Combination locks are commonly used in school lockers, gym lockers, on bicycles, or just about anything you want to secure. Once you know the combination, opening this lock is very easy. It's enough to slide a few times, and in an instant the lock will open. This article will explain the steps to follow to open your own combination lock.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using a New Combination Padlock
Step 1. Find the combination code
If the padlock was recently purchased, you should be able to find a sticker with the combination code on the back of the padlock or on a separate piece of paper that came with the padlock.
- Very few locks don't have a predefined combination code, and you'll have to create a new combination code yourself.
- Even if you don't want to use the previous combination code for a long time (assuming it can be reset), it's not a bad idea to use it for some time. You can always put the code in your wallet, purse, or other safe place.
Step 2. Reset the combination code (if you can)
Most combination locks can be reset to any number you choose. However, this code can usually only be reset in the open position -- so if you forget the combination code while it's still closed, you can't reset the code.
Some padlocks, have a "reset button" that must be pressed to enter a new combination code. While in the unlocked position, use the reset device provided by the padlock (or, instead, a needle or safety pin) to press the reset button
Step 3. Remember your new combination code
You certainly don't want to go through the combination code log every time you want to open it, do you? This should be taken into account when resetting a combination code -- ideally it should be easy for you to remember.
Method 2 of 3: Unlocking Single Combination Lock
Step 1. Turn the lock button clockwise three times
The single combination lock has a complicated mechanism that will only open in a certain way. Turning it three times will free the lock and neutralize it so it's ready to open.
Step 2. Stop spinning when the marker points to the first number in the combination
The marker or line should be above the dial, pointing to the twelve o'clock position. In most cases, this section will have a red or other color.
Step 3. Turn the knob counterclockwise one full turn
Turn until past the first number, also past the second number.
Step 4. Stop spinning on the second number of your combination
Step 5. Turn the dial clockwise again until you find the third number
This time you don't have to spin it a full spin, stop when you find the third number in the combination.
Step 6. Open the lock
Pull up on the shackle above the padlock, and the padlock will open right away. You can also hold the shackle and pull the lock down. Be careful not to touch the combination dial.
If the lock doesn't open, repeat the process from the beginning. Since you may have partially locked it, you will need to free the lock before trying again
Method 3 of 3: Unlocking Double Combination Lock
Step 1. Understand how a double combination lock works
The dual combination lock, by comparison, is a simple device. These locks usually use a single key consisting of several latches (which correspond to each number). The lock can only be opened if there is nothing to tie the latch on. Each number has one section that the hook can pass through without a hitch, and the lock will open when the correct combination is entered.
Unlike single combination locks, double combination locks do not have to be reset and there is no special way of turning clockwise or anticlockwise to do so
Step 2. Dial each number screen and enter the combination code
You can turn it in any direction (although some locks are usually limited to only turning in one direction).
- Most double combination locks use three to five numbers.
- Some double combination locks use letters as codes instead of numbers. This can make it very memorable.
Step 3. Pull the lock until it unlocks
There shouldn't be anything standing in your way (unlike a single combination padlock). If something is holding you back, make sure once again that you have entered the correct code.
Tips
- Adding pressure to the shackle (the U-shaped part that holds the object you want to lock) will add friction to the lock's mechanical system. Do not touch this part to open the padlock smoothly.
- In many single combination locks, you don't have to touch the numbers exactly, but it can be somewhere between two numbers.
