Key bumping is a fairly new technique utilized by locksmiths to pick a lock quickly, and without damaging the delicate mechanisms inside. Though the technique has been around for decades, it wasn’t until the recent decade that it was rediscovered and became a more common type of lockpicking.

Lock Bumping with bump keys first appeared in a patent back in 1926, but was not widely known. Lock bumping was fairly unknown to the general public, and mostly existed as a trick used by police, firemen, locksmiths, and repo men. Then, in 1970’s, the technique of bumping the lock cylinder was shared with the rest of the world. Even after revealing this, it would be another 30 years before the technique became a more common name.

In 2005, the TV show “Nova” produced a story about the bumping technique and using bump keys to break into houses and businesses. Still not being widely addressed as a concern, TOOOL, or The Open Organization Of Lockpickers, demonstrated the technique at a variety of different security based conferences in order to address the security problems associated with this type of lock.

After the exposure from Nova and TOOOL in 2005 and 2006, the problem was begun to be addressed by different lock vendors. A variety of different methods have appeared to prevent lock bumping and make locks bump resistant or even bump proof. These came in response to the increased coverage and outcry about the ease at which individuals could pick the locks.

Bump keys are created by obtaining a blank key that is designed to fit into the lock. Then, the teeth are filed down to the lowest possible cut for the type of lock, which is found out by using manufacturer specifications about pin size. They can also be checked manually with a key gauge. A skilled locksmith can file down the key to the required size for a lock without the use of a machine or power tools, instead opting for just an impressioning file.

Even as the industry tries to improve its technology to deter lockpicking with bump keys, cheap locks continue to be easily picked with bump keys. In order to make your house or business more secure, investing in either a bump proof lock or a more expensive, higher quality lock would be very prudent. It may cost a little bit more, but it prevents thieves and secures your possessions.