How to Open a Locked Door with a Screwdriver

It’s an unfortunate situation to be in – being locked out of your home or room with no key in sight. Sometimes, even having a key fails us, and the lock refuses to budge. However, it’s possible that the solution could be simpler than we think. Have you ever tried using a screwdriver to pick a lock? In this post, we will cover how to use a screwdriver to open a locked door in five easy steps.

Before we dive into the details, let’s understand the purpose of this method and its legal implications.

Before we begin, it’s important to note that lockpicking is illegal in some places and should only be performed on locks that belong to you. That said, using a screwdriver to gain entry is a non-destructive method that doesn’t cause any harm to the lock, making it a preferred alternative to drilling or smashing in the door. Here’s how you can pick a locked door with a screwdriver.

Step 1: Choose the Right Screwdriver

To get started, select a small screwdriver with a flat head, preferably around two inches long. It should be thin enough to slide into the keyhole without any force.

Step 2: Insert the Screwdriver

Insert the screwdriver into the keyhole and push it up and down, trying to find the pins inside. The aim is to lift each pin to the point where it no longer obstructs the turning of the lock. You’ll feel resistance from the pins, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to differentiate between them.

Step 3: Lift the Pins

Using very gentle pressure, begin lifting the pins in an upward motion until you feel them click into place. Once all the pins are in their open position, the lock will turn very easily. Be patient with this step; it may take a few tries to get the timing and pressure right.

Step 4: Turn the Lock

Once all the pins are in the open position, turn the screwdriver gently. In most cases, this should be enough to release the lock and open the door. Don’t rush into it; if the lock doesn’t turn on the first attempt, try again.

Step 5: Success

You’ve successfully picked your first lock with a screwdriver! Give yourself a pat on the back and enter your home or room.

Conclusion

Knowing how to use a screwdriver to open a locked door is a useful life skill that could come in handy in various scenarios. Remember that non-destructive methods like this should only be considered on locks that belong to you. Picking someone else’s lock is illegal and immoral. However, in case of an emergency or your misplaced keys, this method of using a screwdriver to pick a lock can be just what you need to save yourself time and money while staying out of legal trouble.

With a little patience and practice, anyone can learn this technique to open a locked door.