This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

The art of lockpicking dates back to ancient times, when primitive anti-theft knots were woven into rope. These knots were designed to either hamper potential thieves, or to detect a theft. The most famous of these was called a “Thief Knot”, which was most commonly used by sailors to detect if their belongings had been tampered with. Today, technology has provided us with a variety of quality locking mechanisms, all of which are designed to protect us from unwanted intrusions.

However, just as security measures have become more advanced, thieves are learning new anti-security methods. A lock picking tool that has recently received a lot of attention is the “Bump Key”, which is said to be able to open over 90% of locks. This tool is easy to make, easy to use, and can open a wide variety of locks in only a few seconds. However, many people aren’t familiar with how a bump key actually works. Once you understand the concept, you can be better prepared to protect your home against intruders.

What is a Bump Key?

A bump key is used in “lock bumping”, a method for opening locked doors. Bump keys are specially crafted, and will work on all locks of a particular type. A bump key is usually crafted from a common metal key, though with different grooves. The notches and grooves in a bump key are uniform, being of the same height. Though the design for bump keys was first patented in 1929 (by a locksmith called H.R. Simpson), it wasn’t until 2002-2003 that bump keys were recognized as a security problem. In 2005, a Dutch television show broadcast a special detailing “lock bumping”, which received widespread publicity.

A typical model for a bump key.

How Does a Bump Key Work?

Inside a lock, there are two distinct pieces to each lock pin. This makes up the “pin stack”. The part of the pin that touches the key is called the “key pin“, while the “driver pin” is attached to the spring that allows the pins to move. When a key is inserted into the lock, it pushes the key and driver pins up, until the small gap between the two pins aligns with the shear line. This allows the pins to separate, and the lock to turn.

A bump key is usually pushed into the lock one notch short of being fully inserted. Then, the key is forced into the lock by an impact force, which can be given with a hammer or screwdriver handle. This pushes the key the full length into the lock, and makes the driver pins “jump” (the key pins stay in place). When this is done in combination with a slight turning motion (rotational force), it can cause the driver pins to be caught above the shear line, which allows the lock to open.

Can a Bump Key Open All Locks?

Some estimates say that over 90% of door locks can be opened with the lock bumping method. However, some locks are more difficult (or impossible) to open with a bump key. Some locks have “security pins”, such as spool pins or mushroom pins, which make lock bumping slightly more difficult. A lock that uses a disc tumbler can’t be bumped, which is used in some higher security locks. .

News Special on “Lock Bumping”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Sources:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d6/Bumping_key.jpg

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

In action movies, a masked antagonist often sneaks up to a home by slowly creeping though the shadows. There’s the distant sound of a dog barking, and he freezes momentarily. After several seconds, he relaxes, and makes his way up to the door of a house. He pulls out two thin pieces of metal, inserts them into the high-security lock, and suddenly – click – the door opens. The thief slips inside, the camera following his movements.

However, it may be natural to wonder – is it really that simple? Is all that’s standing between your deadbolt and a burglary the skills of an experienced thief? For all your home security measures, is it really that easy for a thief to simply pick open your locks?

Misconceptions About Lock Picking

Contrary to what one might believe, lock picking isn’t reserved simply for criminals. A skilled locksmith must have an extensive knowledge of lock picking, which is often used for legal purposes. There are also some individuals who make a hobby out of picking “burglar-proof” or high security locks, which is a sport sometimes referred to as “Locksport“.

A warded lock, which is one of the earlier lock types. They are still used in areas of Europe.

The Basic Construction of a Lock

In order to understand why lock picking can be effective to open a lock, it’s first important to have a very basic understanding of how locks work. When you insert your key to open a door, the grooves on your key push up many tiny “pins” inside the lock. When the pins are in precise alignment (from being pushed by the key), the key is able to turn, and the door opens. While single-sided keys push up one set of pins, double-sided keys push two sets of pins (above and below), and four-sided keys push four sets of pins to their correct alignments. Today, the most common type of lock for many houses are the basic one-sided pin-tumbler locks. Other types of locks (such as lever locks, paracentric locks, tubular pin-tumbler locks, etc) are less common.

Lock Picking Tools

There are several different tools that are most commonly used for lock picking:

Classic Lock Picking Tools

• Torsion Wrench (Torque Wrench)
• Half-Diamond Pick
• Slagel Pick
• Decoder Pick
• Hook Pick
• Ball Pick
• Warded Pick
• Rake Picks
• Bump Keys

A Manual Lock Pick Gun.

Common Locksmith Tools

• Manual Pick Gun (Snap Gun)
• Electric Pick Gun

Lock Picking Methods

General Lock Picking
A simple pin-tumbler lock is fairly easy to pick, to someone with the right tools and a basic knowledge of locks. A tension wrench (or torque wrench) is applied inside the lock to provide leverage for the pick. The pick (which is often curved) is used to press upwards on the pins inside, until they are above the shear line. With the correct timing, it’s possible to click the pin into place by applying a circular force to the lock at the precise moment the pin is in the correct place. This process is repeated with the remaining pins, until the lock opens.

An illustration of general lock picking.

Warded Lock Picking
A warded lock is a special kind of lock that uses obstacles in order to prevent the lock from being picked. The obstructions inside the lock slot match grooves that are carved into the key, which is how the key is able to rotate inside the lock. Warded locks are actually a bit easier to pick than some other types of locks, since they can be bypassed with a warded pick (also called a skeleton key). Warded locks are actually one of the earliest types of locks, tracing their origins back to ancient China.

Reverse Picking
In reverse lock picking, the process is slightly different. First, all of the pins need to be set above the shear line. After this is accomplished, the torsion is gradually reduced until the lock is successfully picked. Reverse picking is most commonly used for locks that have anti-picking pins.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this article is designed only to give you a general understanding of how lock picking works. This information should never be used as a reference to participate in, instigate or otherwise attempt any illegal activities.

Sources:

http://www.theultimatelock.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/key3.PNG

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/PKXGUN-M.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9b/Warded_locked.png

http://www.coolest-gadgets.com/wp-images/lock_picking_set_full.jpg

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This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

By installing a deadbolt lock, you are taking an important step towards increasing your home’s level of security. However, when choosing a deadbolt lock, it’s best if you have some knowledge of the different types of deadbolts. Each of these types is functional for different security needs, so it’s important that you choose carefully.

Single Cylinder Deadbolt
A single cylinder deadbolt lock is the most common type of deadbolt. In this lock, there is an exterior cylinder entry point which is key-operated. The interior part of the cylinder can be locked or unlocked by operating a metal latch. This type of deadbolt is suitable for all types of doors, and meets the security needs of most homeowners.

Double Cylinder Deadbolt
Like a single cylinder deadbolt lock, a double cylinder deadbolt is also key operated. However, the difference is that the deadbolt must be locked and unlocked by using a key on both sides of the cylinder. This means that in order to lock or unlock the door from the inside, a key is required. This type of deadbolt is most commonly seen in doors that have glass windows.

Keyless Entry Deadbolt
In a keyless entry deadbolt lock, the lock can be opened without the use of a key. However, many of these locks also have an option to have a manual override of the lock with a key. Most keyless entry deadbolt locks are locked or unlocked by entering a code on a numeric keypad. However, there are some deadbolt locks that can be operated by use of a remote device. These locks work similar to remote-entry locks for vehicles, in that a transmitter sends out a signal to the lock to tell it to either lock or unlock. Sometimes, these devices also have an audio or visual signal that will allow you to know in advance if your door is still locked.

Which Type is Best?

Each of these three types of deadbolt locks are different, though choosing which one is best for you requires some research. In general, single cylinder deadbolt locks meet the security needs of most homeowners. If you purchase a high-quality deadbolt, you can effectively increase the level of security in your home.

Double cylinder deadbolt locks may seem like a more secure option, especially for doors with glass windows. Since a key is required to operate the lock, the door can not be opened by a thief that breaks the window. However, since a key is required to exit through the door, double cylinder deadbolts are not approved by many fire safety codes. Before installing a double cylinder deadbolt, it’s best if you first check with your building’s regulations.

Keyless entry deadbolt locks are designed more for their convenience. The remote entry locking and unlocking devices are becoming increasingly more popular. However, the main downfall of this type of deadbolt is that it usually is not waterproof. Many of these locks are battery operated, and may not function properly if exposed to excessive moisture. In addition to this, keyless entry deadbolt locks also tend to be more expensive. However, if you are attracted to the convenience of keyless entry, you may choose this type of deadbolt for

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In general, most doors in residential buildings are fitted with a spring-latch type of lock. This is also referred to as a “key-in-knob” lock, which operates with a key inserted directly into a lock in the doorknob. However, this type of lock makes your door an easy-access entry for burglars. A spring-latch lock can be easily tripped with credit card, which can be inserted in between the door and door frame to trip the spring.

To better protect your home, it is highly recommended that you install deadbolts. Since the bolt in deadbolts lock directly into the door frame, it is not easily bypassed by burglars. While installing deadbolts they will not, by themselves, make your home completely burglar-proof, but it can go a long way towards making your home more secure. Installing one can be easily accomplished in a short amount of time, provided that you have the proper tools.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 1 – Purchase the lock
There are many different types of deadbolts, though not all of them are the best option for your home’s security. Choose one with a high security rating, as well as one that meets the security suggestions outlined here. By using these tips, you will be able to avoid purchasing a low-quality lock.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 2 – Collect Your Tools
To properly install the lock, there are a few tools that you will need. The basic tools you will need are as follows:

• Electric Drill
• Hole Saws (Electric Drill Attachment)
• Tape Measure
• Chisel
• Flat or Phillip-Head Screwdriver (depending on the package)
• Hammer
• Pencil

Once you have collected all of these tools, you can open the lock package to begin installation. It should be noted that if you are installing the deadbolt in a steel-plated door, you need to ensure that the hole saws that you will be using are able to cut through steel.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 3 – Use Your Template
Most commercial deadbolts come with a cardboard or paper template that you can use to decide where on your door you need to drill. Place or tape the template over your door, and trace the outline of it (by poking through the paper or cardboard) with a pencil.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 4 – Adjust your Hole Saw
Using the guidelines on your template, adjust the diameter of your hole saw so that it matches the template. Drill a hole through your door where the template has marked. This circular hole will be where you will install the cylinder portion of the deadbolt.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 5 – Drill the Latch Hole
Also using the template, drill a hole that goes through the edge of your door to meet the hole you drilled with the hole saw. This will be the hole for the bolt on the lock.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 6 – Measure the Latch Bolt
Install the latch bolt temporarily, since you will be removing it to chisel the area for the latch bolt plate. Mark the center edge of the latch bolt, so that you can see it when you close the door. After closing the door, mark the doorjamb in the exact area where you made the latch bolt markings. This allows you to have an accurate measurement to use when installing the strike plate.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 7 – Install the Latch Bolt
Mark the area where you installed the plate for your bolt with a pencil. Remove the temporarily installed bolt, using the hammer and chisel to hollow out a shallow depression where you will be installing the latch bolt plate. After this depression is finished, screw the latch bolt plate in, ensuring that its edge is exactly in line with the edge of the door.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 8 – Install the Strike Plate
Using the pencil marks that you made on the door jamb, drill the central hole that will be where the latch bolt slides into the door. Ensure that the hole is free of wood chips, and then install the strike plate directly over the hole.

Installing a Deadbolt Step 9 – You’re Done!
Test the door to ensure that you have installed the bolt and the strike plate in proper alignment.

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While installing a deadbolt lock can be a great way to help increase the security of your home, not all deadbolts are created equally. Inferior design, low-quality materials and other defects can directly affect the effectiveness of deadbolts. Considering the many options that are available, choosing the right type of lock for your home can seem like an intimidating task. However, with the right information, it is possible to greatly improve your chances of purchasing a high-quality lock.

Lock-Picking Vulnerability
Though picking a deadbolt lock can be time-consuming, there are many skilled burglars that have this skill. In order to help prevent your lock from being picked, it’s best if you choose one with a high-security cylinder. High-security locks often have special pins, which can not be picked with standard lockpicking tools. Though a bit more expensive, it’s always best to opt for the high-security option when choosing a deadbolt lock.

Check the Length of the Bolt
If deadbolts have a bolt that is fairly short, the door can be easily opened with the use of a crowbar or other prying tool. To prevent this, choose a deadbolt lock that has at least a one-inch extension into the doorframe. Though this may make installation of the deadbolt a bit more time-consuming, it’s an effective method to help increase the security of your home.

Evaluate the Material
One way that deadbolts can be vulnerable to burglars is if they are made of specific materials. A lock made of a relatively soft metal, such as brass, will be able to be sawed through with a minimal amount of effort. Many burglars have adapted to use tools such as hacksaws to infiltrate low-quality deadbolt locks. To prevent this, it’s best if you choose a lock that has a bolt constructed of steel.

Cylinder Guards
In some types of deadbolts, the cylinder guard (the circular metal part where you insert your key) can be infiltrated by being forcibly removed with a wrench. If you purchase one with a tapered cylinder, it will not be able to be easily removed with this method. For additional security, you may also choose to go with a “free-spinning” Cylinder, which is also much harder to remove with a wrench.

A Note About Price
Considering that there are some advanced security deadbolts that can cost upwards of $200, you may want to set a budget limit for your deadbolt lock. However, as with all home security purchases, you often have to make sacrifices in quality for a lower priced deadbolt lock. Since a lock is such an important part of your home’s level of security, it should be a purchase that you carefully consider. While it may not seem practical to spent a large amount of money on a lock, it’s best if you first evaluate your specific security needs. If you feel comfortable making a small compromise with the quality of your lock, you may opt to purchase a lower-cost deadbolt. However, if you follow the tips outlined above, you stand a much better chance of being able to increase the safety and security of your home.

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