How to Open a Cable Lock

Cable locks are useful for securing bikes, firearms, kayaks, equipment and other gear from potential theft. The cable itself can vary in length and, from a ¼ inch up to ¾ inch or more. The length is typically determined by what is being secured; however, a variety of lengths are available. The cable will either feature a locking mechanism, such as an attached dial or keyed lock, or a formed loop in each end that accepts a combination or keyed padlock.

Instructions

    • 1

      Position the cable so that the lock is easily accessible for opening. Slide the cable around the kayak, bike or other object so that you have sufficient access to the lock.

    • 2

      Turn the dial of the combination lock to begin keying in the combination numbers. This will apply to either a dial combination padlock or an attached cylinder rotating combination lock. It may be necessary to slightly push in on the hasp while entering the combination.

    • 3

      Insert a key into the key slot for a keyed lock. Both attached and padlock keyed locks will function similarly. With the key fully inserted into the lock, turn the key to the left or right and pull on the hasp of the lock to open.

    • 4

      Remove padlocks by pulling the hasp through the loops on both ends. This applies to padlocks that can be removed and are not permanently attached to the cable.

    • 5

      Pull apart the two lock sections that are attached to remove the cable from around the object that was secured.