Locked out can happen to anyone. Maybe your lock rusted shut, or youve lost your keys. You might have just bought a storage locker from an auction and need to remove the old lock.
However, it is not difficult to know how to remove a lock. Today we will discuss a variety of ways to do this job quickly and efficiently.
What You’ll Need
You have many tools that you can use to accomplish your task. You probably already have at least one of the tools mentioned above. Keep using what you already have. Any of the following tools can be used to remove a lock:
- Bolt cutters
- Angle Grinder with cutoff wheel
- Dremel with cutoff wheel
- Plasma cutter or cutting torch
- Hacksaw & propane torch
You don’t need any of the above tools. All you need is safety equipment to protect against metal shavings and sparks.
- Safety goggles
Using Bolt Cutters
Bolt cutters are a popular and effective way to cut through locks. Bolt cutters are essentially a pair of scissors with a fulcrum joint. This allows them to transfer more power to their blades, making it possible to cut through thicker metals.
Long-handled bolt cutters provide greater leverage and are easier to use for cutting through thicker, more difficult metals. Bolt cutters with shorter handles might not be able cut through heavy-duty locks. You don’t need a pair of heavy-duty bolt cutters? No problem! We have other options.
Use An Angle Grinder
A metal cutoff wheel and angle grinder can be used to quickly remove locks.
As you will be working with metal sparks and shavings, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Earplugs may be an option.
The angle grinder should be held so that the blade is parallel to the lock. Next, begin slowly and carefully cutting. Do not apply too much pressure. The tool will do the rest.
After you have cut through the lock’s side, you should no longer need to use it. If this is not possible, you can also cut the lock’s other side.
Use A Dremel
The same principle applies to a Dremel equipped with a cutoff tool. Because they are smaller, Dremels can be used in tight spaces because they are easier to maneuver.
To reduce the risk of your Dremel cutting abrasive material, use a reinforced cutter wheel whenever possible.
Use A Cutting Torch
The fastest way to break through locks is with an A/O torch. Because the torch’s power is unmatched, the lock will not be able to withstand the heat of the torch. Although this method is not recommended, it’s a great way to use a torch if you have one!
Open your oxygen tank completely and turn your acetylene tanks a quarter turn. The PSI of the oxygen tank should be approximately 45-50 PSI, and that for the acetylene should be around 5-6 PSI. Next, turn the oxygen valve of your torch all the the way up and slightly turn the acetylene hose.
You can now light your torch. You can now adjust the acetylene valve so that the torch produces no thick, black smoke. Adjust the oxygen valve so that the flame produces a concentrated, white cone of heat. You are now ready to remove the lock.
It is a good idea to heat the lock before you start cutting. Move the flame slowly and carefully across the lock’s shackle until the flame cuts all the way.
Hacksaw And Propane Torch
This method can be more time-consuming and less practical. This method is a good option if you don’t have bolt cutters and other cutting tools.
Most locks’ shackles are made of hardened steel. A hacksaw blade will not cut it. If you heat the shackle before cutting with the hacksaw, it will become weaker.
Turn on your propane torch and heat the area you want to cut. Keep heating the area until it glows from heat. Turn off your torch and let the lock cool.
After it cools, you’ll be able cut through the shackle using a simple hacksaw within a matter of minutes.
The Final Word
There are many routes that can be taken to remove a lock. You can use bolt cutters, an angle grinder, Dremel, or a torch to cut the lock. But, it is important that you work slowly, safely, and carefully. These tips will ensure that your lock is cut in no time.
