Trying to open Antique Victor Safe + Lock Safe, No Combo

[newhampshirefarms]

I'm a complete novice trying to open a "Victor Safe & Lock" antique safe that belonged to my uncle before he recently passed away. We think there may be important documents in there, and I volunteered to try and research how to open it without knowing the combo before we pay a locksmith to come in. I found this website thanks to google. The safe says it was "Patented Oct 2 1888" and on the tumbler it has the number 52324. I was hoping I could contact the company to ask them, but it appears they are no longer in business.

Does anyone have any suggestions for me, short of paying a locksmith? I don't mind buying a stethoscope or basic tools if there is some sort of kit I can buy that will help me or just some basic tips of what to listen for when trying to turn the dial. Where should I start?

Thanks-
Matt

[criminalhate]

There is no discussion of opening safes in the public forum. The best suggestion would be call a locksmith.

[freakparade3]

An experienced locksmith will be able to help you. Safes that old should not be messed with unless you know what you are doing. Sometimes they contain nasty traps like teargas canisters. Time makes the simple teargas deadly in some cases. We can't help you but a locksmith can.