4 Lock Bumping Videos – The Problem & The Solution Plus Our Comments

It doesn't take long while doing a quick internet search to realize that not all locks are bump proof, and that lock bumping is a problem. If you haven't heard of "lock bumping", it is a form of lock picking that was originally used by locksmiths. It is now a way that people use to gain unlawful access into someone else's house. Thanks to the wonders of technology, people can buy a bump key online and learn how to use it.

Criminals are getting smarter, and it is time for homeowners to wise up as well. Did you know that there is a claim floating around that up to 90% of all locks are not, we repeat NOT bump proof. This statistic is pretty darn alarming, once you realize that it might not even be too far off from the truth. Hence, it is in all of our best interest to learn more about lock bumping and get a handle on how it works and how we can prevent it.

Since it is easier to find videos online of how to bump a lock compared to how to bump proof your locks, we have compiled a quick reference list of the top 4 videos on lock bumping and bump proof locks to help homeowners out.

Top 4 Bump Proof Lock Videos

Video #1 by Rootjunky - Link

The first video is actually going to show you how to create a bump key and how a bump key works. After you watch this video, you should have a fairly solid understanding of how lock bumping works, and you should be able to try it yourself. It really isn't meant to be complicated - you just need a bump key and something to whack it with. No, we aren't trying to encourage anyone to start breaking and entering, but if you are unfamiliar with the way that locks work, this is a great video to help you understand the process and how bumping works overall.

FYI, Root Junky is mainly a phone guy, but he's done some playing around with locks, and the way this video is done it shows how to defeat a Schlage lock, which is something that most people would assume could not be so easily defeated.

We think that this is one of the best videos on explaining the process and what is happening inside of the actual lock. As a homeowner, once you understand how simple it really is to bump a lock (and that anyone with internet access can learn how to do it), you will realize the importance of protecting against it, using a true bump proof deadbolt.

Video #2 by Acme Locksmith - Link

This video by Acme Locksmith shows just how scarily quick someone can bump your lock. The video then gives us several options that homeowners can use to protect their homes.

One of my favorite things about the video is the provided solutions start under $20 and work their way up.

In this video, the examples he uses for preventative measures include a strap that secures the thumb turn (inexpensive but effective), the Kwikset Smart Key which uses wafers instead of pins, an Acme half deadbolt to baffle intruders and stop them dead in their tracks, as well as one more Acme high security bump proof lock solution.

Overall, we have a few solutions that should appeal to any home owner and give you some great ideas on how to deal with this problem of lock bumping.

Video #3  Wayne Winton Looks At Schlage Deadbolt Door Lock - Link

In this video, Wayne Winton from Tri-county Locksmith Service, reviews a bump resistant and pick resistant Schlage deadbolt. He breaks down what makes this lock stand out and why you should consider it.

In the video he shows and talks about the common ways that people gain access into your home and how this lock prevents it.

Video #4 Wayne Winton Looks At High Security Locks VS. Big Box Locks - Link

When a locksmith shows you the difference between a high security, bump proof deadbolt and your standard non-bump-proof deadbolt, we should all pay attention.

In this video Wayne Winton quickly shows us the difference between a high security lock and ones that you can purchase at the big box stores. You get to actually see why the high security lock is bump proof and pick proof to the common criminal.

As you can see, there are a number of things that set apart a high security bump proof deadbolt from a more average lock, such as solid brass vs. aluminum, as well as custom one-of-a-kind keys featuring sidebars vs. easily copied generic keys. In the video, Wayne mentions that ASSA is one company that makes a great bump-proof lock, and it is used in the example in the video as well. We should also mention something that Wayne talks about in the video that defines a high security deadbolt, and that is something called "tolerances". If you didn't watch the full video, go back and watch it, because it is packed with useful information.

Conclusions

Why is it so important to make sure your lock is bump proof? Other than protecting your family and possessions, when locks are bumped they typically leave no sign of forced entry. Insurance companies can actually deny your claim without proof of breaking and entering.

Understanding how a lock can be bumped helps you to know what to look for in your next lock. Since these videos cover a variety of recommendations at different price points, every homeowner can implement some form of protection against lock bumping.