Some people believe that a craftsman toolbox lock is just another lock that prevents your tools from being stolen. This might be true to some extent, but there’s more than meets the eye with these types of locks.
Craftsman locks are explicitly designed for opening and closing quickly. In addition, they don’t require too much torque or force to open them up, so they’re ideal for those with arthritis or any other condition, making using regular keys difficult.
The ones we carry here at Locksmith DC also come in different sizes, so you can pick one that will fit perfectly into your existing box! So, this article is for you. You will learn how to pick a craftsman toolbox lock with just one simple trick!
Step to Follow on how to pick a craftsman toolbox lock
Step One: Determine
Determine which type of cam you have. Craftsman mostly has one of two types of cams: standard and pop-out. A standard cam uses a brake-like mechanism that holds the tools in place inside the box and can only be released by rotating your key just the right way.
The pop-out mechanism is like a flap on top of the box that lifts like the lid on a traditional toolbox to release your tools. However, a pop-out cam is more susceptible to a bump key attack, so it might be better to invest in a padlock or high-security box if your cam is pop-out.
Step Two: Preparation
When it comes to picking your box, it’s best first to prepare a few things in advance. You will want a key that fits your lock and at least one bump key. If you don’t have an extra key and can’t borrow one for this purpose, don’t worry: you can still do this with just a single bump key.
If you have a bump key, you will also want to prepare some string or wire. The size of the wire you use depends on how big of a gap your lock has between the body and the case, but it should be fine if you stick to something on the smaller side of the spectrum.
Step Three: Pick Your Lock
The first step is to pick your lock using either the tension wrench or the bump key. Once you’ve done this, make sure you can turn the cam with your key; if not, go back and try again. The trickiest part of this process is getting to know how each type of scam works so you can pick the lock successfully.
A standard cam is the easier of the two, but it’s also more susceptible to bump-key attacks. A pop-out cam is trickier to pick because it requires rotating your key in a very specific pattern. If this is your first time picking a craftsman toolbox lock, it’s best to use the bump key.
Step Four: Glide the Bump Key
With your bump key in hand, glide it along the seam on top of the toolbox where you think there might be a pin. There are three slots on each side, so find one slot and slip your wire or string underneath. You will want to make sure that there are at least six inches on either side of the bump key as you do this.
Now apply a little pressure to each slot as if you were bumping the pins inside the lock. If you feel a small click, try your key and see if it opens. If not, try another slot until you find the one that works. Once you have found it, keep applying pressure to the bump key just before holding the pins in place while you turn your key.
Step Five: Open Your Toolbox
Once all of your pins are set with the bump key, try turning your key just like you did when picking the lock. The pins should all click into place one by one, and you can open your toolbox in no time. If not, go back and try again with a different slot.
If this doesn’t work for you, you might have a pop-out cam on your hands, making bumping slightly more complicated. You will still need to hold your bump key while applying pressure with your thumb on the pop-out cam. Once all of the pins are set, use a pick to push up and release the lock just like you did with a standard cam.
Step Six: Wrap It Up
With your lock bound, you can start organizing your tools in no time. The only thing left to do is remove the string or wire holding all of the pins in place and close up your box. No matter what kind of cam it has, this should take no longer than five minutes.
This will work for nearly any standard toolbox, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your tools. If you want extra security, consider adding some additional locks to your box for more protection. The use of the proper knowledge will allow you to do it yourself while saving money.
Remember that while this is an effective way to pick craftsman toolbox locks, it’s also illegal in some areas. If you can find a key or borrow one, then there shouldn’t be any need to resort to this method. However, with the help of this article, you should know how to pick a craftsman toolbox lock and save yourself some time and money.
You Can Check It Out to Pick a Trunk Lock
Conclusion
To pick a craftsman toolbox lock, you need to find the right screwdriver size and insert it into the holes on either side of the locks. Next, insert your fingers in between each hole and twist simultaneously so that they meet together. Once this is done correctly, turn one direction until there is enough space for you to slip a credit card or similar item under them to pry open from opposite sides.
This may take some practice before you get used to how much pressure needs applying when opening these locks. To do this, turn in one direction and keep the pressure steady. This will give you the knowledge of how to pick a craftsman toolbox lock and save some time and money when replacing lost keys for these common types of locks.
You may also read – How to pick a steamer trunk lock
