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Any experienced locksmith will tell you that lock bumping has become a popular technique for breaking into homes and businesses in recent years, and it all starts with a bump key. A bump key is a specially cut key that can open most standard pin tumbler locks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at bump keys and how they work.
At Southwest Locksmith, we know the tactics intruders use to gain entry into a property. It’s why we like to keep our customers informed about these dangers so they can decide to contact a licensed locksmith to get all their locks checked.
A bump key is a type of key that is cut in a way that allows it to open most pin tumbler locks. Pin tumbler lock systems are the most common type of lock used in homes and businesses worldwide. They use a series of varying lengths of pins to prevent the lock from opening without the correct key.
A bump key works by “bumping” the pins inside the lock into the correct position to open the lock. The bump key is put in the lock and “bumped” with a tool (like a screwdriver or hammer). The force of the bump causes the pins inside the lock to jump up for a split second, allowing the key to turn and open the lock.
It’s helpful to understand how pin tumbler locks work, to understand how a bump key works. Pin tumbler locks consist of cylinders that rotate inside a housing. The cylinder contains multiple pins of varying lengths, each of which is divided into two parts: the top pin and the bottom pin.
The top pins are at the top of the cylinder, while the bottom pins are at the bottom. When the correct key is inserted into the lock, the notches align with the pins, allowing the cylinder to rotate and the lock to open.
When a bump key gets inserted into a lock, the key’s specially cut teeth align with the bottom pins in the cylinder. The key is then “bumped” with a small object, causing the pins to jump up for a split second. The force of the bump causes the top pins to move above the shear line, allowing the cylinder to rotate and the lock to open.
An Inner West locksmith will commonly use bump keys to open locked doors when the owner has lost or forgotten the key. However, in recent years, bump keys have become popular with thieves and burglars to break into homes and businesses quickly and easily.
Bump keys are attractive to burglars because they are easy to make and can open most basic pin tumbler locks. With a bump key, a burglar can quickly gain entry into a home or business without leaving any signs of forced entry.
There are several ways to protect yourself from bump keys. The first is to use high-security locks that are resistant to bumping. High-security locks are designed to make it more difficult for bump keys to work by using additional pins, sidebars, or other features that make the lock more resistant to manipulation.
Another way to protect yourself from bump keys is to use a deadbolt lock. Deadbolt locks are more secure than standard locks because they have a thicker bolt extending further into the door frame, making it more difficult to kick in or manipulate the lock with a bump key.
Finally, you must be aware of your surroundings and take steps to secure your home or business. Ensure all windows and doors are locked, and consider installing a security system that includes motion sensors, cameras, and other features to deter burglars.
While locksmiths use bump keys commonly, they have become popular with burglars to break into homes and businesses quickly and easily. To protect your home from any unwanted entry, call a reliable Inner West locksmith to check your door lock and replace it with a high-security lock.
Southwest Locksmith is the Inner West Locksmith to call for the most advanced locking systems. It can help improve your property’s security significantly.
We offer reliable and prompt services at the most cost-effective pricing. Call us at 02 9186 3397 or write to us through this Online Form, and we will get back to you soon to discuss your requirements.