What is a thumb-turn lock

Published: Oct 7, 2022

There are different types of locks out on the market today. It might be quite difficult to differentiate between all of them and decide which one you need. Many people have no idea what a thumb turn lock is, even though most of them probably have it in their house. Let’s find out what thumb turn door locks are and how they function.

This type of lock is suitable for both internal and external use. An interior thumb turn lock can be opened and closed only from the inside of the room. Basically, most of them don’t have any keyhole outside, only a thumb turn inside. Most people use this type of lock for their bathrooms and sometimes bedrooms. Thumb turn locks used for external doors require a key to operate on the outside and a knob on the inside.

When you want to unlock it, you’ll need to rotate the knob counterclockwise and vice versa.

Are thumb turn locks secure

The main function of any lock is to provide security. All the locks we have today serve different purposes, so their security levels are different.

If you’re curious whether thumb turn locks are secure, our answer is yes, but only for certain usage. The locks that don’t have a keyhole on the outside are of low security. They can be easily opened because most of them are equipped with a release slot. So, thumb turn locks of that type are suitable for your bathroom or bedroom to provide you with some privacy. However, there’s no point in using them on your front door, as they are easily accessible.

For external usage, it’s better to choose thumb turn cylinders that have a keyhole on one side and a knob on the other. Some of them even have a button that makes it impossible to open them from the outside. These locks are really helpful in case of emergency because you don’t have to worry about finding a key. If there’s a fire inside your building, it’s much easier and quicker to simply turn the thumb than to look for your key everywhere.

How do you open a thumb lock without the key

All of us probably were in a situation where we couldn’t find our keys. We know that this can be kind of stressful, so resolving it fast is essential.

Don’t panic and try looking for your keys again. Maybe you just put them in a different pocket than usual. If not, you may use a spare key if you have one. When both these options don’t work out, it’s time to consider some methods of opening a lock without a key.
If you use thumb locks, you may try opening them with the help of a release slot. Most of these locks are equipped with one to open the door in case of emergency. However, if it doesn’t work or your lock doesn’t have it, there are other ways to unlock the door.

You can always try to pick the lock by using a bobby pin, paper clip, a thin wire, etc. However, this is a great option only if you’re fully aware of what you’re doing. If you’re unsure whether you can pick the lock accurately, it’s better not to try it because you can accidentally damage the lock.
Try using a credit card or a knife if you have one. You’ll need to put it between the door and the strike plate. Move it up and down, changing the angles until you manage to push out the latch.

There’s also an option to use brutal force, like drilling the lock or breaking it with a hammer. However, it’s a last resort and we strongly recommend not doing it because you’ll severely damage your lock. Instead, you may use emergency locksmith services. A technician will reach you as fast as possible and help you to open the door without breaking your lock.

What is a thumb turn on a lock

As we have already mentioned, there are two types of thumb turn locks for doors. The one that has a keyhole and the one that doesn’t. However, both these locks are equipped with a thumb turn. It is a metallic moving part of the lock that basically works by the same principle as a key. You turn it and lock or unlock the door from the inside.

A door lock thumb turn is a perfect option for you if you want to have the possibility to get out in case of an emergency easily. If you don’t want anyone to enter your personal space without permission, you may install this lock in your bedroom or the room you work in. Sure Lock & Key will gladly help you with the installation process.

Summing up

Thumb turn door locks might not be the most secure lock type, but they have many advantages. They are a perfect option for internal usage, as they’ll provide you with privacy. These locks are extremely helpful and convenient if an emergency occurs because they don’t require a key to operate. Thumb turn locks are really easy to use. You just have to turn the thumb in order to unlock the door.

If you decide to install this lock type or maybe you have any other problems with your locks or key, Sure Lock & Key is always ready to assist. Just give us a call.

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