What are bump keys?

General Locksmith Posts

Written by :

Ollie

Bump keys are a type of lock-picking tool that have been gaining popularity among burglars in recent years. But what exactly are bump keys, and how do they work? In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of bump keys, their mechanism and how they are used for lock picking by both locksmiths and burglars.

Bump keys were originally developed as a method for locksmiths to open doors or locks with misplaced or broken keys. This technique is known as “lock bumping” and involves using a specially cut key that can be inserted into the lock and then “bumped” with a hammer to unlock it. The key is designed to fit all pin tumbler locks, which are the most common type of lock used in homes and businesses today.

The use of bump keys has become increasingly popular among burglars due to their ease of use and availability online. Anyone can buy bump keys online, making them an attractive option for criminals looking for quick access to properties without having to pick traditional locks. However, there are some potential security implications associated with the use of bump keys that homeowners should be aware of.

The main difference between conventional lock picking and the use of bump keys is that with conventional lock picking, you must insert each individual pin into the correct position in order to unlock the door. With bump keys, however, you only need one key that fits all pins in order to unlock the door. This makes it much easier for criminals to gain access to properties without having to pick each individual pin in a traditional lock-picking process.

Professional locksmiths also use bump keys in their work but typically follow different procedures than those used by burglars. Locksmiths will usually inspect the property before attempting to open any locks using a bump key so they can determine if any additional security measures have been taken such as deadbolts or other types of high-security locks that may require more sophisticated methods than simply using a bump key. Additionally, professional locksmiths will often take extra steps such as changing out all existing locks on a property after opening them with a bump key so that any potential security risks associated with its use are eliminated.

In conclusion, while there are some potential security risks associated with the use of bump keys, these risks can be mitigated by taking certain precautions such as changing out all existing locks on a property after opening them with a bump key or installing additional security measures such as deadbolts or high-security locks on entry points around your home or business premises. Additionally, it’s important to remember that professional locksmiths typically follow different procedures when using these tools than those used by burglars so it’s important to always hire qualified professionals when needing assistance with your locking systems.