Bump Keys For You
A beginners guide to the art of lock bumping.
All views are the authors own, this a blog on the lock bumping world.
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What is lock bumping?
Lock bumping is a form of opening locks that has been around since before you and I were born! In its simplest form it is basically a key cut at its lowest heights, and using kinetic energy we can hit all of the key pins at the same time and with light tension we can make all the pins dissect at the shear line and the lock will open. However times have changed, and forward thinking locksmiths have started designing revolutionary bump keys that can do two different things at the same time and what was once preached impossible by those that have been in the trade for many years is now perfectly achievable including many high security locks.
Where can I find the best bump keys?
There are many places in the UK where you can purchase bump keys, and the choice is yours. There is no patent or copyright on bump keys which basically means anyone can make them and anyone can copy them which hapens all to often unfortunately! Wherever you choose from make sure you do research, for instance are the bump keys cut on original blanks or copies? Original blanks are much stronger than 'universal blanks' and much more durable. Are there actually videos describing how to use the keys and live examples? Its all well and good a company saying that a certain key works on a certain lock but wouldnt you like to actually see it being used, not on one lock but on many just so you know they didnt just choose the easiest example?
As the blog is updated we will list various sites to purchase bump keys from so you can make an informed choice. We don't endorse any particular company but would prefer you to do your own research.
Fortressbumpkeys.com
Fortress bump keys although expensive, is a website to purchase high end bump keys mainly desinged for higher security cylinders although there are some standard keyway bump keys on there.
bumpkeysltd.com
Relatively new to the bump key scene in website terms, Scott has been making bump keys for many years. There is a wide array on the website with cylinder specific bump keys including an outstanding selection for padlocks.
ukbumpkeys.com
UK bump keys is one of the longest serving members of online bump key market, as well as having a good selection of bump keys, they sell a massive array of hand picks and other locksmith tools.
How do I learn to bump and what tools do I need?
Low skill high opening percentage!
Lock bumping requires minimal tools so is a very cost effective locksmith entry method. All is required is suitable bump keys, bump hammer, various washers and rubbers and a little bit of practice! However if you would like to get a running jump on your skillset there are various training courses you can attend to improve your opening success rates, think of it as try before you buy!