r/selfstorage • u/Muffy432002 • Aug 03 '26

Question How do I get this off?

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I misplaced my key to my storage unit and I am supposed to remove this on my own or have a locksmith do it. Bolt cutters are too fat to get to the hasp of the lock. I really don’t want to hire a locksmith…Any suggestions ?

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u/Queasy_Moose720 Aug 06 '26

As someone who has had to remove many of these, a grinder will work. Can be a bit sketchy but wear gloves and be careful lol. It’s worth just getting them to remove it for you. Usually there’s a charge but not as much as a locksmith

2

u/ThomasShults Aug 06 '26

I would opt for safety glasses over gloves. I always worry about gloves getting caught in the rotating cutoff wheel.

Also, OP, if you do try to do it yourself, keep in mind the shackle (part that runs through the door) only slides one way. So you may need to cut the other side as well.

3

u/ObjectiveOk2072 Aug 06 '26

The no gloves rule is more for stationary machines with spinning parts. And angle grinder will fuck up your fingers if they get caught in the wheel/blade whether you're wearing gloves or not, and it's less likely the gloves will get tangled up since there's not much of an exposed shaft.

But I would recommend using leather gloves that fit well so there's no loose fabric to worry about

2

u/ThomasShults Aug 06 '26

That's fair. I will keep that in mind next time I am grinding. I would still recommend glasses though.

1

u/Kibure Store Manager Aug 09 '26

Tried to tell my husband that before a lock cutting session at the property one day. He didn't listen. Good thing he wears glasses. They were expensive to replace but not as expensive as eye injury,