the lock’s core. Use a center punch to mark the exact center of the hole. If you have a drill press, use its center finder to ensure precision.

Lock Type	Drill Bit Size
Standard Deadbolt	1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
Rim Cylinder Lock	3/16 inch (4.8 mm)
Mortise Lock	1/4 inch (6.4 mm)

3. Secure the Lock in a Vise

To prevent the lock from moving while drilling, securely clamp it in a vise. Adjust the vise’s jaws to hold the lock body firmly without damaging it.

Start Drilling Carefully

Once you have access to the cylinder, it’s time to start drilling. This is a delicate step, so proceed with caution. Use a 1/16-inch drill bit and start drilling slowly and carefully. The drill should be perpendicular to the cylinder face. Once you start drilling, apply light pressure and let the drill do the work. Don’t force the drill or you could damage the cylinder or your drill bit.

As you drill, keep checking your progress. Once you have drilled through the cylinder face, you should be able to see the tumblers inside. If you don’t see the tumblers, continue drilling until you do. Once you can see the tumblers, it’s time to move on to the next step.

Drilling the Pin Stack

The pin stack is the part of the lock that holds the tumblers in place. To drill out the pin stack, you will need to use a larger drill bit. A 3/16-inch drill bit is typically used for this step. Once you have the larger drill bit, carefully insert it into the hole you drilled in the cylinder face. Again, be sure to drill perpendicular to the cylinder face and apply light pressure.

Drill until you feel the drill bit hit the pin stack. Once you feel the drill bit hit the pin stack, continue drilling slowly and carefully. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or you could damage the pin stack or your drill bit.

Drill until you can see the pins fall out of the lock. Once all of the pins have fallen out, you can remove the cylinder from the lock body and replace it with a new one.

Rotate the Drill Bit Regularly

To avoid jamming and overheating the drill bit, rotate it regularly. This will help to clear away metal shavings and prevent the bit from getting stuck. Here’s a step-by-step guide to rotating the drill bit:

1. **Use a cordless drill.** Corded drills can be more difficult to control, and they may not provide enough power to drill through the lock cylinder.

Choose the right drill bit. The drill bit should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the lock cylinder. This will help to prevent the bit from binding.
Start drilling slowly. Gradually increase the speed of the drill as you drill through the lock cylinder.
Rotate the drill bit regularly. Every few seconds, stop drilling and rotate the drill bit counterclockwise. This will help to clear away metal shavings and prevent the bit from getting stuck.

Steps to Rotate the Drill Bit Regularly	Notes
1. Stop drilling and rotate the drill bit counterclockwise.	This will help to clear away metal shavings.
2. Drill for a few more seconds.	Do not drill for too long, as this can cause the drill bit to overheat.
3. Repeat steps 1-2 until the drill bit has drilled through the lock cylinder.	Once the drill bit has drilled through the lock cylinder, you will be able to remove the lock.

Once the drill bit has drilled through the lock cylinder, you can remove the lock. To do this, insert a screwdriver into the lock cylinder and turn it counterclockwise. The lock should then come out of the door.

Avoid Overheating

When drilling out a lock, it’s essential to avoid overheating the drill bit. Excessive heat can damage the bit and make it less effective. Here are some tips to prevent overheating:

Use a sharp drill bit. A dull bit will produce more friction, which generates heat.
Drill slowly and apply moderate pressure. Don’t force the drill, as this will create unnecessary friction and heat.
Use a lubricant. Applying a lubricant, such as cutting oil or WD-40, to the drill bit and the lock will help reduce friction and heat.
Take breaks. Drilling for extended periods can cause the drill bit and the lock to overheat. If you notice the bit or lock getting hot, stop drilling and let it cool down before continuing.
Use a coolant. If you’re drilling a particularly difficult lock, consider using a coolant, such as water or compressed air, to keep the drill bit and the lock cool.

Cause of Overheating	Solution
Dull drill bit	Replace with a sharp bit
Excessive pressure	Drill slowly and apply moderate pressure
Lack of lubrication	Apply a lubricant to the drill bit and the lock
Prolonged drilling	Take breaks to allow the drill bit and the lock to cool down
Difficult lock	Use a coolant to keep the drill bit and the lock cool

Remove the Broken Key or Lock

If the key is broken inside the lock, you’ll need to remove it before you can drill it out. Here’s how to do it:

Insert a thin object, such as a straightened paperclip, into the keyhole and try to hook the broken key fragment.
Pull the fragment out of the lock.
If you cannot remove the broken key fragment with a paperclip, you can try using a pair of tweezers.
If you still cannot remove the broken key fragment, you can try using a drill to drill it out. Be careful not to damage the lock when drilling.
Once you have removed the broken key fragment, you can proceed to drill out the lock.
Drill a small hole in the center of the lock cylinder.
- Use a 1/16-inch drill bit for a standard lock.
- Use a 3/32-inch drill bit for a heavy-duty lock.
- Drill slowly and carefully, applying gentle pressure to avoid breaking the drill bit.
- Drill until you reach the shear line, which is the point where the pins separate the plug from the cylinder.
Insert a small screwdriver or pick into the hole and rotate it to break the shear line.

Pull the plug out of the cylinder and remove the lock.

Clean and Lubricate the Mechanism

To effectively clean and lubricate the lock mechanism, follow these meticulous steps:

1. Gather Necessary Materials:

– Soft cloth
– Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher)
– Graphite powder or lock lubricant

2. Remove Dirt and Debris:

– Using a soft cloth, gently wipe away any visible dirt or debris from the lock cylinder and surrounding area.

3. Apply Isopropyl Alcohol:

– Dip a cotton swab or cloth into isopropyl alcohol and carefully apply it to the lock cylinder and key pins. This will help dissolve any dirt, grime, or corrosion.

4. Allow Alcohol to Dry:

– Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely before proceeding to the next step.

5. Lubricate the Pins:

– Apply a small amount of graphite powder or lock lubricant to the key pins using a toothpick or a cotton swab. Ensure that the lubricant reaches the bottom of the cylinder.

6. Insert and Turn the Key:

– Insert the key into the lock and turn it gently back and forth several times. This will help distribute the lubricant and free up any stuck pins.

7. Repeat Steps 3-6:

– Repeat steps 3-6 multiple times until the lock operates smoothly. This may require several cycles of cleaning and lubricating, especially if the lock has not been maintained for a long time.

Reinstall the Lock or Replace the Cylinder

Step 1: Remove the Door Lock Trim

Unscrew the screws holding the door lock trim in place. Carefully pull off the trim to reveal the lock cylinder.

Step 2: Remove the Lock Cylinder

Locate the screw holding the lock cylinder in place. Unscrew and remove the screw, then pull out the lock cylinder. Twist the cylinder to remove it completely.

Step 3: Clean the Lock Cylinder

Use a cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris from the lock cylinder. This will help ensure the new cylinder operates smoothly.

Step 4: Insert the New Cylinder

Slide the new lock cylinder into the hole. Twist the cylinder to engage the catch. Tighten the screw to secure the cylinder.

Step 5: Reinstall the Door Lock Trim

Place the door lock trim back over the cylinder. Align the screw holes and tighten the screws to secure the trim.

Step 6: Test the Lock

Insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lock should operate smoothly and open the door.

Step 7: Reinstall the Lock Cylinder

If you are replacing the cylinder but keeping the old lock, insert the new cylinder into the lock housing. Tighten the screw to secure it.

Step 8: Check the Operation and Adjust as Needed

Insert the key into the lock and turn it. The lock should operate smoothly and open the door. If necessary, adjust the strike plate or door latch to ensure the door closes and latches securely.

Tool	Function
Drill	Drill out the lock cylinder
Lock cylinder replacement kit	New lock cylinder, screws, strike plate
Screwdriver	Remove and tighten screws
Cloth or brush	Clean the lock cylinder
Punch	Align the door latch strike plate

Test the New Lock

Once the lock is replaced, it’s crucial to test its functionality thoroughly to ensure it operates smoothly and securely. Follow these steps for effective testing:

**Insert the Key:** Insert the key into the new lock and rotate it in both directions. The key should turn smoothly without any resistance or sticking.

**Try Multiple Locks:** If you have multiple locks on the same door, test each one individually. Verify that each lock functions independently and does not interfere with the others.

**Open and Close the Door:** Open and close the door multiple times to ensure that the lock engages and releases properly. The door should open and close easily, without binding or jamming.

**Test with Different Keys:** If you have copies of the key, test them in the new lock. They should all operate the lock without any issues, indicating that the keying is correct.

**Check for Security:** Ensure that the lock provides adequate security by attempting to pick or bypass it. If the lock can be easily defeated, consider installing a more secure option.

**Use the Deadbolt:** If the lock has a deadbolt, test it by locking the deadbolt and trying to open the door. The deadbolt should prevent the door from opening when engaged.

**Lubricate the Lock:** After testing, apply a small amount of lubricant to the keyhole and moving parts of the lock. This will help ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.

**Call a Professional:** If you encounter any issues during the testing process, do not hesitate to call a licensed locksmith. They can assess the situation and provide expert advice or repairs.

Test	Description
Insert Key	Ensures smooth key insertion and rotation.
Try Multiple Locks	Verifies independent operation of multiple locks.
Open and Close Door	Tests lock engagement and release during door operation.
Test with Different Keys	Confirms correct keying and compatibility.
Check for Security	Evaluates the lock’s resistance to unauthorized entry.
Use the Deadbolt	Verifies the deadbolt’s effectiveness in preventing door opening.
Lubricate the Lock	Ensures smooth operation and prevents wear.
Call a Professional	Seek expert assistance for any encountered issues.

Safety Precautions

1. Protect Yourself

Wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from metal chips and sawdust. Gloves will protect your hands from sharp edges and blisters. A dust mask will prevent you from inhaling harmful dust particles.

2. Secure the Door

Place a wedge or something similar under the door to keep it from closing suddenly and pinching your hand or drill bit.

3. Choose a Safe Workspace

Drill in an open area with good ventilation. Avoid enclosed spaces where dust and fumes can accumulate.

4. Check for Electrical Hazards

Before drilling, make sure that the wires leading to the lock are not live. Use a voltage tester to check for electricity.

5. Use the Correct Drill Bit and Speed

Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the lock mechanism. Drill at a slow speed to avoid overheating the drill bit and damaging the lock.

6. Start Slowly

Begin drilling at the edge of the lock and gradually work your way towards the center. This will help prevent the drill bit from slipping and causing damage.

7. Use a Lubricant

Apply a drop of oil or lubricant to the drill bit to reduce friction and prevent the bit from binding inside the lock.

8. Keep the Drill Clean

Periodically clean the drill bit and remove any metal chips or sawdust that may accumulate.

9. Take Breaks

Don’t drill continuously for long periods. Take short breaks to allow the drill bit to cool down and prevent it from overheating.

10. Protect Surrounding Surfaces

Cover nearby surfaces and furniture with a drop cloth or plastic to protect them from metal chips and sawdust. Tape down the drop cloth securely to prevent it from slipping and exposing surfaces to damage.

How to Drill Out a Lock

Drilling out a lock is a relatively simple process, but it requires some basic tools and materials.

Gather your tools and materials. You will need a cordless drill, a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the lock cylinder, a hammer, a center punch, and a pair of safety glasses.
Put on your safety glasses.
Position the lock in a vise or clamp it to a sturdy surface. Make sure that the lock is held securely so that it will not move while you are drilling.
Use the center punch to mark the center of the lock cylinder.
Drill a hole into the center of the lock cylinder using the drill bit. Drill slowly and carefully, and be sure to keep the drill bit straight. The hole should be deep enough to reach the tumblers inside the lock.
Use the hammer to knock the lock cylinder out of the lock body.
Remove the old lock cylinder and insert a new one.