4 Ways To Open A Safe - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Unlock a Safe: Combination Locks, Digital Locks & More PDF download Download Article Your guide to safe-cracking so you can access your important documents, heirlooms, and surprise gifts Co-authored by Robert Vallelunga and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: February 12, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • 3-Wheel Combination Safe
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  • 4-Wheel Combination Safe
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  • Digital and Key-Lock Safes
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  • Using a Locksmith
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This article was co-authored by Robert Vallelunga and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. 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 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 589,189 times.

Safes are great at protecting your important documents and valuable items from theft and disasters. But when you want to access those items, it can be frustrating when your safe just won’t open. Whether you’ve forgotten your combination or you just can’t get the safe to unlock, we’ve got you covered: we’ll help you open up the most common types of safes and guide you on what to do if you’re still stuck. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cracking!

Things You Should Know

  • 3-number locks: Turn the dial left 3 times before the 1st number, right 2 times before the 2nd number, and left 1 time before the 3rd number.
  • 4-number locks: Turn right 4 times before the 1st number, left 3 times before the 2nd number, right twice before the 3rd number, and left once before the 4th number.
  • If you can’t remember the combination to your safe, check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s paperwork.
  • If you can’t locate your combination or the lock is jammed or broken, visit a locksmith to access the safe.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 4:

3-Wheel Combination Safe

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  1. Step 1 Find the combination for your safe in your user’s manual. 1 Find the combination for your safe in your user’s manual. Most combination-locked safes come with a card that has the combination on it. Store the combination card in a safe place and try to memorize the combination as well.
    • Many manufacturers can provide you with the combination for your safe if you lost the combination card and don’t know what it is. You will just have to provide documentation that you are the legal owner of the safe, like your receipt.
  2. Step 2 Turn the dial to the left past the 1st number 3 times, then stop on the number. 2 Turn the dial to the left past the 1st number 3 times, then stop on the number. Spin the dial to the left and count the number of times you pass the 1st number of the combo.[1] Line the number up with the marker at the top of the dial after you pass it 3 times. Stop on the 1st number on your 3rd turn.[2]
    • If you’ve been trying to open the safe for a while, spin the dial to the left 3 times to reset the combination.
    • Always refer to the owner’s manual of your safe first to verify what the procedure is to enter the combo.
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  3. Step 3 Turn the dial to the right past the 2nd number 2 times, then stop on the number. 3 Turn the dial to the right past the 2nd number 2 times, then stop on the number. Rotate the dial to the right and be careful to only pass the 2nd number of the combo 2 times. Then line the number up with the marker at the top of the dial after your 2nd turn.[3]
    • If you accidentally pass the 2nd number more than twice, start the process from the beginning again.
  4. Step 4 Spin the dial to the left past the 3rd number 1 time, then stop on the number. 4 Spin the dial to the left past the 3rd number 1 time, then stop on the number.[4] Carefully spin the dial to the left and only pass the last number in the combo 1 time. Line up the last number of the combo with the index marker at the top of the dial after 1 turn.[5]
    • If you pass the 3rd number more than once by accident, enter the combo from the beginning.
  5. Step 5 Turn the dial to the right until it stops and the bolt retracts. 5 Turn the dial to the right until it stops and the bolt retracts. When the dial stops you will hear the safe unlock with a “click.” You can now open the door of the safe.[6]
    • If the safe does not unlock, you probably made a mistake in the combination or in the process of entering it on the dial. Double-check the numbers and try it again.
  6. Step 6 Rotate the handle and pull the safe door towards you to open it. 6 Rotate the handle and pull the safe door towards you to open it.[7] Most larger safes have a handle that you need to turn after you unlock it. Turn the handle counterclockwise after you complete the combination and pull the door carefully open.
    • Safes generally have heavy doors, so make sure to open them slowly and stand away from them while you open the safe to avoid injury.
    • Keep the handle turned all the way counterclockwise until you close the safe door again, or you may have to enter the combo again to close it.
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Method 2 Method 2 of 4:

4-Wheel Combination Safe

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  1. Step 1 Find the combination for your safe in the original paperwork. 1 Find the combination for your safe in the original paperwork. Combination safes usually come with a combination card. Keep the combination card in a safe place where you can find it in case you forget the combo to your safe.[8]
    • If you lose the combination to your safe, then contact the manufacturer and see if they can provide you with the combo. Typically, you’ll have to show them your receipt as proof of ownership.
  2. Step 2 Turn the dial to the right past the 1st number 4 times, then stop on the number. 2 Turn the dial to the right past the 1st number 4 times, then stop on the number. Spin the dial to the right and count the number of times you pass the 1st number of the combo. Stop on the number after your 4th turn.[9]
    • If you’ve been attempting to open the safe for a while now, spin the dial to the left 4 times to reset it before continuing.
    • Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for your safe to verify the procedure needed to open it.
  3. Step 3 Turn the dial to the left past the 2nd number 3 times, then stop on the number. 3 Turn the dial to the left past the 2nd number 3 times, then stop on the number. Spin the dial to the left until you pass the 2nd number of the combo 3 times. Line the number up with the marker at the top of the dial after your 3rd turn.
    • Rotate the dial slowly and be careful not to pass the number too many times or you will have to start over.
  4. Step 4 Turn the dial to the right past the 3rd number 2 times, then stop on the number. 4 Turn the dial to the right past the 3rd number 2 times, then stop on the number. Rotate the dial to the right and pass the 3rd number of the combo twice. Line the number up with the marker at the top of the dial after your 2nd turn.[10]
    • If you pass the number more than twice, then start the combination over from the beginning.
  5. Step 5 Turn the dial to the left past the 4th number 1 time, then stop on the number. 5 Turn the dial to the left past the 4th number 1 time, then stop on the number. Spin the dial to the left and only pass the last number in the combo 1 time. Line up the 4th number with the index marker at the top of the dial to complete the combo.[11]
    • Be very careful on the last number of the combo not to pass it more than once!
  6. Step 6 Spin the dial to the right slowly until it stops and the bolt in the door retracts. 6 Spin the dial to the right slowly until it stops and the bolt in the door retracts. You will hear the safe unlock when the dial stops. Now you’re ready to open the safe door.[12]
    • If the door of the safe does not unlock, then enter the combo again from the beginning. Double check the numbers in the combination and be careful not to pass any of them too many times.
  7. Step 7 Rotate the handle on the safe door and pull it carefully towards you to open it. 7 Rotate the handle on the safe door and pull it carefully towards you to open it. Larger safes have a handle that you need to turn to open the door. Rotate the handle to the left after you have unlocked it and pull the door open.
    • Don’t turn the handle back to the right until you are ready to lock the safe again or you might have to enter the combo over again.
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Method 3 Method 3 of 4:

Digital and Key-Lock Safes

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  1. Step 1 Punch in the... 1 Punch in the code on the number pad to open a digital safe. Locate the code to your safe, or recall it from memory, and punch the numbers in on the keypad to open the safe. Pull the door open when it is unlocked.
    • Pause for 1 second between each number that you enter to allow the system time to process the code. If there is an “enter” key, press this when you are finished entering the code.
    • Most electronic safes have a code between 4 and 10 digits long.
  2. Step 2 Swipe your combo card and enter the code to open a card-swipe safe. 2 Swipe your combo card and enter the code to open a card-swipe safe. Card-swipe safes require both a pre-programmed card and the code to open. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to program your combo card with a code, then swipe it and enter the code on the safe to open it.[13]
    • These types of safes make it very easy to reprogram the code if you need to, since everything is digital.
  3. Step 3 Put the key in and turn it to the left to open a key-lock safe. 3 Put the key in and turn it to the left to open a key-lock safe. Line up the key with the lock correctly and insert it. Turn it counterclockwise and pull the door towards you to open the safe.[14]
    • If you lose your keys, contact the manufacturer to see if replacement keys are available.
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Method 4 Method 4 of 4:

Using a Locksmith

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  1. Step 1 Find a trusted locksmith in your area if the safe won’t open. 1 Find a trusted locksmith in your area if the safe won’t open. Check online or in your local phone book to find a reliable locksmith. Call them to make sure that they offer safe-opening services and find out what the fees are.[15]
    • The most common reason you might need a locksmith is because you have forgotten or lost the combination to your safe.
    • Occasionally safes can also jam or become damaged, in which case you will require the services of a locksmith to get them open and repair them.
    • Ask the locksmith if you will need to provide documentation to prove that you are the owner of the safe before they will open it.
  2. Step 2 Set an appointment with the locksmith to have them open your safe. 2 Set an appointment with the locksmith to have them open your safe. Schedule a house call, or take your safe in to the locksmith if it is small enough to transport yourself. Make sure you have enough time for the scheduled appointment.[16]
    • Many locksmiths offer 24-hour services, in case you need something out of your safe urgently.
    • If you are opening an old safe that is stuck shut, the locksmith may even be able to cut into the back of it and open it up that way.
  3. Step 3 Reset the combination and write it down in a safe place. 3 Reset the combination and write it down in a safe place. Have the locksmith reset the combination on your safe. Store the new combo in a file cabinet or digitally where you can easily find it next time you need it.
    • If you called a locksmith because your safe is jammed or broken, make sure they perform any necessary repairs and that it is functioning before they leave.
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Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How do I open this type of combination: 3xl - 39, 2xr - 22, 1xl - 39? Donagan Donagan Top Answerer Turn the dial to the left (counterclockwise or anticlockwise) at least three times past 39; then stop at 39. Turn the dial to the right (clockwise) two times past 22; then stop at 22. Turn the dial to the left (counterclockwise) once past 39; then stop at 39. Open the lock. 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 12 Helpful 11
  • Question How do you open a 3 digit safe? Drew Hawkins1 Drew Hawkins1 Community Answer Start by locating the combination. If you can't find it, check in the manufacturer's paperwork that comes with the safe. Turn the dial to the left past the 1st number 3 times, then stop on the number. Then, turn the dial to the right past the 2nd number 2 times, then stop on the number. Finally, turn the dial to the left past the 3rd number 1 time, then stop on the number. After that, slowly turn the dial to the right until it stops and the bolt retracts. When the dial stops you'll hear the safe unlock and you can open it up. Larger safes sometimes have a handle that you need to turn after you unlock it, so just turn it and pull the door open after you 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 5 Helpful 9
  • Question How do you open a safe when you forgot the combination? Drew Hawkins1 Drew Hawkins1 Community Answer Unfortunately, if you forget your combination or you lose your key, the only way to get into your locked safe is to use a professional locksmith. Check online or in your local phone book to find a reliable locksmith. Call them to make sure that they offer safe-opening services and find out what the fees are. Schedule a house call, or take your safe in to the locksmith if it is small enough to transport yourself. Once the locksmith gets your safe open, they'll be able to reset the combination. Make sure you write it down! Keep the combination in a secure location so you don't lose it again and need to hire a locksmith in the future. 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 15 Helpful 9
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

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Tips

  • Most well-known manufacturers have websites where you can download instruction manuals for free. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 3
  • Make it a habit to safely store all instruction manuals for significant purchases you have and keep combinations in a safe place. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 3
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

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References

  1. ↑ Robert Vallelunga. Locksmith. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://www.sopl.us/uploads/1/3/0/1/1301029/opening_dial_combination_safes.pdf
  3. ↑ https://www.sopl.us/uploads/1/3/0/1/1301029/opening_dial_combination_safes.pdf
  4. ↑ Robert Vallelunga. Locksmith. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.sopl.us/uploads/1/3/0/1/1301029/opening_dial_combination_safes.pdf
  6. ↑ https://www.sopl.us/uploads/1/3/0/1/1301029/opening_dial_combination_safes.pdf
  7. ↑ Robert Vallelunga. Locksmith. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://classlocks.com.au/downloads/Safe%20Instructions/S&G%204%20Wheel.pdf
  9. ↑ https://classlocks.com.au/downloads/Safe%20Instructions/S&G%204%20Wheel.pdf
More References (7)
  1. ↑ https://classlocks.com.au/downloads/Safe%20Instructions/S&G%204%20Wheel.pdf
  2. ↑ https://classlocks.com.au/downloads/Safe%20Instructions/S&G%204%20Wheel.pdf
  3. ↑ https://classlocks.com.au/downloads/Safe%20Instructions/S&G%203%20Wheel.pdf
  4. ↑ https://www.mesasafe.com/technical-support/mh101-mhrc916e/OP-Manual_MH-Card-Swipe_6-2015.pdf
  5. ↑ https://www.browning.com/content/dam/browning/support/owners-manuals/2016/14-BSF-289_Safe_Owners_Manual_WEB.pdf
  6. ↑ https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/services/safe-opening/
  7. ↑ https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/services/safe-opening/

About This Article

Robert Vallelunga Co-authored by: Robert Vallelunga Locksmith This article was co-authored by Robert Vallelunga and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. 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 589,189 times. 38 votes - 50% Co-authors: 14 Updated: February 12, 2025 Views: 589,189 Categories: Featured Articles | Locks and Keys Article SummaryX

To open a safe with a 3 wheel combination, start by turning the dial to the left past the first number 3 times before stopping on that number. Once you line the first number up with the marker at the top of the dial, turn the dial to the right past the second number 2 times. After going past the number twice, line up the number with the dial marker. From that position, carefully spin the dial to the left past the third number just once before stopping at the number. With all the numbers in the combination matched, slowly turn the dial to the right until it stops and the bolt retracts. At this point, you should be able to turn the handle and open your safe. If not, you'll need to go back and start from the beginning. For more tips, including how to open a digital safe, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Laura Smith

    Laura Smith

    Nov 24, 2021

    "After hours of trying to get into my mother's safe, knowing we had the right combo, I googled how to get into..." more
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Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Robert Vallelunga Co-authored by: Robert Vallelunga Locksmith 38 votes - 50% Click a star to vote 50% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 14 Updated: February 12, 2025 Views: 589,189 Laura Smith

Laura Smith

Nov 24, 2021

"After hours of trying to get into my mother's safe, knowing we had the right combo, I googled how to get into..." more Seusan

Seusan

Mar 22, 2022

"I have a key pad run by batteries, they are dead , no key as a back up, lights do not light and door does not..." more J Denton

J Denton

Sep 11, 2020

"It actually worked, thanks wikiHow." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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