Do I need bolt cutters?

Author: Frederick Senger  |  Last update: Friday, June 24, 2022

Despite the name, bolt cutters are useful for a lot more jobs than cutting bolts. In addition to removing padlocks with forgotten combinations or missing keys, bolt cutters can cut wire mesh used to reinforce concrete pads, rebar used for landscaping, and metal wire for chain link fencing.

When would you use a bolt cutter?

Bolt cutters' blades are flat. These are made to cut through heavy metal, like locks, cables and heavy wiring. Plus, they can also be used for cutting wood, like branches or dowels. Bolt cutters have handles up to 4 feet in length, and generally, the longer the handle, the more force that can be applied.

What can you use instead of bolt cutters?

However, most people do not have bolt cutters sitting around.
...
In this article, we'll go over some of the easiest ways to cut through a padlock without bolt cutters.
  • Use an Angle Grinder. ...
  • Use a Dremel. ...
  • Use a Propane Torch and Hacksaw. ...
  • Use a Cutting Torch. ...
  • Use a Hammer. ...
  • Use a Shim.

Are bolt cutters hard to use?

Bolt cutters are ideal portable hand tools that are useful for cutting locks, chains, fences and bolts. Around the home there are many uses for bolt cutters. They are tough tools that will work in any situation a small section of (usually cylindrical) metal needs to be cut.

What kind of bolt cutters do I need to cut a padlock?

The available sizes of bolt cutters are 8, 10, 12 14, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42. In this tutorial, you will need 24 inches bolt cutters. A medium-size bolt cutter includes a long handle that is ideal for cutting padlocks and bolts because of the greater leverage it provides.

All About Bolt Cutters | The Handyguys Live

How do you break a padlock without tools?

This is a less hassle way on how to break a padlock without tools. All you need to do is find two wenches. Put both of their U-shaped clasp between the shackles and quickly pull closer until their handles meet. This will help in detaching the locking mechanism between the shackle and the body of the padlock.

What's the best tool for cutting off a padlock?

Bolt cutters are the common tool of choice for to cut padlocks during forcible-entry. Unfortunately, most padlocks are made of case-hardened steel, which is very strong in comparison to the materials that bolt cutters were intended to cut.

Can bolt cutters cut all locks?

Yes, bolt cutters are an effective tool you can use to cut off a lock. Choose a pair of long-handled bolt cutters and place the shackle between the blades. Squeeze the grips of the bolt cutters together until they cut through the shackle. Then, simply remove the lock.

Can a woman use bolt cutters?

You should be fine. I'm a bit above average strength for a woman and I found I had to work a bit but it didn't feel like an all-out effort! In terms of lifting the bolt cutters, it's not any harder than most things you do in daily life--certainly easier than lifting an averaged-sized carry-on into the overhead bin!

How do you use a bolt cutter for the first time?

How to use bolt cutters
  1. Step 1 – Oil joints if necessary. ...
  2. Step 2 – Check jaw gap is even. ...
  3. Step 3 – Choose cutting point. ...
  4. Step 4 – Position material at base of jaws. ...
  5. Step 5 – If necessary, brace cutter arm. ...
  6. Step 6 – Close blades. ...
  7. Step 7 – Apply pressure.

How do you cut a metal chain without a bolt cutter?

If you don't have bolt cutters, use a hacksaw, angle grinder, or reciprocating saw instead. Secure the chain in a clamp or vise, then saw through 1 link. Keep sawing until both sides of the link are cut in two.

Can a grinder cut a padlock?

Angle Grinder

This can be the best way to cut a lock. Known as a side grinder disc grinder, this is a mobile machine used for sharp cutting and honing. The 60 grit disc, which is 3⁄64 inches (1.2 mm) in thickness, is the ideal size. It is compact but can be used to cut thick metal shackles.

Can you cut a master lock with bolt cutters?

A bolt cutter is one of the options to consider for cutting padlock, and it can also be used for the master lock, but it requires lots of patience and effort to do that, especially with locks made from hardened steel.

Can bolt cutters cut steel cable?

bolt cutter can cut through 5/8-in., vinyl-coated, flexible, braided, steel cable in 60 seconds. The cable took a bit longer than solid chain because it didn't sever as cleanly.

Can cable cutters cut through steel?

For the most basic application of cutting cables, you can use the wire cutters to cut copper, brass, aluminium, iron and steel wire. To protect you from being shocked by the electric cables you are working with; some wire cutters have insulated handles.

Can bolt cutters cut fence?

Use Bolt Cutters

If unravelling the fence isn't enough, you can use a pair of bolt cutters as well. There are a variety of tools you can use to cut through a chain link fence. However, bolt cutters are one of the cheapest and easiest to use. Most DIYers can easily get their hands on a pair.

How do you break open a lock?

One of the easiest ways to break a padlock is with a hammer. Start by inserting 2 fingers into the padlock's shackle loop and pull up on the shackle to create tension. Then, tap the side of the lock that contains the fixed end of the shackle with a hammer using quick, short strikes.

What is a pair of bolt cutters?

A bolt cutter, sometimes called bolt cropper, is a tool used for cutting bolts, chains, padlocks, rebar and wire mesh. It typically has long handles and short blades, with compound hinges to maximize leverage and cutting force.

Can bolt cutters cut a bike lock?

Bolt cutters will easily cut through cable locks, but it's worth using a cable extension to deter chancers! So if you want your bike lock to put up a fight against bolt cutters, get one made with hardened steel, and get the thickest possible option.

Can bolt cutters break handcuffs?

Bolt Cutters

Ensure when you select a bolt cutter you pick one that is capable of cutting steel and always wear safety glasses while using this tool. The person who is handcuffed cannot use this tool on themselves, but the bolt cutter can safely be used to remove the wrist cuffs.

What size lock can bolt cutters cut?

What size of bolt cutters should you use to cut a padlock? A set of 24-inch bolt cutters can cut metal up to 7/16-inch in diameter, which will cut the bolts on most standard padlocks. For higher-quality padlocks that use a harder metal, use a 36-inch bolt cutter.

How do you break a lock with a screwdriver?

To unlock a privacy lock you'll need a flathead screwdriver that is small enough to fit into the hole on the doorknob. Insert your screwdriver into the hole and push forward. If your doorknob is using a push-button type privacy lock, then you should hear a loud click and the door will open.

Can a locksmith open a padlock?

Call a Locksmith

Locksmiths are more familiar with opening locks than just about anyone. Locksmiths are trained professionals in the creation, installation, and repair of locks. Most locksmiths will charge 50-100 dollars to come and fix a door lock, and less to open a padlock.

How do you cut off a rusted padlock?

How to Remove an Old, Rusted Lock
  1. Use the cloth to wipe debris off the lock.
  2. Lightly sand down the lock with your sandpaper. ...
  3. Spray WD-40 into the clasp holes and the key hole itself. ...
  4. Use your small hammer to strike the lock's surface lightly. ...
  5. Insert the key into the lock and lightly try to turn it.

How do you open a master lock if you lost the key?

Step-by-Step Processes
  1. Break the padlock with bolt cutters. This is a quick way that people use to open a standard master lock because the diameter of the shackle will not be too large to make it difficult to open. ...
  2. Open the lock with a grinding tool. ...
  3. Open the lock with a padlock shim. ...
  4. Pick the lock with a paperclip.

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