It’s happened to all of us at one time or another. We go to check our mail and find that the mailbox is locked and we don’t have a key. What do you do? In this article, we will provide information on how to open a mailbox without a key. Several methods can be used, depending on the type of mailbox that you have. So don’t worry, there is always a way to get your mail!
Table of Contents
What You Need
- Lock picking kit
- Pliers (optional)
- Gloves (optional)
1. Lock picking kit
Using a lock-picking kit is the most straightforward way to open a mailbox without a key. There are various types of kits available, but they all essentially work in the same manner. The kit will come with several different tools that are used to manipulate the internal workings of the lock. Generally speaking, it’s best to start by using the smallest tool first and gradually work your way up as needed, until you’re able to unlock the mailbox.
2. Pliers
If you don’t have a lock-picking kit, pliers can also be used to open a mailbox without a key. Generally speaking, the larger the pliers are, the better they will work at opening a mailbox lock. If possible, try to find a pair of needle nose pliers that are able to fit inside the keyhole in order to manipulate the internal parts of the lock.
Be aware that this method may require some force and patience as it can take some time to get all of the pieces lined up properly for them to unlock. Additionally, if you apply too much force, you could end up damaging or breaking the lock completely. So proceed with caution!
3. Gloves
Finally, if you don’t have a lock-picking kit or pliers, you can also try using a pair of gloves. Depending on the size and shape of the keyhole, a glove may be able to fit inside it and be used to manipulate the internal parts of the lock to unlock it.
If this method is attempted, you must wear gloves as they will help protect your hands from any sharp edges or pieces inside the lock. Additionally, make sure that the material of the glove is thin enough so that you can still feel what you are doing without restricting movement too much.
What to Do
Step 1: Use two bobby pins to craft a lever and pick
If you’re patient and skilled, bobby pins can be used to create a lever and a pick of the lock. This method is best used on simple locks with few pins or those which have worn keys that no longer work due to age and wear.
To begin, straighten out two bobby pins so they are flat and insert them into the keyhole. Then take one pin and bend it slightly at the bottom and use this as your ‘lever’, pushing it against the side of the lock to push back any internal springs or pins inside. With your other pin, wiggle it around in various directions until you feel something shift inside the lock (this is usually when all of the pins line up).
Step 2: Insert the short side of the lever into your keyhole, then twist it like a regular key with the longer end
When you feel the pins shift, take your ‘lever’ pin and put the short end of it in the keyhole. Then take your other pin and use it to turn the long end of the lever like a key until you hear a click. This should unlock the mailbox!
If this doesn’t work, try manipulating both pins simultaneously, as sometimes this is necessary for certain locks. Additionally, if you find that one pin isn’t working as well as the other one, switch them out for two different bobby pins and try again.
Step 3: Insert the pick into the lock and apply pressure to each of the pins using your pick
If the bobby pin method didn’t work, you can also use a pick and try to push back the internal pins of the lock. To do this, insert your pick into the keyhole and use it to push each of the individual pins in order until they are all aligned. Once they are all aligned, you should be able to turn the lock with ease.
Step 4: Apply pressure to the lever while gently shifting the barrel of the lock until it clicks into place
If you still can’t open the lock, your last resort is to try using a lever. Insert the lever into the keyhole and use it to move the barrel of the lock so that it can be opened. This method is more advanced as there are multiple internal parts inside a lock and you must manipulate them correctly for this method to work. Additionally, you may need to apply some force when manipulating these parts, so proceed with caution!
FAQ
What do you do if you lose your mailbox key?
If you lose your mailbox key, the first thing you should do is contact your local postal office. They will be able to provide a new mailbox key or arrange for a locksmith to come and change the lock so that you can get access to your mailbox again. If you are unable to get a hold of the post office or have difficulty arranging a locksmith, you may want to consider contacting a professional locksmith service.
In most cases, the cost of replacing your mailbox key or changing the lock should be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. However, it is always important to check with your insurer before making any major changes to your property. Additionally, if you are renting and have lost the key to your mailbox, contact your landlord as soon as possible in order to arrange for a replacement key or lock change.
Regardless of the situation, it is important that you take steps to secure your mailbox to keep personal information and postal mail safe from theft or tampering. It is also wise to keep an extra copy of your new mailbox key in a secure location, such as a safe deposit box. [1]
Is it easy to pick a mailbox lock?
Mailbox locks can vary in difficulty, but the most common type of mailbox lock is relatively easy to pick using a bobby pin or other simple tools. However, if the mail lock has been altered or is a more complex model, then it may be more difficult and require more patience and skill to open. Additionally, you should always make sure that you have permission before attempting to pick any lock as it is illegal in many jurisdictions.
Is there a master key for mailboxes?
In some cases there may be a master key that can open all mailboxes in a single complex, though these are usually reserved for postal workers or maintenance staff. However, if you are an individual who needs to access your own mailbox and has lost your key, then it is best to try picking the lock using one of the methods outlined above. [2]
How do you pick a lock without a lock pick?
If you don’t have a lock pick, you can use bobby pins or other thin metal objects to fashion a makeshift lever that can be used to manipulate the internal parts of the lock. Additionally, if the keyhole is large enough, you may also be able to use needle nose pliers or even a glove to push back the internal pins and open the mailbox. Finally, as a last resort, you may need to use a lever to move the barrel of the lock so that it can be opened. Be aware that this method may require some force and patience as it can take some time to get all of the pieces lined up properly for the lock to open. [3]
Useful Video: Open a Mailbox with Lost Keys by Picking It
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning how to open a mailbox without a key is a straightforward process as long as you follow safety protocols and use the right tools. There are numerous methods to choose from; you can use simple items like a screwdriver and butter knife, or more novel techniques like lock picking or even dentistry! Whatever route you choose to pursue, taking precautions and planning ahead will ensure that you open your mailbox with minimal effort and frustration. Lastly, if all else fails, remember that the post office is always willing to help – they may even have extras keys they can give you! In this way, mailbox security won’t be an issue and you can continue on your daily routine of check-for-mail with ease!
References:
- https://faq.usps.com/s/article/Locked-Mailboxes-and-Mailbox-Keys
- https://mailboxempire.com/blogs/news/how-to-open-a-mailbox-without-a-key
- https://www.wikihow.com/Pick-a-Lock-With-Household-Items