If the instruction above seems quite simple and motivates you to try it out, take your time, as it might fail to be successful. The first obstacle is that the hack may work only on the lockset and spring-loaded latches. It doesn’t work on deadbolts, as they have more complex mechanisms and strictly require a key or thumb turn to be opened. That’s why you may apply this trick mainly on minor doors that don’t have other security features.
Second, you may perform this hack only if you’re at the side of the door where it opens to the outside. The main reason is that you need to push the door a little during the opening process, and it’s easy to do only on this particular side. Third, the trick may be successful only when the sloped side of the bolt faces you directly. This way, you will be able to slide the card along the bolt’s sharp end.
Talking about the credit card, take into account that it will be inapplicable after use. So, before performing this tricky thing, consider whether it’s better to take your regular card or call a local locksmith. However, you may also carry a faulty card in your wallet for these cases.
What are the main disadvantages of the card door-opening method? First, regarding the information above, it might not work on every lock. In addition, a card may break in the process if it’s not flexible enough or if you apply too much pressure. As a locksmith company with extensive experience, we remember cases with a stuck or broken card in the gap between the door and jamb. Please remember that sometimes calling a locksmith significantly saves your time and effort.
