I have a safe without the combination - how do I open it?
Either throw the safe away, or pay a safe expert to open it,
if anyone could get a quick
and easy way to open your safe just by sending an e-mail, your safe wouldn't
be worth much.
Should I bother with high security ("pick proof") locks and other security
enhancements for my home?
Why not? If you are installing locks,
the better quality ones are not much more expensive, and are physically
more secure (e.g., have hardened inserts to protect against drilling.)
However, note that protection against picking doesn't
add a large amount to your security since burglars almost always go the
brute force route. Regardless, you should have a deadbolt, and check your
window security.
An excellent project is to do a security survey of your own premises.
Look at the entire problem - consider lighting and visibility, as well
as the locks, doors and windows. Ask your insurance agent, you may be
eligible for a premium reduction if you make a few changes in your home
such as a) adding deadbolt locks, and b) installing smoke detectors and
fire extinguishers.
What is a code?
Ever see a lock on a desk,
filling cabinet, or a key with a number stamped on it like FR332, 2H5212,
or 61624? Those
are called codes. They tell locksmiths exactly how to cut a key to fit
the lock. There are three types of codes.
There are direct digit codes. Each digit corresponds to each cut on the key, the value of each digit tell how deep to make the cut. Schlage prints the code for the key directly on the key. These codes are usually long, each pin needs its own digit.
The second type in which each digit does not directly correspond to the depth, but there is a pattern between the code and the key. Often mathematical tricks are used (for example you must subtract 435 from the code, then cut the key).
The last type require a
locksmith to have a codebook. There is no pattern to the cuts on the keys.
The Reed Codebooks are one of the most common. There are 14 general volumes
(cars, cabinet, suit cases, door locks) and 5 padlock volumes. Each volume
is about 600 pages long. Several manufactures now selling computer programs
that contain all
this information.
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