How to Open a Combination Lock?

Standard dial technique, step by step

1. Clear the dial by turning it clockwise at least three full rotations, stopping at the zero or starting mark.
2. Turn to the first number of the combination, going clockwise.
3. Reverse direction and turn counter-clockwise, passing the first number once, and stop on the second number.
4. Reverse again, turning clockwise directly to the third number.
5. Pull the shackle to open.

The exact turn pattern varies slightly by lock brand, so check the manufacturer's instructions if the lock doesn't open on the first try — getting the clearing step and direction sequence right matters more than force.

If you own the lock but have forgotten the combination

• Check the manufacturer. Many brands (like Master Lock) can look up a combination if you provide proof of ownership and the lock's serial number.
• The "shim" method works on many cheap padlocks with a shackle-style body: a thin strip of metal (like a soda can cut into a shim shape) can be worked between the shackle and the lock body to bypass the locking mechanism, though this doesn't work on higher-security combination locks.
• The tension/feel method, mainly for lower-security combination padlocks: pull the shackle firmly while slowly rotating the dial, feeling for a slight give or catch at each correct number, since inexpensive locks have manufacturing tolerances that create tiny detectable resistance points.

A safety and legality note: these bypass methods should only be used on a lock you own or are authorised to open. Trying to open someone else's lock, even "just to see," can have legal consequences depending on the property involved.

The closest sibling pages are How to Program a Garage Door Opener? and How to Remove a Stripped Screw?.

See the Home Repair & DIY topic for other answers in this topic, or start from more researched answers.