If there are lockers at school with a combination lock, you will probably need to learn how to open them quickly. Don't worry: it's easier with practice. Here's how to open 99% of standard padlocks. (Note: Some locks may be different or difficult and may not open despite the explanations.)
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Open Knowing the Combination
Step 1. Turn the knob at least three times to the right (clockwise), all the way
This "clears" any previous combinations. If you are wrong while entering the combination, repeat this step and start over.
Step 2. Choose the combination
Turn right and stop at the first number. Always start with a right turn!
-
For the second number, turn left, pass the zero and the first number. Stop at the second.
Some lockers are a little weird - if your lock doesn't open after entering your three numbers correctly, turn left passing the second number once and stop on the next turn
- For the third number, turn right and go directly to the number. Leave the numerator in this position. Always remember: right, left, right.
Step 3. Open
Pull the lock and pull it out of its hole or pull the lock handle.
-
If the locker doesn't open, try again with 5 as the number after what is officially your last number. Sometimes older locks get stuck.
If that doesn't work, ask your peers or teacher if anyone has similar problems. Try twice before calling the teacher though
Step 4. Close after use
Make sure you close the lock properly once you have done everything. Otherwise you could be stolen.
Close the lock and turn the bezel - if you leave it on the last number, it could reopen effortlessly (for those who try)
Method 2 of 2: Open Without Remembering the Combination
Step 1. Apply upward pressure
Take your fingers and wrap them around the snap lock. It should rise slightly upward when closed.
As you do this, turn the bezel counterclockwise. It will take some strength but you won't break it
Step 2. Write down the numbers that block it
Repeat this action 11 times. 7 of the numbers you find will be two digits, ignore them. Continue with the 5 solitaires. Of these 5, one shouldn't end with the same digit. That will be your "third number".
Obviously it is very important to know exactly where the lock is locked. Be diligent and pay attention
Step 3. Use the 'trial and error' criterion
You will have about 100 possible combinations to try, so you will have to work a quarter of an hour. The third number actually allows you to eliminate a possible first and second number whether you believe it or not. It may take a while but with perseverance, you will be able to open the lock.
-
If the third number is 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, or 36:
- The first number is 0, 4, 8, 12, 20, 24, 28, 32, or 36.
- The second number is 0, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, or 38.
-
If the third number is 1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, or 37:
- The first number is 1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, or 37.
- The second number is 1, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27, 31, 35, or 39.
-
If the third number is 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, or 38:
- The first number is 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, or 38.
- The second number is 2, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, or 0.
-
If the third number is 3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27, 31, 35, or 39:
- The first number is 3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27, 31, 35, or 39.
- The third number is 3, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, 37, or 1.
Advice
- Memorize the combination. If you choose to write it, do it in a safe or hidden place. Don't put it where you keep the locker number.
- If nothing seems to work ask for help. You may have a faulty lock.
- When you are done removing books and whatnot, close the locker, lock the lock and set it to zero.
- Combination locks have little tricks that will help you. Sometimes you don't have to match exactly one number but only the neighboring one.
- Read the lock instructions, in case it works differently than most.
- Find out if you need to bring your own padlock. In that case, practice opening it at home.
- Some locks are complicated. You may need to pull hard, lean against the locker, or shake the lock itself to get it to open.
Warnings
- Don't leave valuables in the locker. It is suitable for keeping gymnastics stuff but not safe for the rest.
- Don't be disheartened. Frustration won't help you open the locker.
