Lock Bumping Explained
Lock Bumping: What It Is and How to Stop It
A $5 key and an internet video open most standard locks in seconds. Here is how, and how to stop it.
What Is Lock Bumping?
Lock bumping opens a pin-tumbler lock with a specially cut bump key that matches the lock’s keyway. You insert the key, pull it out slightly, then tap it (“bump” it)while applying light turning pressure. The tap jumps all the pins to the shear line for a split second, and the gentle pressure spins the cylinder open. Bump keys cost a few dollars online and the technique is taught in YouTube videos. ACME Locksmith has explained and demonstrated lock bumping for years, and more importantly, how Phoenix homeowners stop it. We are a licensed, veteran-owned company in business since 1997 with four valley shops.
How Lock Bumping Works
Cheap, quiet, and quick, which is exactly why you should know about it.
What a bump key is
A key cut to the deepest depth on every position, leaving a row of ridges and valleys. One bump key opens any lock of the same keyway: a Kwikset key for Kwikset, a Schlage key for Schlage.
How the bump works
Pull the key out about an eighth of an inch so the ridges sit at the pins. A sharp tap drives the pins to the shear line while light turning pressure catches the cylinder and turns it.
Why it matters
More than 90% of American doors use standard pin locks that can be bumped, even by a child, with no sign of forced entry. A few simple upgrades stop it cold.
How to Bump-Proof Your Locks
Install a half deadbolt. A half deadbolt is a deadbolt that has no exterior key, making it both a pick-proof AND bump-proof deadbolt. However, it cannot go on your primary entry or exit doors. In our market, Phoenix Metro, we often use the garage door to enter and leave so this isn’t an issue. But if you use the front, door, they cannot be used.
Switch to Kwikset SmartKey. SmartKey uses wafers instead of pins, and bumping relies on pins, so it stops the attack. You can spot it by the small hole next to the keyhole. There are weaknesses with smart key locks, especially 1st and 2nd generation, but they do stop lock bumping.
Go high-security. We recommend Mul-T-Lock for its strength and a deadbolt that locks into the frame. Its restricted keys also cannot be copied without your permission.
Worried Your Locks Can Be Bumped?
We will tell you what you have and the best fix for your doors and budget, from a SmartKey swap to a full high-security upgrade. We can also rekey your locks while we are there.
Prefer Video: What our Lock Bumping YouTube Short
What Phoenix Homeowners Say
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Matt came to rekey two locks and replace two other locks. Matt was very professional, friendly and helpful. He got the work done efficiently and was very patient in explaining the lock features. Would highly recommend Matt and his company. … More
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Max was here in a flash, and in and out in a flash, on a whole house and garage rekey!! He did an amazing job, and also informed us of other products and services they offer in their store, in which I was surprised they did. Long story … More short, I'm sure they are all Courteous & professional, but we had Max, and he was Awesome!! Nice work Sir.
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I don’t normally write reviews but had to today because Big Mike was awesome. Amazingly was able to come rekey 5 locks for me within 20 minutes of me calling, on a Saturday no less. Some of the locks were not your average Kwikset. As a … More hobbyist lock picker, I really appreciated Big Mike explaining to me how he rekeyed each type of lock. 10/10 would recommend. Thank you, Big Mike!
Lock Bumping FAQ
Is lock bumping illegal?
Owning bump keys is not illegal in most places, but using them to enter a property you do not own or have permission to access is breaking and entering. Locksmiths use them only with proof of ownership.
Bump-Proof Your Phoenix Home
Ask us which upgrade fits your doors. Call or schedule a security check today.
