Most of us have experienced breaking a key in the lock. Ultimately, panic is the first response, followed by sadness, anger, or laughter; maybe a combination of all three. In any case there is no need for any of it, despite the inconvenience of the situation. Simply take a deep breath and relax. Texan Lock and Key would like to relate several methods that can extract the broken key from the lock. For starters, there a few techniques that can be used by most people, providing you have access to the tools of course.
How to Get a Broken Key Out of a Door Lock
Common methods for removing broken off keys from the lock include the following:
– Drilling (only as a last resort)
– Key Extractor Tool
– Mini Saw Blade
– Probe and Pull
– Pushing the Key
– Scissors (2 methods)
– Super Glue
– Tapping the Lock
– Tweezers
Where we can write volumes on the different techniques, we have selected a few methods to expound on how to get the broken key out of the lock.
Extracting a Broken Key from a Lock
1) Key Extractor Tool. Because breaking the key in the lock is a common occurrence, a specially designed tool accessible online or in most hardware stores are readily available at a low cost. The extractor slides in the keyway that engages the lock. Once in place, simply twist slightly and pull. The small hook at the end will catch the key’s teeth and pulls it free. This method may take a few attempts to make an adequate connection with the broken segment, but once you have hold, popping it out is easy.
2) Tapping the Lock. Extra tools may not be needed, if the key has broken in a padlock or a lock that features a removable cylinder, can free the broken off key. Simply firmly grasp the lock and tap it with force against a hard surfaced edge, ensuring the keyhole is not blocked, and after a few tries should get the broken key expelled.
3) Scissor Blade Hack. Scissors are not always ideal, but it can be effective and sometimes that’s the only available tool to help effectively free the broken key. If you have multiple types of scissors in your reach, blades that are small and thin will be more efficient. There are two ways that scissors can be used.
Scissor method 1 requires open scissors that are held near the screw, using one blade slide it in next to the key and with applied pressure you can slowly pull the key outward. This method takes time, patience, and repetitive motions.
Scissor method 2 is more useful if there is a slight protrusion of the key at the edge of the keyhole. With the scissors slightly open, fit the two tips at the top and bottom, clamp down and using a gentle-slow motion, pull the key out of the lock. It may take a few tries, but once they key is out far enough, you can pinch it with your fingers and continue to pull it out.
4) Tweezers. Tweezers are another useful aid that many people have on hand, although using tweezers can make the situation worse if not careful. Tweezers should be thin enough to slip into the keyway alongside your key. If they are too thick, they are only handy of the key is slightly protruding, allowing you to grip the end and pulling it out.
Professional Locksmith Services in KILLEEN, AUSTIN, SAN ANTONIO, ROUND ROCK, SAN MARCOS, FRISCO, NEW BRAUNFELS & HOUSTON TEXAS
With the many different methods available, the most efficient (and well worth the investment to save time) is contacting a professional from Texan Lock and Key. Our specialists have the training, experience, skills, and optimal tools to make removing the key easy and can create a duplicate key. Call us today to get started!
