As a security professional, I have encountered many issues with safes, but none is as common as people trying to get into their safes without their keys or passcode.
A Stack-On safe will use an electronic keypad to open the doors, but it can also be opened using a combination code or the release button on top of the safe. Below we will demonstrate how to open a Stack-On Safe without a key. You may use tools like a drill or chisel if these methods are unavailable.
METHOD 1. Use a Backup Key
Most electronic Stack-on gun safes come with a security backup key. If you have your security key, look for a slot below the electronic keypad.
Insert the security key into the 9 o’clock position and turn it to the 1 o’clock position. If you encounter issues before contacting customer service, you can refer to the instruction sheet with your Stack-on gun safe.
METHOD 2. Open a The Stack on Safe With a Lever Or Metal Rod
Many gun safes, like stack-on gun safes with electronic safe locks, are not watertight, but an average person could not tell from the outside. This is because there must be some lock on the door, either a key lock or a combination lock.
There is one method that is more damaging if you have lost the security key and need an alternative, and it involves an iron rod; consider that this can greatly damage your safe and affect its resale value.
You can push a sturdy iron rod or a latch-up to break a safe gun open from the outside. Be cautious when positioning yourself; your strength can hit you with recoil or damage valuables.
METHOD 3. Using a Drill to open your stack on safe
The stack on the gun safe can be opened with a drill. Drilling into the locked body will permanently damage your stack on the gun safe. This is the last resort to open your stack on a gun safe.
You need to remove the lock body with a drill; this is only done after drilling through the steel of the stack on the gun safe. It’s usually easier than drilling directly through the safe itself.
If composite material is present, there is a possibility that it may be already drilled before it is set up. Use a different drill bit for rigid steel plates and softer plates. When your Stack-On safe is drilled beyond repair, you can repair it using drill-resistant tapered pins to help close the hole.
You’ll need to drill a few smaller holes to fill the larger one. Then you’ll be able to return the safe to its original level of security. (1)
METHOD 4. Using Hammer & Chisel to open the safe
The main thing to remember is that a hammer should be used as a last resort when everything else fails. The hammer is the least effective option.
When opening safes with a hammer, you mustn’t hit the lock, or it may break permanently.
Use the hammer to hit the chisel, which will be inserted into the safe side and pushed further, allowing you to get some leeway to open the safe.
METHOD 5. Open the safe With A Bore-Scope
When locksmiths try to open a gun safe, they use a drill to open the lock body. They will then push a steel rod through the hole and into the combination keyholes, which deactivates the locks.
Scooping is the process of inserting an optical endoscope inside the hole of the lock. Since firearms are a sensitive subject, this method requires a significant amount of precise skill.
The optical endoscope inserts the ratchet wheel inside the lock and aligns with other wheels with a notching system. Once aligned correctly, you can unlock the gun safe and open it safely.
METHOD 6. Using The Factory Code
This code may only be used as the manufacturer’s default code to open the safe the first time before you need to enter your code to program it; however, users often don’t enter this code to change it and keep the factory code in place.
The safe can open through the entry of a factory code on the numerical keypad of the safe. It is a straightforward method and perhaps faster than the dial system. But it is also possible to encounter some difficulty if the safe has experienced an external power failure due to the batteries that drive the opening system.
We may even encounter a failure of the safe, either of the keypad, electronic board, coil, battery holder, or wiring. In this situation, it will be necessary to use the emergency key or the intervention of an accredited locksmith to repair or change the batteries to open the safe. (2)
METHOD 7. Calling A Locksmith
A professional locksmith can attempt to open a Stack-On gun safe if you cannot open it with the critical backup method. Even if you have a warranty on your gun safe, it’s best to contact the manufacturer first.
You can ask them to send someone to unlock your gun safe for money. If this happens, once they inspect the gun safe, they may agree to reimburse you for the cost of a locksmith instead.
When a standard key doesn’t open your Stack-On gun safe correctly, please don’t waste time trying to improvise or replace it. Call professional help right away; your personal safety is at stake. Take advantage of any warranty you may have if your safe is defective.
A good locksmith can open any Stack-on gun safe for a reasonable price. You should ensure that the locksmith you are using is reliable and trustworthy. Ensure that they are honest and have certification.
Tips for Choosing a Good Locksmith
When Looking for A Good Locksmith, Some Things to Consider Include the Following:
- Professionalism: Look for a locksmith who is professional, punctual, and presents themselves clean and organized.
- Experience: Look for a locksmith with a significant amount of experience in the field who is knowledgeable about different types of locks and security systems.
- Licensing and certification: Ensure the locksmith is licensed, certified, and insured.
- Trustworthiness: Look for a trustworthy and reliable locksmith, and you can trust the safety and security of your property.
- Transparency: Look for a transparent locksmith in pricing and services; this will help you avoid hidden fees and additional charges.
- Accessibility: Look for a locksmith available 24/7 who can offer emergency services.
- Good reputation: You can check the locksmith’s reputation in the community by reading reviews and ratings online, checking the Better Business Bureau, or asking for references.
- Professional association membership: Look for a locksmith who is a professional association member in their field since this may indicate a high level of knowledge, training, and adherence to professional standards.
References:
(1) composite material – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/composite-materials
(2) coil – https://www.britannica.com/technology/coil