Is a bump hammer really necessary?

[deralian]

I think using DND blanks is a great idea, not just for the mechanical reasons. Having a special key (if the customer sees you) would add to the professional factor too. Makes it seem like what you have is not something that just anyone could make or get.

I agree that not opening the lock, or taking two hours, is way less professional than using a bump key.

[arielschoenberg]

It is not necessary to use a hammer, in my personal experience I seen most locksmiths use the end of a screw driver. But I have to say that I do hear that the bump hammer is a lot more successful and used a lot more often than the end of a screw driver.

[nite0wl]

I prefer using a dedicated bump hammer over screw drivers and the like. I find it gives me a better success rate plus I like my screw drivers.

[BobbyZ]

I agree, a screwdriver looks less pro than a bumphammer. My argument is that bumping in general looks unprofessional. To elaborate, I do it with a screwdriver handle, but not when customers are around.

I agree that it can look unprofessional but if its not a lock that you sold or installed it could also make a sale for you.As we all know bumping can be quite fast and showing how easily you can defeat a lock could help keep a customer safer and allow you to sell them a more secure bump proof lock in the process. So while it could be perceived as unprofessional it can easily be done in a professional manner that could generate business

[RumballSolutions]

I've had no qualms about bumping locks at a lockout. If I try bypass for a minute or so, then picking for a few minutes, then I'll move onto bumping. I prefer a bump hammer as there is a lot less potential to scratch/marr the door or the frame. Damaging the finish of the door or lock certainly is not professional, which is the same reason I use buffers on the key to avoid the tell tale "plug stamping".

When locked out the customer usually has only a few requirements - get in quick, do it cheap and no damage to the lock. It's quick, cheap and damage free. It's also a whole lot more professional than drilling, which is the default for a lot of guys when it doesn't pick.

Sure, given enough time most locks are picked, but is that really what the customer wants or is that more about the ego of the locksmith?

Bumping a lock is also a great way to visibly demonstrate the actual security of the lock compared to the customers perception. It does it in a discrete way, free of apparent sales pressure. The customer makes the decision based on their own needs and if they feel they need better security, the invariably ask if there are better locks out there. Not everyone needs or wants high security locks, so I don't ram it down their throat. What's more professional than allowing a customer to come to their own informed conclusions regarding their needs?