Find the first sticking point.

Speed tip: You don’t have to clear the lock to try each combination. You only have to clear the lock when the first or third number exceeds the second for the first time. You only have to clear the lock when the first or third number exceeds the second for the first time.

• As you turn the dial CW with tension on the shackle, you will come to the first clockwise stopping point where you can't turn the dial anymore. Make note of where it stops. Sometimes, the dial will stick right on the numbers, but sometimes the sticking point will be between the numbers. If so, record the number to the half (example: 22.5).^[3]
• While continuing to apply tension to the shackle, turn the dial as far left (counter-clockwise) as you can. Make note of the first counter-clockwise (CCW) stopping point. The CCW stopping point and CW stopping point form your sticking 'range', for example, 22.5 to 10. (Note: Some 800XXX and 908xxx locks have a two number sticking range [for example, 28 to 30 and 10 to 12].)^[4]
• Determine the first sticking point by finding the number that's in the midpoint of the sticking range. A range of 4 and 5 would have a first sticking point of 4.5. A range of 22.5 and 23.5 would have a first sticking point of 23.
• Each set of numbers that you find will have the same range. For example, one group may be 0.25 to 0.75 and another may be 0.5 to 0.25 on either side of the sticking points.

A combination lock (using a bike lock as an example as shown in the pictures above) has three or more dials with a keyhole through the centre of them. When correct code (in this case 9-2-4) is entered the keyholes of all the dials on the lock become aligned and toothed pin (second picture) can be inserted. When the dials are moved or jumbled, the keyholes become dis-aligned and the toothed pin cannot be removed and is therefore locked in place.

How To Recover A Master Lock Combination

When picking/cracking a combination lock a length of rope can be used to create a makeshift handle to give you a better grip of the lock. A good grip is necessary because in order to crack the lock you will need to apply a strong and even upwards force on the shackle throughout the entire procedure and this can be difficult to obtain with just bare hands. Being able to apply strong even force on the shackle is vital in order to put a greater amount of friction on the locks dials so that when a dial is turned to the correct number it will result in a resounding 'click' and a slight upward movement of the shackle. When you feel the shackle move upwards slightly and release a 'click' you can move on to the next dial and repeat the procedure until all the dials on the lock have been completed and the lock has been cracked. If the lock is locked onto a solid object such as a gate or a door then a length of rope most likely won't be necessary as having it locked onto something gives you more control and grip thus meaning you will be able to complete the whole procedure with just your bare hands.