How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock

EasyKeys.com can’t solve all your problems – like a sore back or a dripping faucet, but we can help with a few others! One of which is a broken key stuck inside of a lock core. Keys can break in lock cores for several reasons including becoming old and frail, the lock is gummed up, or if the user is the Hulk and turns too hard.

If you are a visual learner, check out our YouTube video: How to Remove a Broken Key from a File Cabinet Lock or Desk Lock.


And remember to order a replacement for the broken key!

The solution is the broken key extractor tool. A broken key extractor fits into the lock core and essentially grabs the broken piece of the key. When the broken key extractor is pulled from the lock core, it also removes the piece of the key, leaving the lock usable. There are multiple types of broken key extractors available. To find the correct option for you, see below.

If there is space around the cut side of the broken key:

Pick the Saw Blade Style

The saw blade works by gripping the cuts of the key. Insert the extractor with the saw blade facing the side of the cut key. Apply a little pressure onto the cut side of the key while pulling the extractor out of the core.



If there is no space around the cut side of the broken key:

Pick the Spiral Style

While inserting the extractor on either side of the key, twist or spin the extractor to the right. Continue twisting while pulling the extractor out of the core.

Another available option is the hook style. This extractor has a small hook on the end and is made of steel.

EasyKeys.com also offers an interchangeable extractor set which covers it all! The HPC Interchangeable Extractor Set is the most popular on the market. It is compact, which allows you to carry a variety of extractors inside one tiny set. The set includes 4 extractor blades (1 saw blade, 3 spiral blades of various sizes) stored inside a hollow handle. Replacement blades are also available if you happen to misplace one.

If you need more assistance picking the correct tool for your lock, let us help.

Thumb Turn Locks

It’s as easy as snapping your fingers!

If you can snap your fingers, you can turn a thumb turn lock. What is a thumb turn lock? Thumb turn locks are an oval or circular shaped lock that operates by turning the grip. Thumb turn locks do not require a key to lock and unlock. EasyKeys.com carries multiple thumb turn lock sets for non-secure applications such as panel doors, storage cabinet doors, RV storage boxes, and more. The thumb turn locks are versatile and can be applied accordingly to provide a clockwise or counterclockwise application. EasyKeys provides ESP Lock and Wind Danbury brand thumb turn lock sets that have threaded shells, come staked to a 90-degree rotation, and include everything necessary to perform all locking functions.

How to install a thumb turn lock? It’s easy! Installing a thumb turn lock is the same as installing a regular cam lock. Locate the position of the lock on the door or drawer, and if there is no existing hole, drill one for the thumb turn lock. Insert the thumb turn lock into the hole and align the lock as desired. From the inside, place the washer and hex nut onto the lock and tighten while holding the lock secure on the outside. A spur washer is included for wood installation. If more help is needed, contact our customer service team at info@easykeys.com or at 877.839.5397.

ESP Lock offers multiple size options for thumb turn locks to ensure finding the perfect fit for your needs. Three depths are available: 5/8”, 7/8”, and 1-1/8”. The ESP Hudson Lock thumb turn cam locks are a bright nickel finish, and include a hex nut, sem screw, 1-1/4” straight cam, 1-1/8” x ¼” offset cam, super washer, and a 1/8” cylinder ring.

The Wind Danbury thumb turn locks are also available in multiple sizes, and are chrome plated. These thumb turn locks come with two levers, one prong washer, one collar, hex nut, and a mounting screw with washer.