Locksmith needed

[Maddog 521]

My wife got a small lock box with a dial combination lock from her sister. It was their mothers and the sister lost the combination. There is no name on the box anywhere but there is a small shield with a 4 digit number in it on a chrome plate around the dial. The box is 14" X 9 1/2" X 6" and the numbers on the dial are 0 to 23. Is there a way to figure out the combination or is that not an option? The hinge is exposed and I've thought about starting there to open it. I would appreciate any information you can offer how I can open it. Thanks.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

How necessary is it for the box to survive?

Ivan

 

[Spurdann]

If the hinge is exposed, grind it off and use a prybar.
Take your time with the grinder so you don't catch the treasure inside on fire.
Good luck.

 

[Maddog 521]

They are not concerned about the box, just the contents. The only number is a 4 digit number in an outline of a shield on the chrome piece over the dial.

 

[double-dipper]

Maddog, with 23 numbers it could have about 12167 different combinations.
I would use a Dremel with a cut off wheel and cut the hinges. If is soft metal you could drill the lock.

 

[Muss Muggins]

Dremel tool . . .

 

[s&wchad]

You may be able to open the lock yourself, depending on the quality. The Mrs. put a cheap combination on my favorite travel duffel and forgot the combination.

I was able to open it by pulling up on the shackle and slowly turning the dial. When it got to the correct number, I could feel it engage. Stop there, write down the number and slowly start turning the other direction. Repeat until the lock opens!

It may not work for the lock box, but it's worth a try. I'd wedge something between the lid to and body to put tension on the mechanism and start by turning the dial to the right.

You may want to contact member Kanewpadle by PM. I believe he's a locksmith with decades of experience.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/private.php?do=newpm&u=157690