PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Home and Garden
Disaster Preparedness
Home Security
Locks and Keys
Lock Picking
How to Pick a Sentry Safe Lock Download ArticleExplore this Article methods 1 Opening a Digital Lock with a Magnet 2 Picking a Key Lock with a Nail File 3 Picking a Key Lock with a Paperclip Other Sections Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles Expert Interview References Article Summary Co-authored by Robert Vallelunga
Last Updated: February 26, 2026 Fact Checked
Download Article X
This article was co-authored by Robert Vallelunga. Robert Vallelunga is a Locksmith and the Owner of ACME Locksmith in the Phoenix Metro Area. Robert has over 15 years of experience in the industry and specializes in working with automotive ignitions, locks, keys, and master key systems. Robert and the team at ACME are the #1 Rated Phoenix Locksmith Service and the Winner of the Better Business Bureau Ethics Award. Robert has his Residential & Commercial Contractor’s License and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 273,801 times.
If you lost your SentrySafe’s key or code, there are a few ways to pick the lock. If your safe has a digital lock with a number keypad, you can pick it in seconds with little effort.[1]XResearch source Purchase a strong rare earth magnet online and use it to trigger the solenoid, which is the part of the safe that springs the lock. If you need to pick a flat keyhole lock, you can use a metal nail file, flat-head screwdriver, or straightened paperclip. While it’s a bit trickier, you should be able to pick the lock after a little wiggling and jiggling. Regardless of the method you choose, never pick the lock of a safe that doesn't belong to you.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Opening a Digital Lock with a Magnet
Download Article
1 Purchase a rare earth magnet with a 125 pounds (57 kg) pull force. You can buy a rare earth magnet with enough pull force online for between $20 and $50 (USD). Choose a disc shaped magnet that’s a little larger than a hockey puck, and ensure it has the right pull force.[2]XResearch source
2 Do not put your fingers between the magnet and metal. Use caution when handling a powerful magnet. You could suffer a serious injury if your finger or other body part gets caught between a magnet and metal.[3]XResearch source
A rare earth magnet with a 125 pounds (57 kg) pull force could break a finger. When you hold it near the safe, grasp it from its sides. Keep your fingers clear of the broad, circular face that will attract and cling to the safe.
Keep the magnet away from credit or debit cards, phones, tablets, computers, and other electronic devices. Additionally, anyone who has a pacemaker must avoid coming into contact with a strong magnet.
Store the magnet in a secure box out of reach of children. While you can store it in a box made of a magnetic metal, it'll be easier to lift it out of a non-magnetic container.
Advertisement
3 Put the magnet in an old sock. A sock will make easier to slide the magnet over the safe’s surface.[4]XResearch source
4 Hold the magnet to the top left corner of the safe. There’s a part called the solenoid in the safe’s top left corner that springs the lock mechanism when it’s electronically triggered. Holding the magnet to this part of the safe will trigger the solenoid.[5]XResearch source
5 Grasp the handle and wiggle the magnet until the safe opens. Hold the magnet at the top left corner with one hand and the safe’s handle with the other. Slide the magnet around the top corner slightly as you pull the handle. Within a few seconds, the magnet will trigger the solenoid and unlock the safe.[6]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Picking a Key Lock with a Nail File
Download Article
1 Insert a small metal nail file into the keyhole. Find a metal nail file with a pointed end that’s small enough to fit into the keyhole. Slide the file pointed side down all the way into the hole.[7]XResearch source
If you don’t have a nail file, you can use a small flat-head screwdriver.[8]XResearch source
2 Jiggle the file up and down until you hear a click. After inserting the file as far as possible into the keyhole, wiggle it up and down to release the pins. You’ll hear a click when you’ve released the pins.[9]XResearch source
It might take some time, so keep jiggling until you hear the pins release.
3 Turn the file in the direction the lock opens when you hear a click. As soon as you hear a click, twist the file to open the lock. SentrySafe locks usually turn to the left.[10]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Picking a Key Lock with a Paperclip
Download Article
1 Cut a straightened paperclip in half. Straighten a paperclip, then use a pair of needle-nose pliers with a wire cutter to cut it in half.[11]X Expert Source Robert VallelungaLocksmithExpert Interview [12]XResearch source
2 Pinch 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) of an end of the paperclip and fold it over.[13]X Expert Source Robert VallelungaLocksmithExpert Interview Use the pliers to pinch the end of one of the halves. Fold the end about 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) from its tip. The folded end should be completely closed, so it’s flush with the half’s remaining length.[14]XResearch source
3 Bend the folded end at a 90 degree angle to create a tension tool. Grab the folded end with the pliers and bend it at the fold's tip. When you're done, this half of the paperclip should look like a straight wire with a tiny hook bent at a right angle on one end.[15]X Expert Source Robert VallelungaLocksmithExpert Interview [16]XResearch source
You’ll insert the tension tool into the bottom of the keyhole and use it to turn the lock open.
4 Bend the other half’s end at a 45 degree angle to make a picking tool. Hold an end of the other half of the paperclip with your pliers about 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) from the tip. Fold this length at a 45 degree angle.[17]XResearch source
The picking tool is what you’ll use to rake and release the pins.[18]XResearch source
5 Insert the tension tool into the bottom of the keyhole. Slide the tension tool in with the hook facing down. Push it into the keyhole’s shear line, or the bottom of the hole, until you encounter resistance.[19]XResearch source
6 Turn the tension tool in the direction the lock turns. Use as little force as possible to rotate the tension tool just slightly. You’ll need to carefully apply slight rotational tension, or twisting force, with the tension tool as you jiggle the pins with the picking tool.
SentrySafe locks typically open to the left.
7 Insert the pick tool all the way into the keyhole. Slide the pick tool all the way to the back of the upper part of the keyhole. The 45 degree bend should face up.[20]XResearch source
SentrySafe locks often have 4 pins, and you’ll need to access the last pin at the back of the lock.
8 Jiggle the pick tool quickly until the lock opens. Rake the pins by jiggling the pick up and down as you slowly pull it toward the keyhole’s opening. Keep the tension tool turned slightly toward the open position as you jiggle. Keep raking until you hear a click, then turn the tension tool all the way to the left to open the lock.[21]XResearch source
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Using a magnet to open a digital lock won't damage the lock or safe. However, inserting any object other than the key into the keyhole could damage the lock, especially if you're not experienced with picking locks. If you're concerned about damaging the lock, call a locksmith or contact SentrySafe to request a replacement key or combination: https://www.sentrysafe.com/support/lost-key-combo. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Don't use these techniques to pick a lock on a safe that isn't yours. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 16
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How to Quickly Unlock a Sentry SafeHow toPick a Lock Using a PaperclipAn Intro to Lock Picking Using Everyday ObjectsHow toPick a Filing Cabinet LockHow to Pick a Master Lock with a Lock-Picking Kit or DIY ToolsHow to Open a Digital Safe Without a Key or CombinationHow to Unlock a Safe: Combination Locks, Digital Locks & MoreHow toMake a LockpickHow to Reprogram a Sentry Safe with or without the Factory CodeHow toUnlock a DoorHow toOpen a LockHow to Unlock a Padlock With a Combination Dial or KeyHow toPick a Lock with a Bobby PinHow toOpen an Old Safe Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about lock picking, check out our in-depth interview with Robert Vallelunga.
Co-authored by: Robert Vallelunga Locksmith This article was co-authored by Robert Vallelunga. Robert Vallelunga is a Locksmith and the Owner of ACME Locksmith in the Phoenix Metro Area. Robert has over 15 years of experience in the industry and specializes in working with automotive ignitions, locks, keys, and master key systems. Robert and the team at ACME are the #1 Rated Phoenix Locksmith Service and the Winner of the Better Business Bureau Ethics Award. Robert has his Residential & Commercial Contractor’s License and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University. This article has been viewed 273,801 times. 23 votes - 79% Co-authors: 11Updated: February 26, 2026 Views: 273,801 Categories: Lock PickingArticle SummaryX
To pick a safe sentry lock, start by inserting a small metal nail file all the way into the keyhole. If you don’t have a nail file, you can try using a small flat-head screwdriver. With the file in the keyhole as far as it can go, jiggle it up and down to release the pins and stop once you hear a click. After the click, turn the file to the left to open the safe. For digital locks, buy a disc-shaped rare earth magnet with 125 pounds of pull force and hold it to the top left corner of the safe. Once the magnet is in place, grab the handle and wiggle the magnet as you pull the handle until the internal mechanism unlocks the safe. For more tips, including how to pick a key lock with a paperclip, read on.Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 273,801 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Robert Vallelunga Locksmith 23 votes - 79% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 11Updated: February 26, 2026 Views: 273,801
Quizzes & Games
Would I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizCan You Pull Off The Perfect Heist? Prove YourselfPlayDo I Have Common Sense QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizHow Strong Am I?Take Quiz
You Might Also Like
How to Quickly Unlock a Sentry SafeHow toPick a Lock Using a PaperclipAn Intro to Lock Picking Using Everyday ObjectsHow toPick a Filing Cabinet Lock
Featured Articles
How toMake a Paper AirplaneHow toLearn Morse CodeHow toFold an Origami Star (Shuriken)How to Fold and Use a Paper Fortune Teller
Trending Articles
What Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouFinish the Lyrics Quiz
Featured Articles
What Animal Am I QuizAm I Gay QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend QuizAm I an Alpha, Beta, or Omega Quiz
Featured Articles
160+ Good Roasts to Burn Your Friends & Family MembersHow to Play the Snaps Guessing Game140+ Wavelength Game Categories & Questions to Extend Your PlayThe Ultimate Collection of Funny, Cheesy, & Romantic Rizz LinesVirtual Truth or Dare Questions to Keep Things Interesting180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument
Watch Articles
How toEat GuavaHow to Get Yellow Stains Out of White ShoesLeft Eye Twitching for Females: What Astrology Says About Eye Twitching50 First Date Conversation Starters to Spark a ConnectionHow to Make a Mask Out of Paper (for Kids or Adults)How to Put Jibbitz on Crocs
Trending Articles
Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?How to Read Face Moles: Lucky and Unlucky PlacementsWhat JJK Character Am I QuizFade Hairstyle Types for Men: A Complete GuideRecessed Maxilla (Upper Jawbone): Symptoms & TreatmentCan Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?
Quizzes & Games
Would I Survive a Horror Movie QuizTake QuizCan You Pass Our Lie Detector Test?Take QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizGuess My Deepest Secret QuizTake QuizHow Lucky Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Tarot Card Am I QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Home and Garden
Disaster Preparedness
Home Security
Locks and Keys
Lock Picking
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Opening a Digital Lock with a Magnet 2 Picking a Key Lock with a Nail File 3 Picking a Key Lock with a Paperclip Other Sections Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles Expert Interview References Article Summary Co-authored by Robert Vallelunga 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Robert Vallelunga Locksmith This article was co-authored by Robert Vallelunga. Robert Vallelunga is a Locksmith and the Owner of ACME Locksmith in the Phoenix Metro Area. Robert has over 15 years of experience in the industry and specializes in working with automotive ignitions, locks, keys, and master key systems. Robert and the team at ACME are the #1 Rated Phoenix Locksmith Service and the Winner of the Better Business Bureau Ethics Award. Robert has his Residential & Commercial Contractor’s License and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University. This article has been viewed 273,801 times. 23 votes - 79% Co-authors: 11 Updated: February 26, 2026 Views: 273,801 Categories: Lock Picking Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Play
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
677 
1 Purchase a rare earth magnet with a 125 pounds (57 kg) pull force. You can buy a rare earth magnet with enough pull force online for between $20 and $50 (USD). Choose a disc shaped magnet that’s a little larger than a hockey puck, and ensure it has the right pull force.[2] 
2 Do not put your fingers between the magnet and metal. Use caution when handling a powerful magnet. You could suffer a serious injury if your finger or other body part gets caught between a magnet and metal.[3] 
3 Put the magnet in an old sock. A sock will make easier to slide the magnet over the safe’s surface.[4] 
4 Hold the magnet to the top left corner of the safe. There’s a part called the solenoid in the safe’s top left corner that springs the lock mechanism when it’s electronically triggered. Holding the magnet to this part of the safe will trigger the solenoid.[5] 
5 Grasp the handle and wiggle the magnet until the safe opens. Hold the magnet at the top left corner with one hand and the safe’s handle with the other. Slide the magnet around the top corner slightly as you pull the handle. Within a few seconds, the magnet will trigger the solenoid and unlock the safe.[6] Advertisement 
1 Insert a small metal nail file into the keyhole. Find a metal nail file with a pointed end that’s small enough to fit into the keyhole. Slide the file pointed side down all the way into the hole.[7] 
2 Jiggle the file up and down until you hear a click. After inserting the file as far as possible into the keyhole, wiggle it up and down to release the pins. You’ll hear a click when you’ve released the pins.[9] 
3 Turn the file in the direction the lock opens when you hear a click. As soon as you hear a click, twist the file to open the lock. SentrySafe locks usually turn to the left.[10] Advertisement 
1 Cut a straightened paperclip in half. Straighten a paperclip, then use a pair of needle-nose pliers with a wire cutter to cut it in half.[11] [12] 
2 Pinch 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) of an end of the paperclip and fold it over.[13] Use the pliers to pinch the end of one of the halves. Fold the end about 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) from its tip. The folded end should be completely closed, so it’s flush with the half’s remaining length.[14] 
3 Bend the folded end at a 90 degree angle to create a tension tool. Grab the folded end with the pliers and bend it at the fold's tip. When you're done, this half of the paperclip should look like a straight wire with a tiny hook bent at a right angle on one end.[15] [16] 
4 Bend the other half’s end at a 45 degree angle to make a picking tool. Hold an end of the other half of the paperclip with your pliers about 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) from the tip. Fold this length at a 45 degree angle.[17] 
5 Insert the tension tool into the bottom of the keyhole. Slide the tension tool in with the hook facing down. Push it into the keyhole’s shear line, or the bottom of the hole, until you encounter resistance.[19] 
6 Turn the tension tool in the direction the lock turns. Use as little force as possible to rotate the tension tool just slightly. You’ll need to carefully apply slight rotational tension, or twisting force, with the tension tool as you jiggle the pins with the picking tool. 
7 Insert the pick tool all the way into the keyhole. Slide the pick tool all the way to the back of the upper part of the keyhole. The 45 degree bend should face up.[20] 
8 Jiggle the pick tool quickly until the lock opens. Rake the pins by jiggling the pick up and down as you slowly pull it toward the keyhole’s opening. Keep the tension tool turned slightly toward the open position as you jiggle. Keep raking until you hear a click, then turn the tension tool all the way to the left to open the lock.[21] Advertisement 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.