Bump-key

The bump-key technique enables non-destructive opening of a lock by tapping an adapted key with a small hammer. This method works well on locks without specific bump-key protection. It’s a fast, relatively simple technique and the tools are easy to find (or make yourself). It’s a basic technique for any lock specialist.

Impact picking

The bump-key technique is part of our training module ‘impact- or percussion-picking’. In this module, we can also implement the pick gun and electropick. This equipment is popular with locksmiths because it can prove just as effective as the bump-key.

Lightning-fast

The bump-key can be a fast, effective and reliable method to open cylinder locks. For that reason, the bump-key is part of our training module ‘lightning-quick opening’.

History

A number of years ago, the bump-key raised a stir in the Netherlands (and far outside it). The technique proved particularly effective and somewhat simple to learn, and bump-key sets could be ordered online. We assisted in several independent investigations (including one published by Dutch consumers report in 2006) into the effectiveness of the bump-key. These showed that a large portion of market-available cylinders could and can be opened with a bump-key.

Current state of affairs

A large number of cylinder locks can still be opened with a bump-key. Despite the fact that over the years more and more manufacturers have applied bump-key protection to their locks, it still seems to be a difficult problem to solve. Some of these protections are able to be overcome with an advanced bump-key (bump-key 2.0). We have a large collection of bump-keys. Mail [email protected] or call 020 2602442 for more information.

Without a trace? 

With a bump-key a cylinder lock can be opened in a mere second. Although it’ll often take longer than that one second, it can be done in one or two taps of the hammer. The bump-key makes use of a modified key. This means there won’t be any scratches by tools where the key normally won’t reach. However, it’s still possible to prove the use of a bump-key through forensic investigation, even if the lock was opened in only a few taps. Read more about this soon in our news section.