You can use a variety of tools to break the lock, including a Dremel and angle grinder. Alternatively, you can cut the lock open with a torch or cut it with a hacksaw. Some cheaper padlocks can be pounded or pried open with a hammer.
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.
Look for appropriate bolt cutters that could cut the lock. Place the blades in the shackle of the lock and position the bolt near your waist. Hold tightly on the grips of the cutters and squeeze the handles until you successfully cut the shackle.
If you misplace your key or forget the combination to a lock, you may need to cut through the lock to get it back. Most steel locks can be opened by either using bolt cutters, an angle grinder, or a hacksaw.
A reciprocating saw is a saw with a blade that moves back and forth in front of the saw. Equipped with a metal grinding blade, this reciprocating saw can be used to cut through the bolts on the lock. Always wear safety goggles and a face mask while sawing metal to prevent metal dust from getting in your eyes or lungs.
Another handy way to cut a lock is to use a dremel tool. With a dremel, you will need a cutoff wheel, which is quite similar to that of an angle grinder. The best dremel tool usually is smaller than an angle grinder.
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.
Turns out, any Master Lock can easily be broken into with just a small hammer. As this video illustrates, all you need to do is tap the side of a Master Lock with a hammer to get it to open, no key, no combination required.
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.
No, you can't cut a lock off of a storage unit. It's against our policies and, frankly, could cost you a lot more than just the cost of a new lock. (Especially if you accidentally damage the storage unit's door.)
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.
To do this, unfold the large edge of your paperclip twice until a straight portion juts out. You will be inserting the straight part into the lock to use as a pick. Some locksmiths also put a tiny upward bend into the tip of the pick. This is to depress the pins inside the lock but is not strictly necessary.
Try bolt cutters.
This will not work on most master locks, as they are made of case hardened steel.
Ideal choices include a small screwdriver or hex wrench, a hair pin, or a heavy-duty paperclip. You can even use a bamboo skewer from the kitchen, or a cotton swab with the fluff removed from one end. If using a hair pin or paper clip, first bend it open so you have a long, straight bit of metal.
Metal Types a Dremel Can Cut
As a general rule, sheet metal refers to steel, either galvanized or stainless. This metal is safe to cut with most commercially available cutting tools such as Dremel attachments.
The beauty of the Dremel 3000 is in its versatility. From cutting metal with Dremel tools, to engraving it and polishing it, a rotary hand tool can become an indispensable part of your jewellery tool kit.
Disc locks cannot be removed with bolt cutters because the hasp (or the U-shaped part of a padlock) cannot be reached. A disc lock cannot be broken apart with a hammer, either, as a padlock or keyless lock could be.