There is nothing more frustrating than being locked out of your storage unit. But with a few simple tools, you can easily break the lock and get back inside. In this article, we will show you how to break a storage cylinder lock. So whether you’re dealing with a broken or lost key or want to be prepared in case of an emergency, follow these easy steps to break into your storage unit.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of lock used on storage units. And while they are not the most secure type of lock, they can still be challenging to break. But with a little bit of effort, you can quickly get past this type of lock.
Why Would You Break a Storage Cylinder Lock?
Many people may ask themselves why they need to break a storage cylinder lock. After all, it’s not like they will go around breaking into people’s homes or businesses. However, there are times when breaking a storage cylinder lock may be the best solution.
You may need to break a storage cylinder lock if you have lost the key. If you have lost the key, there is no way to get into the storage unit without breaking the lock. This can be a big problem if you need to get into the unit quickly.
Another reason you may need to break a storage cylinder lock is if the lock has been damaged. If the lock has been damaged, it will not work correctly, and you will not be able to get into the storage unit.
Finally, you may need to break a storage cylinder lock if you do not have a key. This can be the case if you are moving and do not want to take the time to get the key from the previous owner of the storage unit.
If you find yourself in one of these situations, it is essential to know how to break a storage cylinder lock. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common way is by using a crowbar.
A Detailed Guide on How to Break a Storage Cylinder Lock
Method 1: Use a Hammer
Things You’ll Need:
- Hammer
- Flat head screwdriver
- Safety glasses
This is the most common way to break into a storage cylinder lock. It’s simple and easy to do, but it can be dangerous if you’re not careful. You’ll need a hammer and a flat head screwdriver to do this method. First, put on your safety glasses. Then, place the screwdriver in the lock and hit it with the hammer. You should be able to hear the screwdriver moving around inside the lock. Keep hitting it until the screwdriver pops out of the lock. Then, turn the key to unlock the door.
Method 2: Use a Crowbar
Things You’ll Need:
- Crowbar
- WD-40 or another lubricant
If the lock doesn’t give, add some WD-40 or another lubricant to the keyhole and try again. Sometimes you need to twist the crowbar to apply more force and break the lock. Once you’ve applied enough force, the lock should pop open. If it doesn’t, keep trying until it does.
Method 3: Use a Pry Bar
Things You’ll Need:
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- Safety glasses
If the storage cylinder lock has a manual keyhole, you can try to pry it open with a pry bar. Place the pry bar between the door and the frame of the storage unit and apply pressure until the lock pops open. Be careful not to damage the door or frame while doing this. You can also use a hammer to break the lock open. Again, be careful not to damage anything else in the process. When breaking into something, always wear safety glasses, as there is always a chance of flying debris.
Method 4: Cutting the Cylinder Lock
Things You’ll Need:
- Cutting tool
- Cylinder lock
In some cases, the only way to get into a storage locker is by cutting the cylinder lock. This can be done with a hacksaw, bolt cutter, or another tool. Make sure to cut the lock off so that the key can still be used to open the locker. Be very careful when using a cutting tool around locks, as it’s easy to damage the lock or even cut yourself. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when working with locks.
Method 5: Using a Drill
Things You’ll Need:
- Drill
- Drill bit (equal to the diameter of the lock cylinder)
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Wedge
Drill into the lock cylinder with a drill bit that is the same size as the diameter of the lock cylinder. Drill until you hit the metal casing on the backside of the lock.
Use a hammer to hit the chisel into the drilled hole. Strike it gently at first, then increase the force as needed until the chisel pops through the backside of the lock.
Wedge the end of a piece of wood or metal into the newly created opening to keep it open.
Insert your key into the opening and turn it to unlock the storage container.
Method 6: Using a Bottle Jack
Things You’ll Need:
- Bottle Jack
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Hammer
Place the bottle jack over the lock cylinder. It should be sitting on top of the metal casing surrounding the lock. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the top of the bottle jack in place. Remove the top. Insert the wrench into the opening at the top of the bottle jack. Turn it to loosen the compression spring inside.
Once the compression spring is loose, use pliers to remove it from inside the bottle jack. Next, use a hammer to hit the end of the bottle jack until the lock cylinder pops out. If the lock cylinder doesn’t come out, hit it again until it does.
Once the lock cylinder is out, replace it with a new one. Put the top back on the bottle jack and screw it in place. Use the wrench to tighten the compression spring. Replace the bottle jack over the lock cylinder and use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold it in place. Turn the wrench a few times to ensure the compression spring is tight. Test the lock to make sure it works properly.
Method 7: Using a Jackhammer
Things You’ll Need:
- Jackhammer
- Chisel
- Wedge
If the lock on your storage cylinder is stubborn, you may need to break it using a jackhammer. This is a more extreme option and should only be used as a last resort. First, use a chisel to break off the end of the cylinder. Then, wedge the end of the jackhammer between the door and the cylinder and hit it with a hammer. The force of the jackhammer will break the lock. Be careful not to damage the door or the rest of the cylinder.
Tips
- Always be aware of your surroundings, and make sure you are in a safe place before attempting to break a storage cylinder lock.
- If possible, have a second person assist you with the break. This will help ensure your safety and provide additional support.
- Use a strong tool to break the lock. A hammer or crowbar are good options.
- Strike the lock forcefully at its weakest point. This is typically the center of the lock.
- -Be patient and take your time. Breaking a storage cylinder lock can be difficult, but it is doable. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way!
Can a Locksmith Open a Lock Without Breaking It?
There are a few ways to open a lock without breaking it, one of which is using a locksmith. A locksmith can use specialized tools to open a lock without damaging it. If you don’t have access to a locksmith, there are other methods you can try. One way is to use a bump key.
A bump key is a special type of key designed to open locks without needing the original key. Instead, please insert it into the lock and give it a sharp tap with a hammer to use a bump key. This will cause the pins inside the lock to jump up, allowing you to unlock the door.
You can also try using a credit card or a piece of plastic wrap. Insert the credit card or plastic wrap into the lock and twist it until the door pops open. Of course, if all else fails, you can always try to break the lock. However, this will likely damage the lock or door.
How to Pick a Storage Cylinder Lock?
To pick a storage cylinder lock, you’ll need a tension wrench and a pick. Insert the wrench into the bottom of the keyhole and apply slight pressure in the direction you would turn the key. Use the pick to push the pins in the lock upward until they click into place. Once all pins are set, the lock will turn. Practice on an old lock before attempting to pick a lock in use.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Locks Cut?
If you find yourself locked out of your storage unit, the first step is to determine the cost of having the locks cut. Most storage facilities will have a designated locksmith who can handle this for you. The cost of having a locksmith cut the lock will vary depending on the type of lock and the location of the storage facility. Generally, the cost ranges from $50 to $100.
If you cannot afford to have the locks cut, there are a few ways you can try to break into the unit. However, these methods should only be used as a last resort, as they can damage the lock or door. A rubber band or hairpin can be inserted into the keyhole and twisted until the lock breaks. You can also use a screwdriver or chisel to try and pry the door open. Be careful not to damage the contents of the unit in the process.
You can check it out to Cut a Master Lock with Bolt Cutters
Conclusion:
Now that you know how to break a storage cylinder lock, it is essential to remember that this is not a recommended method for opening your lock. If you are locked out of your storage unit, please call a professional locksmith to help you get back into your belongings. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to break into your storage unit, hopefully, this article has given you the information you need to do so safely and effectively. Thanks for reading!
