5 DIY Methods for Broken Key Extraction
We are continuing from our last post on how to extract broken keys from their locks.
Method 1: Clamp and Drag
This involves pieces of thin metal. The trick is to use both metals to clamp the side of the key in contact with the warding and not the smooth side. The metal pieces have to be thin enough to permit this access. When you have successfully clamped the key. Slowly pull it towards you. This works slowly, so you’ll have to do it bit by bit. Clamp, drag, clamp and drag again. The process is repeated until the piece is pulled out enough to be removed.
Another method involving the use of two metal pieces is the prying method. You can place both pieces into the keyhole, hold the key in place, turn your wrists inward and try sliding the key out.
Method 2: Use of Tweezers
That’s probably your go to. But you have to consider the size of our tweezers, and how far in the broken piece is. If the tweezers are too big for the lock, you’ll end up pushing the key piece farther in. How far can your tweezers open? They should open wide enough to go around the key. The should also be thin enough to get into the keyhole. Tweezers should only be used if a part of the broken key is outside the keyhole if no you’ll end up pushing the key farther into the keyhole.
Do not attempt this method if you haven’t ticked all the boxes.
Method 3: Using a Jigsaw Blade
You’ll need a small jigsaw blade and a needle nose plier to break the blade. Using this jigsaw blade would be effective because of the serrated edges ( toothlike projections). The serrations on this blade could be at an angle, so it would be best to insert it into the keyhole with the teeth pointing towards you. This allows for easy entry into the keyhole. Just make sure you insert the blade along the bitings on the key. With a little twist, the blade will hook the key, and when you pull it, the broken piece comes out with it. This is not guaranteed to work on the first try. So be ready to repeat the process.
Method 4: Strike the Lock
This works especially when the key got broken in a padlock. You can easily face the padlock downwards and strike it with a tool. The gravity pull may cause the broken key piece to slip down. If it’s a lock and you are able to get the cylinder out try this method. Hold the cylinder still facing the key downwards and tap the cylinder, if the key doesn’t slip out, consider applying more force, maybe using a hammer. But be careful not to damage the lock. If you do, have a locksmith repair it.
Method 5: Using a Broken Key Extractor
Now, this is a professional way to handle this situation. But you need to have an extractor to apply this method. Broken key extractors come in variations. But you could just go for a single hooked extractor or a double hooked extractor. The aim is to hook the extractor to the key serrations. So place it in the keyhole to align with the key teeth. Then turn even slightly and pull. If properly hooked it should remove the key. But again, do not expect to get this on the first try, you may need to repeat the process.
There you have it, 5 DIY methods for broken key extraction. At least one of these methods should help you extract the key especially when you cannot get to a locksmith. You just need the right materials and calm and steady fingers, you’ll be fine. Do not forget, be patient don’t hurry. Hurrying does more harm as it wastes your time. Just keep your wits about you, be calm and get that broken key out. If you want to find out more about this topic, call us today.