4 Ways To Open A Padlock - WikiHow

Home » How To Open A Pad Lock » 4 Ways To Open A Padlock - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • 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 How to Unlock a Padlock With a Combination Dial or Key PDF download Download Article Plus, how to open a padlock if you forgot the key or the combination Co-authored by Trevor Maclise and Elaine Heredia, BA

Last Updated: December 8, 2025 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article
  • Single-Dial Combo Lock
    • |
  • Multiple-Dial Combo Lock
    • |
  • Key Lock
    • |
  • Picking a Padlock
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Trevor Maclise and by wikiHow staff writer, Elaine Heredia, BA. Trevor Maclise is a Locksmith and the Owner of Infinity Key Locksmith in San Diego, California. Trevor has over five years of experience in the industry. He specializes in working with residential doors, including door and frame replacements, door hardware installation, multi-point locks, and mortise locks. There are 7 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 204,326 times.

Padlocks are a great tool you can use to safely secure your possessions inside a locker, storage unit, toolbox, gym, or shed. In this article, we'll show you how to unlock 3 common types of padlocks: the single-dial combination, the multiple-dial combination, and the key lock. We'll also share simple tips for opening a padlock without a key or a combination in case you misplaced it.

Opening a Padlock: The 3 Most Common Types

  • Single-Dial: Turn the dial clockwise for the first number, counterclockwise for the second, then clockwise again for the last number in the combination.
  • Multiple-Dial: Rotate the dials left to right so the middle numbers match the code.
  • Key Lock: Insert the key into the padlock keyhole and turn it counterclockwise to unlock it.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

How to Open a Single Dial Combination Padlock

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Turn the dial clockwise at least 3 times. 1 Turn the dial clockwise at least 3 times. Turning the dial 3 full rotations clockwise (to the right) will reset the numbers and allow you to input the first number in your combination. In most padlocks, if you don't reset it first, the code won't work.
  2. Step 2 Turn the dial clockwise and stop on the first number in the combination. 2 Turn the dial clockwise and stop on the first number in the combination. On your third rotation, line up the indicator on the top of the lock with the first digit in your combination. The indicator usually looks like an arrow or upside-down triangle.
    • Most new padlocks come with the combination etched on the back of the lock or listed somewhere in the packaging.[1] Write it down or save it on your phone so you know where to look if you forget it.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Turn the dial a full turn counterclockwise and stop on the second number. 3 Turn the dial a full turn counterclockwise and stop on the second number. Turn the dial counterclockwise (to the left), passing the first number in the combination. Then, line the indicator up with the second digit in your combination. Stop rotating the dial after you stop on the second digit.[2]
    • Remember to pass the first number in the combination when turning the dial or your lock will not open.
  4. Step 4 Turn the dial clockwise and stop on the last digit in the combination. 4 Turn the dial clockwise and stop on the last digit in the combination. Complete the opening of your lock by rotating the dial clockwise until the indicator matches up with the last digit in the combination. Then stop turning the dial.
    • When you stop on the last digit in the combination, you should hear the click of the shackle disengaging with the lock's body.
  5. Step 5 Pull on the body of the lock to open it. 5 Pull on the body of the lock to open it. Gently pull down on the body of the lock to disengage it. Then, rotate the lock and remove it to access your storage or valuables.
    • If the combination lock is jammed, locksmith Trevor Maclise says you can try pulling on the shackle really hard or pushing the shaft inward a little bit. If neither of those options works, try inserting a small, thin piece of metal called a shim into the tiny gap on the side of the shackle where it locks in place. Then wiggle it to try to loosen the jam and spring the lock open.[3]
    6. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

How to Open a Multiple Dial Combination Padlock

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Rotate the left dial to the first digit of the code. 1 Rotate the left dial to the first digit of the code. The first number in the code represents the number that your leftmost dial must be on to open the lock. Rotate the dials until the indicator on the side of the lock lines up with the first digit of the code.
    • Sometimes, the indicator for the numbers will be a red line or arrow.
  2. Step 2 Rotate the other 2 dials to match the other 2 digits in the code. 2 Rotate the other 2 dials to match the other 2 digits in the code. Continue rotating the rest of the dials from left to right until all three of the correct numbers are aligned with the indicator on the side. They should correspond with the code as you read it from left to right.
  3. Step 3 Pull on the body of the padlock to disengage the lock. 3 Pull on the body of the padlock to disengage the lock. Once you correctly input all the numbers, pull on the body of the lock to disengage the shackle. When you put the lock back on, make sure to rotate each dial a couple of times to reset the lock.
    4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 4:

How to Open a Key Padlock

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Look under the padlock for the keyhole. 1 Look under the padlock for the keyhole. Tilt the bottom of the padlock towards you so that you can see the keyhole. If it's dark where you are, you may need to use a flashlight or cell phone to illuminate the hole for you.
  2. Step 2 Insert the key into the keyhole. 2 Insert the key into the keyhole. Take the key with your index finger and thumb and firmly push it into the keyhole. If it doesn't fit into the keyhole, turn the key over and try again.
    • If the key won't fit regardless of what you try, there's a good chance that it's the wrong key.
    • Every key has a different profile which will push pins up inside of the lock and disengage the shackle when you have the right key.
  3. Step 3 Turn the key counterclockwise to free the shackle. 3 Turn the key counterclockwise to free the shackle. Most keylock padlocks will unlock when you turn the key counterclockwise, although this may not always be the case. Turn your key back and forth if turning it clockwise doesn't open it. You'll feel the shackle disengaging and will be able to open it easily once it's unlocked.
  4. Step 4 Pull on the body of the lock to pull it free. 4 Pull on the body of the lock to pull it free. Once the shackle has disengaged, pull on the body of the lock to free it. You can then rotate the shackle to remove it from whatever you're trying to open. When you close the lock back up, make sure that you feel and hear a click, which means that the shaft is locked in place again.
    • Some padlocks will require you to put the key in and turn it clockwise to lock it.
    5. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

How to Unlock a Padlock Without a Key or Combination

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Pick the lock with a tension wrench and a rake. 1 Pick the lock with a tension wrench and a rake. If you lose the key or the combination to your keypad, Maclise recommends picking the lock with a tension wrench and a lockpick called a rake.[4] Stick the tension wrench into the top or bottom of the keyhole and hold it to the side with your fingertip with a small amount of tension. This tension will help the pins stay in place when you pick them so the padlock will open. Then, insert the rake into the keyhole and slowly wiggle it up and down to depress the pins.
    • Repeat this movement once or twice until you hear the pins click, then open the padlock.
    • You can also make your own tension wrench and rake with paperclips or using Bobby pins you have lying around the house.
  2. Step 2 Hit the side of the lock with a small hammer. 2 Hit the side of the lock with a small hammer. Sometimes, you can dislodge the shackle from the lock by simply tapping on the side of the lock. Apply tension on the shackle by pulling on the body of the lock, then hit the hammer on the side of the body to force open the shackle.[5]
  3. Step 3 Use a bolt cutter to cut the body of the lock. 3 Use a bolt cutter to cut the body of the lock. Most people think the best place to cut a padlock is the shackle. But the shackle is usually made of iron steel, which is a much tougher metal than you'll find on the body of the lock. If you try to cut through the shackle, you could damage your bolt cutters! Instead, position 18 in or 36 in (45.72 cm or 91.44 cm) bolt cutters over the body. Squeeze the handles and cut through the body, then pull out the shackle and remove the padlock.[6]
  4. Step 4 Contact the lock company. 4 Contact the lock company. Sometimes lock companies will be able to tell you your padlock combination if your lock has a serial number, which can usually be found as an engraving on the back of the lock. Call the manufacturer of your padlock or submit a lost combination form by mail, fax, or email.[7]
  5. Step 5 Hire a locksmith. 5 Hire a locksmith. If you can't find or remember the combination or the key for your lock, you can hire a professional locksmith to pick the lock or to cut the shackle to open it. Make sure to read reviews of your locksmith and call them to get a quote. A typical locksmith visit costs between $107 to $241.[8]
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How do you cut a padlock shackle? Shawn Fago Shawn Fago Master Locksmith Shawn Fago is a Master Locksmith and the Founder of Noble Locksmith, a nationwide locksmith company based in San Diego, California. With over seven years of experience, he provides commercial, residential, and automotive locksmith services to customers. Shawn attended California State University, Fullerton. Shawn Fago Shawn Fago Master Locksmith Expert Answer Use something with a cutting wheel like an angle grinder with a cut-off blade on it. A Dremel with a metal cutting blade would also work. If that type of tool doesn't work, drill the the shear line on the lock cylinder and turn the cylinder to unlock it. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 7
  • Question How do you pick a padlock with a tension wrench and a rake? Trevor Maclise Trevor Maclise Locksmith Trevor Maclise is a Locksmith and the Owner of Infinity Key Locksmith in San Diego, California. Trevor has over five years of experience in the industry. He specializes in working with residential doors, including door and frame replacements, door hardware installation, multi-point locks, and mortise locks. Trevor Maclise Trevor Maclise Locksmith Expert Answer Insert the tension wrench at the bottom of the key and hold it towards the side. While keeping tension on the wrench, insert the rake inside the lock and move it up, down, back, and forth as you try to touch all the pins. When you do that a couple of times, the padlock will usually open. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
  • Question What if the padlock is frozen with ice and my key can't get into it? Community Answer Community Answer Find the cheapest window to break, and enter. If possible, make sure that the window is in the garage so no cold air will get in. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 37 Helpful 13
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • If you've lost the code to your combination padlock, look on the back of it to see if the 3-digit code is stamped or engraved there. You can also check the original packaging or contact the lock manufacturer for help finding the code. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
  • If you've lost the key to your padlock, try picking it with a tension wrench and a rake. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
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

You Might Also Like

Open a 3 Digit Combination LockHow to Open a 3 Digit Combination Lock: An Easy Guide Open a LockHow toOpen a Lock Open a SafeHow to Unlock a Safe: Combination Locks, Digital Locks & More Open a Combination LockHow toOpen a Combination Lock Open Combination Locks Without a CodeHow toOpen Combination Locks Without a Code Crack a "Master Lock" Combination LockHow to Open a Master Lock Combination Lock without the Code Pick a Master PadlockHow to Pick a Master Lock with a Lock-Picking Kit or DIY Tools Reset a Master LockHow toReset a Master Lock Open Your LockerHow toOpen Your Locker Open a Locked Suitcase Without the CombinationHow toOpen a Locked Suitcase Without the Combination Open Master LocksHow toOpen Master Locks Pick a LockHow toPick a Lock Break a LockHow toBreak a Lock Open an Old SafeHow toOpen an Old Safe Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://youtu.be/gCs3DlsShWQ?si=czy4aanAjmBX05TB&t=3
  2. ↑ http://content.masterlock.com/masterlock/resources/documents/pdf/Master_Lock_Combination_Tutorial.pdf
  3. ↑ Trevor Maclise. Locksmith. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ Trevor Maclise. Locksmith. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ http://lifehacker.com/open-a-claw-padlock-using-the-rapping-method-no-lock-1745794769
  6. ↑ https://youtu.be/vZnisybIqrs?si=-3FgpELd312TjnRG&t=70
  7. ↑ http://www.masterlock.com/service-and-support/faqs/lost-combinations
  8. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/keys-home-locksmith-assistance-and-costs.htm

About This Article

Trevor Maclise Co-authored by: Trevor Maclise Locksmith This article was co-authored by Trevor Maclise and by wikiHow staff writer, Elaine Heredia, BA. Trevor Maclise is a Locksmith and the Owner of Infinity Key Locksmith in San Diego, California. Trevor has over five years of experience in the industry. He specializes in working with residential doors, including door and frame replacements, door hardware installation, multi-point locks, and mortise locks. This article has been viewed 204,326 times. 3 votes - 33% Co-authors: 8 Updated: December 8, 2025 Views: 204,326 Categories: Locks and Keys Article SummaryX

To open a combination padlock, start by turning the dial 3 times to the right to reset the numbers, since most padlocks won't work unless they're reset. On your third rotation, turn the dial to the first number in your code. Next, turn the dial to the left until you land on the second number. Finally, turn the dial to the right to land on the last number, which should open your lock. Alternatively, if you’re using a key padlock, locate the keyhole on the bottom of the lock and insert the key. Then, turn it counterclockwise to open the lock. For tips on how to cut a padlock using bolt cutters, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish French Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 204,326 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. icon $1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Trevor Maclise Co-authored by: Trevor Maclise Locksmith 3 votes - 33% Click a star to vote 33% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 8 Updated: December 8, 2025 Views: 204,326

Quizzes & Games

Am I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizEmoji TestEmoji TestTake QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizAdvanced Roulette GameAdvanced Roulette GamePlayHow Many Digits of Pi Do I Know QuizHow Many Digits of Pi Do I Know QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Open a 3 Digit Combination LockHow to Open a 3 Digit Combination Lock: An Easy GuideOpen a LockHow toOpen a LockOpen a SafeHow to Unlock a Safe: Combination Locks, Digital Locks & MoreOpen a Combination LockHow toOpen a Combination Lock

Featured Articles

What Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?What Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?200+ Best Questions to Ask Someone You Like (Texting & IRL)200+ Best Questions to Ask Someone You Like (Texting & IRL)How Beautiful Am I QuizHow Beautiful Am I Quiz13 Types of Hairlines for Men and Women (And How to Maintain Yours)13 Types of Hairlines for Men and Women (And How to Maintain Yours)Which of the 8 Face Shapes Do You Have? Helpful Tips & Style GuidanceWhich of the 8 Face Shapes Do You Have? Helpful Tips & Style GuidanceMental Illness TestMental Illness Test

Trending Articles

Let Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizLet Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizCan We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Make OutHow toMake OutAm I a Gigachad or Totally Chopped?Am I a Gigachad or Totally Chopped?How Rare Is My Birthday QuizHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizHow Nonchalant Am I QuizHow Nonchalant Am I Quiz

Featured Articles

Enjoy the HolidaysHow toEnjoy the Holidays Get 250 Grams of Protein Daily: Best Foods, Meal Plans & MoreHow to Get 250 Grams of Protein Daily: Best Foods, Meal Plans & MoreAm I Girly QuizAm I Girly Quiz200 Fun, Flirty, & Deep Questions to Get to Know a Guy Better200 Fun, Flirty, & Deep Questions to Get to Know a Guy Better Tighten Skin Under Your Chin: Natural or Surgical OptionsHow to Tighten Skin Under Your Chin: Natural or Surgical OptionsWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizWhat Would My Nickname Be Quiz

Featured Articles

21 Common Hand Signs & Gestures (& What They Mean)21 Common Hand Signs & Gestures (& What They Mean)170+ Best Useless Facts That Sound Like Lies170+ Best Useless Facts That Sound Like LiesIs He Interested In Me QuizIs He Interested In Me Quiz15 Signs Your Ex Misses You (and What to Do About It)15 Signs Your Ex Misses You (and What to Do About It) Observe Hanukkah (From Candle Lighting to Latke Frying)How to Observe Hanukkah (From Candle Lighting to Latke Frying)165+ "You Are Special" Quotes For Friends, Family, Partners & More165+ "You Are Special" Quotes For Friends, Family, Partners & More

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round GiftHow toWrap a Round GiftSteam in an OvenHow toSteam in an Oven Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesClean a Silver NecklaceHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of Soda4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaPart Your HairHow toPart Your Hair

Trending Articles

180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any ArgumentAm I a Furry QuizAm I a Furry QuizHave I Met My Soulmate Yet QuizHave I Met My Soulmate Yet QuizRandom Fortune GeneratorRandom Fortune GeneratorWhat Should My Name Really Be QuizWhat Should My Name Really Be QuizWhat Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)What Are the Gay Male Body Types (And Which Do You Have?)

Quizzes & Games

Music Notes & Symbols TestMusic Notes & Symbols TestTake QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizIQ TestIQ TestTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizWould I Survive a Horror Movie QuizWould I Survive a Horror Movie QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Home and Garden
  • Disaster Preparedness
  • Home Security
  • Locks and Keys
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.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --662

Tag » How To Open A Pad Lock