4 Easy Steps to Drill Through a Lock

Drill through a lock

Breaking into a locked door can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s possible to drill through a lock and gain entry without damaging the door or frame. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to drill through a lock, including the necessary tools, safety precautions, and potential pitfalls to watch out for.

Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a drill with a metal-cutting bit, a safety mask, earplugs, and a center punch (optional). Safety is paramount, so remember to wear gloves and eye protection throughout the process. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the drilling, and ensure that the drill’s power cord is not frayed or damaged.

Now that you’re prepared with the right gear, it’s time to begin. Start by locating the keyhole on the lock. If the keyhole is obstructed by dirt or debris, use a toothpick or a small brush to clear it. Next, insert the center punch into the keyhole and gently tap it with a hammer to create a small indentation. This indentation will help guide the drill bit and prevent it from slipping. Once the indentation is made, attach the metal-cutting bit to the drill and secure it tightly.

Gathering the Necessary Tools

Drilling through a lock requires a specific set of tools to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items you’ll need:

1. Power Drill

The primary tool for drilling is a power drill. Choose a cordless model with sufficient power and runtime to handle the task. Consider using a drill with a variable speed setting to allow for precise control during different stages of drilling.

For drilling through locks, you’ll need a drill bit specifically designed for metalworking. Carbide-tipped or hardened steel bits are recommended for optimal durability and performance. Select a bit size slightly smaller than the lock cylinder, typically around 1/8 to 1/4 inch.

To protect the drill bit and ensure it stays centered, use a pilot hole bit. Pilot hole bits have a tapered end that creates a small starting hole for the larger drill bit to follow. This helps prevent the drill bit from wandering or bending while drilling.

Recommended Drill Bit Options
Bit Type	Size Range
Carbide-Tipped	1/8 – 1/4 inch
Hardened Steel	1/8 – 1/4 inch
Pilot Hole Bit	Slightly smaller than lock cylinder

Positioning and Setting Up the Drill

Once you have selected the right drill bit and drill, it’s time to position and set up the drill. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Position the Drill Bit

Hold the drill securely in one hand and the drill bit in the other hand.
Align the drill bit with the center of the lock cylinder.
Gently press the drill bit against the lock cylinder until it starts to grip.

2. Secure the Drill

Use a vise or clamps to secure the lock in place. This will prevent it from moving while you’re drilling.
If you don’t have a vise or clamps, you can also use a piece of wood or metal to support the lock.
Make sure that the lock is positioned so that the drill bit will be able to drill through the center of the cylinder.

3. Set the Drill Speed

The ideal drill speed for drilling through locks is around 1,000 RPM.
If your drill has a variable speed setting, set it to the lowest speed that will allow the drill bit to cut through the lock.
If your drill does not have a variable speed setting, use the lowest speed that is available.

4. Use a Drill Bit Guide

A drill bit guide can help you keep the drill bit centered and prevent it from wandering.
If you have a drill bit guide, attach it to the drill bit and then insert the drill bit into the lock cylinder.
The drill bit guide will help you to keep the drill bit in the center of the cylinder as you drill.

5. Start Drilling

Once you have the drill positioned and secured, start drilling slowly and carefully.
Apply gentle pressure to the drill and let the drill bit do the work.
As you drill, keep the drill bit centered in the lock cylinder and avoid applying too much pressure.

Initiating the Drilling Process

Commencing the drilling procedure requires meticulous preparation and understanding. Follow these steps to ensure a successful outcome:

1. Safety First

Don your protective eyewear and gloves to safeguard yourself from metal shavings and accidental slips. Secure the lock in a vice or clamp to prevent it from moving during drilling.

2. Determine the Lock Type

Identifying the type of lock you’re dealing with is crucial. Different lock mechanisms require specific drill bits and techniques. Examine the lock’s design, keyhole shape, and any visible indicators to determine its type.

3. Select the Appropriate Drill Bit and Speed

Choosing the right drill bit and speed is essential for efficient drilling and minimizing damage to the lock. Refer to the following table for recommended drill bit sizes and speeds for various lock types:

Lock Type	Drill Bit Size (mm)	Drill Speed (RPM)
Pin Tumbler Lock	5-6	250-500
Wafer Lock	4-5	200-400
Levers Lock	6-8	300-600
Padlock	6-8	250-500

TIP: Use a small drill bit to create a pilot hole before using a larger bit to reduce the chance of drill bit breakage.

4. Start Drilling

Position the drill perpendicular to the keyhole and apply gentle pressure. Allow the drill to pierce the metal slowly and steadily. Avoid excessive force, as this could damage the lock irreparably.

Safely Removing the Lock Cylinder

Drilling through a lock is a delicate process that requires precision and safety. Once you’ve drilled through the lock, it’s time to safely remove the lock cylinder. Here’s how to do it:

1. Secure the Lock

Place the lock in a vise or clamp to prevent it from moving while you work.

2. Find the Shear Line

Identify the shear line, which is a small notch or line on the lock cylinder where the key engages. This line indicates where you need to split the cylinder.

3. Split the Cylinder

Using a cold chisel or hacksaw, carefully split the cylinder along the shear line. Be cautious not to damage the lock body.

4. Remove the Cylinder Halves

Once the cylinder is split, gently remove the two halves. Be aware that there may be springs or pins inside the cylinder that could dislodge. To avoid losing these components, do the following:

a. Use a Magnet

Hold a magnet over the cylinder to catch any loose metal parts.

b. Place a Cloth Underneath

Spread a cloth underneath the lock to collect any small pieces that fall out.

c. Vacuum the Interior

After removing the cylinder, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining debris or loose parts.

5. Clean and Inspect

Clean the inside of the lock body and inspect it for any damage. If necessary, replace any damaged parts before installing a new lock cylinder.

Inserting the New Lock Cylinder

5. Measure and Cut the New Lock Cylinder

To ensure a proper fit, it’s crucial to measure and cut the new lock cylinder accurately. Follow these steps:

Inspect the old cylinder: Remove the retaining ring and note its position.
Measure the cylinder face: Measure the distance from the retaining ring groove to the end of the cylinder that enters the door.
Measure the cylinder body: Measure the distance from the end of the cylinder that enters the door to the other end.
Locate the keyway: Rotate the new cylinder until the keyway aligns with the keyway on the door’s lockset.
Mark the cut point: Measure and mark the cylinder body to indicate the length of the cylinder that should enter the door (as measured in step 2).
Add approximately 0.125 to 0.25 inches (3 to 6 mm) to the measurement for clearance.
Cut the cylinder: Use a hacksaw or pipe cutter to cut the cylinder at the marked point.

Additional Tips:

* For double-sided cylinders (keys on both sides), cut the cylinder in half at the midpoint.
* Use a cutting guide or make precise measurements to ensure a clean and accurate cut.
* Lubricate the cylinder before inserting it to reduce friction and wear.

Once the new cylinder is cut to the correct length, you can proceed to insert it into the lockset.

Reinstalling the Lock Housing

1. Place the lock housing against the door frame, aligning it with the mounting holes.

2. Insert the screws into the mounting holes and gently tighten them into place.

3. Use a screwdriver to fully tighten the screws until the lock housing is securely attached to the door frame.

4. Check the operation of the lock to ensure that it is properly aligned and functioning smoothly.

5. Reinstall the strike plate on the door jamb, aligning it with the latch and deadbolt.

6. Adjust the strike plate as needed to ensure that the latch and deadbolt align and engage securely with the lock housing.

Strike Plate Adjustment	Procedure
Vertical Alignment	Adjust the height of the strike plate to ensure that the latch engages the strike plate at the center of its opening.
Horizontal Alignment	Adjust the left or right position of the strike plate to ensure that the deadbolt fully extends into the strike plate.
Depth	Adjust the depth of the strike plate to ensure that the latch fully engages and the deadbolt extends flush with the face of the door jamb.

7. Once the strike plate is properly adjusted, tighten the screws to secure it to the door jamb.

8. Test the lock operation again to ensure that it is securely installed and functioning properly.

9. Lubricate the lock mechanism with a dry graphite lubricant to improve its operation and extend its lifespan.

Securing the Lock with Screws

To ensure the lock remains secure and prevent it from being easily removed, follow these detailed steps:

1. Check Screw Length:

Before drilling, measure the thickness of the door or object where the lock will be installed. Choose screws that are slightly longer than the measured thickness to ensure they penetrate the material securely.

2. Identify Screw Placement:

Determine the optimal placement for the screws based on the lock’s design and the material it’s being attached to. Avoid areas with wires, pipes, or other obstacles.

3. Mark Screw Holes:

Use a pencil or marking tool to lightly mark the spots where the screws will be inserted. This will serve as a guide for precise drilling.

4. Drill Pilot Holes:

Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws, carefully drill pilot holes at the marked locations. The pilot holes should be deep enough to penetrate the material and accommodate the entire screw length.

5. Insert Screws:

Align the screws with the pilot holes and insert them using a screwdriver. Ensure the screws are tightened snugly but avoid overtightening.

6. Countersink Screw Heads (Optional):

For a flush and aesthetically pleasing finish, you can countersink the screw heads slightly below the surface of the material using a countersink bit.

7. Double-Check Tightness:

Once all screws are inserted, double-check their tightness using a screwdriver. This ensures the lock is securely fastened and cannot be easily loosened or removed.

Screw Size	Pilot Hole Size	Recommended Material
#6	1/16″	Wood, Metal, Plastic
#8	5/32″	Wood, Metal, Plastic
#10	3/16″	Wood, Metal, Plastic

Testing the New Lock

After drilling through the lock, it’s important to test the new lock to ensure it’s working correctly. Here’s a detailed guide on how to test the new lock:

1. Insert the Key:

Insert the key into the new lock and turn it gently to the locked position. The key should turn smoothly and without any resistance.

2. Try to Open the Door:

While holding the key in the locked position, try to open the door. The door should remain firmly locked and resist any attempts to force it open.

3. Turn the Key to the Unlocked Position:

Turn the key to the unlocked position. The door should now unlock easily and swing open smoothly.

4. Check the Deadbolt:

If the lock has a deadbolt, engage the deadbolt and try to open the door. The deadbolt should secure the door firmly, making it impossible to open without the key.

5. Repeat the Process:

Repeat the testing process several times to ensure consistent performance and functionality of the new lock.

6. Lubricate the Lock:

Apply a small amount of graphite powder or lock lubricant to the keyhole and key to ensure smooth operation and prevent future problems.

7. Inspect the Strike Plate:

Check the alignment of the strike plate (the metal plate that receives the deadbolt or latch) to ensure it’s properly installed and provides secure locking.

8. Additional Testing Considerations:

Test the Lock Under Extreme Conditions: Expose the lock to extreme temperatures, rain, or snow to ensure it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Check the Security of the Screws: Tighten the screws that secure the lock and strike plate to prevent any attempts to tamper with it.
Test the Lock Regularly: Periodically test the lock to identify any potential issues early on and ensure ongoing reliability.

Troubleshooting Potential Issues

9. Drill Won’t Penetrate Metal

Possible Causes:

Wrong drill bit: Ensure you have a carbide drill bit for metal.
Dull drill bit: Replace the bit with a sharp one.
Incorrect drilling angle: Hold the drill straight perpendicular to the lock face.
Hardened steel lock: Some locks have hardened steel inserts that require special drill bits.
Faulty drill: Check if the drill is functioning properly.

Solutions:

Use the correct drill bit for the metal type you are drilling.
Sharpen or replace the drill bit as needed.
Apply even pressure and hold the drill at a 90-degree angle.
Consider using a specialty drill bit for hardened steel locks.
Test the drill on a scrap piece of metal to rule out any malfunction.

Additional Safety Considerations

When drilling through a lock, it is important to take additional safety precautions to ensure your own safety and the safety of those around you. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Eye Protection

Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying metal chips and other debris. Safety glasses should be ANSI-approved and fit snugly against your face to provide adequate protection.

2. Hand Protection

Wear work gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions. Choose gloves made of a durable material, such as leather or Kevlar, that can withstand the rigors of drilling.

3. Respiratory Protection

If you are drilling in an enclosed space, wear a dust mask or respirator to protect your lungs from inhaling harmful particles. Dust masks should be NIOSH-approved and fit snugly against your face.

4. Electrical Safety

Before drilling, ensure that the power to the lock is turned off. If you are drilling near any electrical wires, take precautions to avoid accidental contact and electrical shock.

5. Fire Safety

Drilling through metal can generate sparks. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies. Never drill near flammable materials or liquids.

6. Noise Protection

Drilling can be noisy. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from excessive noise levels.

7. Vibration Protection

Extended use of a drill can cause vibration-related injuries. Take breaks throughout the drilling process to minimize the risk of these injuries.

8. Proper Ventilation

If you are drilling indoors, ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of dust and fumes.

9. Stable Work Surface

Use a stable work surface to prevent the drill from slipping or falling. Secure the lock firmly to the work surface using a clamp or vise.

10. Emergency Preparedness

Be prepared for emergencies by having a first-aid kit and emergency contact information readily available. In case of an accident, seek medical attention promptly.

How to Drill Through a Lock

Drilling through a lock is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it’s important to take precautions to ensure that you do not damage the lock or the surrounding area.

To drill through a lock, you will need the following:

A drill
A drill bit
A lock vise
Safety glasses

Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:

Put on your safety glasses.
Clamp the lock into the lock vise.
Choose a drill bit that is the same size as the diameter of the lock cylinder.
Drill a hole through the center of the lock cylinder.
Once the hole is drilled, the lock should be open.

If you are unable to drill through the lock, it may be necessary to use a different method to open it.