Find an area on the shackle that you can easily maneuver a saw around. Amid the current public health and economic crises, when the world is shifting dramatically and we are all learning and adapting to changes in daily life, people need wikiHow more than ever. It features an anti-pick disc locking mechanism as well as a cloth sleeve made with a reflective material to further protect a bike. Angle grinders work best on padlocks or bike locks. Bolt cutters can also help these types of professionals cut through fencing, chains, security cages over windows, and much more. Place the jaws of the 42 inch bolt cutters around the shackle of the lock. The Oxford 16mm Nemesis Chain and Lock has 5/8 inches of Cromo hardened steel round shackle. So I devised a simple and cheap solution to prevent the use o… Grind the Disc Lock Down at its Weak Point Once you get the hang of this, you can simply look at the lock and start grinding at the weakest point. It is similar to a giant pair of pliers with sharp hardened steel jaws and uses the concept of compound leverage to do the job. Once a lock is cut, it’s permanently damaged. These are relatively expensive specialist tools, but will definitely do the job. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Be careful as the lock and the point will be very hot. There are a number of tools that you can use to cut off a lock depending upon how strong it is. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case there’s an accident. Having short blades and long handles with compound hinges allows maximum leverage and cutting force. Vise-grips can be purchased at your local hardware store. Croppers are a … They can also be used to cut live electric wire which makes them very useful in rescue operations. Simply clip off the lock's shackle to remove it. Make sure to replace it and keep the combination or key in a safe place. Step 4 Firmly press the bolt cutter handles together and slice through the right side of the U-shape on the padlock. Yes, I have done this before. Another option is to heat the shackle with a propane torch for about 3 minutes and then saw through it with a hacksaw. Large bolt cutters can get through thick pieces of metal, but sometimes you need a smaller bolt cutter for things like, well, bolts. Another option is to use a reciprocating Saw. A typical bolt cutter yields 20 kilonewtons (4,500 lb f) of cutting force for a 250 newtons (56 lb f) force on the handles. If you need to work somewhere without electricity or an outlet, buy a battery-powered grinder. The heat softens the metal and helps the saw teeth stay in place as you try to cut the lock. A reciprocating saw has a tough blade a bit like a jigsaw, and can be used to cut through the bolts on a lock. I lost the key, so how can I get it off? Bolt cutters work best on padlocks or chained bike locks. Even using the Plus latches that have the added thickness. It's one of those deadbolts that have the lock permanently attached to the bolt itself on the bottom part. This is a demonstration of how to use bolt cutters to cut off a lock. You can buy or rent a bolt cutter. How to Protect a Padlock: I’d recently added a dead bolt to my workshop for added protection against any would be thieves. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Cut-Locks-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Cut-Locks-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Cut-Locks-Step-1.jpg\/aid10355895-v4-728px-Cut-Locks-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Small bolt cutters that measure 8, 10-inch, 12-inch, or 14-inches in length are primarily designed to cut through thinner chains and prise off bolts that have a soft to medium hardness. But I realised this left the padlock out in the open ripe for being cut with bolt cutters. But with the arrival of COVID-19, the stakes are higher than ever. A2A To vary on Archimedes, long enough handles with blades strong and narrow enough, sure. Bolt cutters are the most common. Then we have the long extension cord and a grinder. In that situation you are left only with the option of cutting the lock off. Learned from a TV show, Burn Notice, that sometimes the best way is not to attack the point of strength, i.e. % of people told us that this article helped them. By either using bolt cutters, an angle grinder, or a hacksaw, you’ll be able to open most steel locks. Step 2 Every dollar contributed enables us to keep providing high-quality how-to help to people like you. When you have the option to cut the chain or padlock used in such a combination, cut the link of chain closest to the padlock using the bolt cutters. Is there a way to cut the wood around where the deadbolt slides into instead? These types of bolt cutters, like the superb Knipex Tools Bolt Cutters , are also very popular as they are strong, fit in tight, confined spots, and provide on-the-go portability. What tools do you need to break open a lock? With some practice you can get quite proficient. You can use this tool on the shackle or on an attached cable. This enables the property owner to later use his key to unlock the undamaged padlock and pull the slack from the chain to secure the lock to the next available link. They come in different sizes depending on the diameter of the bolt or rod being cut. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. If you’re working in a shop, clamp the lock inside of a vise instead. If you can’t cut through the lock yourself, ask a friend to help you close the bolt cutters. There are a few different tools you can use to cut off a lock. Using this type of saw generates a lot of heat, so always be sure to wear safety goggles before you attempt to cut the lock. Hold your angle grinder a few inches away from the U-lock and turn it on. If this doesn't work, proceed to the next step. This kind of situation only leaves you with one option, which is cutting the lock. For tips on how to cut a lock using heat and a hacksaw, read on! Bolt croppers are designed for cutting wire, chains, padlocks and bolts. Spin the handle on the vise to close it around the lock. If you fail to cut the point off, and it's attached slightly at the center of the lock you can use a cheap set of bolt cutters to grab and twist in order to remove it. Make sure to put on gloves and a face shield first, since grinders can produce sparks. For the best results, hire services from a professional locksmith in Tulsa. If you're strong enough, they may be able to cut through. It can be safely used to cut through rusted bolts that can't be removed otherwise. Yes, bolt cutters are an effective tool you can use to cut off a lock. Cutting torches can generate flames of up to 4000 degrees, so it’s wise to protect both your hands and face if you’re considering using this method to cut open your lock. Use a grinding wheel that will cut stainless steel. Use a sizeable bolt cutter to cut through the round lock. VULCAN Security Chain and Lock Kit - Premium Case-Hardened - 3/8 Inch x 9 Foot Chain Cannot Be Cut with Bolt Cutters or Hand Tools 4.9 out of 5 stars 165 $174.99 $ 174 . Tolsen Bolt Cutters Heavy Duty, 36-Inch Bolt Cutter for Padlocks, Lock Cutter Heavy Duty Chain, Rods, Rivets, Locks and Wire Cutter - Ergonomic Non-Slip Handle Bolt Cutter - 36 Bolt Cutter 4.6 out of 5 stars 16 Squeeze the grips of the bolt cutters together until they cut through the shackle. Larger pairs of bolt cutters can cut through locks with a larger diameter. 4. Most padlocks can be removed with a pair of bolt cutters. Cutting through a bolt may seem daunting but, by following some simple instructions, you can use your Dremel, a mandrel and a cutting wheel to safely and quickly complete this project. Re: A better way to cut locks --We lug bolt cutters with us for locks that can be cut with bolt cutters. Angle grinders grind through the lock, but using this type of tool generates a lot of sparks, so you must protect your eyes with goggles before attempting to cut the lock. Don’t use your bare hands to hold the lock since you could burn yourself. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. You can find them at Lowes. You can try the steps in the article, and if you have trouble, then you can contact a locksmith to remove the lock for you. Use your Dremel to cut off rusty bolts. However, bolt cutters that are at least 24 in (61 cm) long will allow you to put more leverage on the shackle of the lock. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case. I don't know how to get that deadbolt off and I need to get back in there. If the lock is made of hardened steel, bolt cutters may not work. This should fall off in a matter of minutes especially when used effectively. Put the cutters around the … Then, simply remove the lock. To cut a lock, all you need is a pair of bolt cutters. If the cutting wheel becomes too small during the cutting process, replace it with a new one. Bolt cutters or bolt croppers are used to cut through heavy metal. If you are unsure, then you should call a locksmith professional. There are a few supplies from the local hardware store that helps you break through the lock and gets you whatever access you need of. Last Updated: December 20, 2019 This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Use gloves to handle it or let it cool down first. It’s a convenient handheld tool that can be used with one hand and kept in a pocket. All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 67,026 times. Place the tool on the lock as you exert force to let it perform its function. The cutter doesn't cut, it brakes the harden steel. If you’re looking to purchase bolt cutters to cut open a lock, then you should consider buying ones with long handles, as this gives you more leverage for greater power, making the lock easier to break. All of us have at one time lost a key to a lock, well now you can remove the lock with bolt cutters. My lock is a lock that says it can't be cut off. Larger pairs of bolt cutters can cut through locks with a larger diameter. Hold your angle grinder using both hands at an angle of 15-30 degrees. Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. First soften the steel by heating it with any commonly available butane gas torch till red hot, then let it cool down slowly by air cool method and don't ever use water or oil as that will harden the steel. For example: • Locks on sheds and outhouses can rust and become difficult to open. It can also be used to cut threaded rods, chains and wires. Make sure there are no flammable objects near you or in the room since a spark could ignite them. Aim to get cutters 24 inches (61 cm) long or larger since they will give you the most leverage as you try to cut through the lock. Visit your local hardware store to see their selection of bolt cutters. Hold the lock at an angle as you cut through it, which will make the cutting process easier. If you want to try to cut open the lock itself, cut the shackle. Regardless if you are searching for a padlock to protect your gate, look up your motorcycle or just to provide more security for your bicycle-one thing is certain you should be on the lookout for the best padlock on the market. By using our site, you agree to our. There are two choices. Work in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials. You can also invest in harder blades for whichever bolt cutters you have. 3 Cut through the U-lock with the … As you can see, exploiting the weakest point of the disc lock requires an angled cut. Step 1: Using bolt cutters to cut a lock Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. This bolt-cutter proof lock is 2 1/8 inches tall inside and 1 1/2-inches wide. Capri Tools Klinge Mini Bolt Cutter. Be aware of any fire risks. Once the grinder is turned on, just apply some pressure and it will cut through the lock. If you’re working at home, use an angle grinder that plugs into the wall. The trick to cutting a lock with bolt cutters is to have the longest handles possible on the bolt cutters. Bolt cutters are really nothing more than a large pair of scissors, but they do require a little elbow grease to break through the lock. These heavy duty tools are useful for cutting locks, chains, fences and bolts. However, if the lock is made of galvanized or hardened steel, the bolt cutters may not be able to penetrate the shackle. Close the cutters to attempt to cut the shackle off of the lock. IT would be easier to unscrew the latch. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an accident. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. You can also try hitting it from the top down with a hammer. Bolt cutters are really nothing more than a large pair of scissors, but they do require a little elbow grease to break through the lock. Luckily, with a few supplies from your local hardware store, you can break through the lock to access what you need.