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How To Pick An Antique Door Lock

Antique door locks are not just hardware but a part of your house’s curb appeal. Whether you’re a collector, a restoration enthusiast, or just want to save it, picking an antique door lock requires a light touch and specialized knowledge. At Sure Lock & Key, we understand the importance of preserving these old mechanisms while providing access. This guide will walk you through picking an antique door lock with patience, precision, and respect for the lock’s history. We’ll cover the tools, techniques, and safety precautions so you can open these locks without damaging them. Remember, while this guide is helpful, always consult a professional locksmith when dealing with valuable or delicate antique locks. Reach out to Sure Lock & Key to get expert assistance and open your lock effortlessly!

Understanding Antique Lock Mechanisms

Antique door locks come in many designs, each reflecting the technology and craftsmanship of the time. Before picking an antique lock, you need to understand its mechanism. Most antique locks fall into categories such as warded, lever, or pin tumbler locks.
Warded locks were common in the 18th and 19th centuries and used a set of obstructions (wards) that the key must navigate around to turn. These can be picked with a skeleton key or a set of picks for warded locks.
Lever locks became popular in the late 19th century. They use a series of levers that must be lifted to the correct height for the bolt to move. These locks are more difficult to pick and often require specialized tools.
Pin tumbler locks, similar to modern locks but with simpler designs, have been around since ancient Egypt but became popular in the late 19th century. They use a series of pins that must be aligned correctly for the cylinder to turn.
Antique Door Lock
Knowing what type of lock you’re dealing with is the first step in picking it. Examine the keyhole shape and any visible parts of the lock mechanism. Research the lock’s manufacturer and era to understand its design, if possible. This will guide your tool and technique and increase your chances of success while minimizing damage to the antique lock.
Antique Door Lock

Essential Tools and Techniques

If you detect which type of antique lock you are dealing with, then it is time to learn more about the required toolkit and special techniques. Below, we have collected some tips on how to open an ancient door lock.
One of the easiest ways, of course, is to dismantle the door knob. That requires special tools and skills if you want to avoid damaging the antique door. It is advisable to contact a specialist to manage everything carefully. However, if you still intend to do it yourself, here are some tips:
  • Use a screwdriver. To safely remove the doorknob, take a screwdriver and remove the set screw located at the base of the handle. After that, easily turn the handle and remove it from the spindle. Next, you need to remove the spindle and release it from the hole by pulling the handle. Then remove the lock housing by removing the two screws on the front. This will allow you to get to the lock mechanism and dismantle it.
  • With a paperclip. In general, doors with door handles of this type are not too difficult to open. Therefore, an ordinary paper clip might help you solve the problem. Take a paper clip and insert it into the hole inside the handle. Then, try to find the reset button inside the mechanism and press it.
An Ancient Door Lock
  • Use a credit card. To do this, take a flexible credit or discount card (please, don’t use anything valuable because your improvised tool might end up being bent), stand in front of the door, and grab the handle. Rotate the handle as if you want to open it as usual. Then, slide the card between the door and the jamb. Next, using rocking movements, try to insert the card next to the latch and free it from the locking part. Continue until the door opens.
  • Rekeying. If your door is equipped with an antique skeleton key lock, the easiest way to open it without damage is to simply replace the key. If you don’t want to waste your time doing this, you can always call our locksmiths and have the problem resolved.
An Ancient Door Lock

Summing up

Picking an antique door lock is a skill that combines historical knowledge, mechanical understanding, and fine handwork. While this guide gives you an overview of the process, always approach each antique lock cautiously and precisely. If you’re unsure about picking a particular lock or if it’s a valuable antique, always consult a professional locksmith experienced in vintage locks. At Sure Lock & Key, we preserve the integrity of antique locks while providing access. Our list of residential locksmith services covers everything – from lock repair to installation, so you can be sure that the effective solution is only a call away. Contact us now to gain access while saving the initial appearance and functionality of your antique lock.

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