How To Open A Stack-on Safe Without A Key (7 Tested Methods)

Working as a security professional I have come across many problems but none is as common as people trying to get into their safes without their key or passcode. 

A Stack-On safe will use an electronic keypad to open the doors, but it can also be opened by using a combination code or using the release button on top of the safe. Below we will demonstrate how to open a Stack-On Safe without a key. If these methods are unavailable you may have to use tools like a drill or chisel.

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 located 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 run into some issues before contacting customer service, you can refer to the instruction sheet that came with your Stack-on gun safe.

METHOD 2. Open a The Stack on Safe With a Lever Or Metal Rod

There are many gun safes, like stack on gun safes with electronic safe locks, that are not watertight, but an average person would 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, take into consideration this can greatly damage your safe and affect its resale value.

You can push a sturdy iron rod or a latch and push it up to break a gun safe open from the outside. Be cautious when positioning yourself, as the strength you exert can hit you or other precious objects.

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 gun safe. This is the last resort to open your stack on 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 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 by 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 back to its original degree 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, it is important that you don’t hit the lock or it may break permanently. The point of using the hammer is to hit the chisel, which will be inserted into the side of the safe and then pushed further and will allow you the 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 will use a drill to make an opening into 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 default code the manufacturer gives to open the safe the first time before you need to enter your code to program it, however, many times users 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, 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 your 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. If not, consider hiring a local locksmith for help.

A good locksmith will be able to 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.

References:
(1) composite material – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/composite-materials
(2) coil – https://www.britannica.com/technology/coil