This Simple Trick Could Be the KEY to Survival

We've talked before about the importance of locksmithing for survival. Locksmithing and lockpicking are often overlooked, but they are vital survival skills that everyone should learn.

In a SHTF situation, you never know when you might need to enter a room or building that's off-limits to you. Maybe you're looking for food, shelter, or a loved one who has been captured … in any case, the fact of the matter is you need to get in, and you won't be able to do it unless you can get past the lock.

Locks come in all shapes and sizes, some more complicated than others. It takes years to become a masterful locksmith.

Opening a standard padlock is a great place to start practicing your locksmithing skills … and we've got a hack today that will make it even easier.

Watch the video below to learn how to pick a padlock with a soda can, and scroll down for a step-by-step tutorial.

How to Pick a Padlock with a Soda Can

Using an X-Acto knife or other sharp instrument, cut off the top of your can.

You may need to use your scissors to finish the job.

Cut a slit down the middle, then cut off the bottom of the can too.

Roll the aluminum into a flat sheet and cut it in half.

Take one of the halves and cut it in half again, leaving a small rectangle.

Cut in from the sides, leaving a small tab at the top of the rectangle. Trim the tab so it's curved.

Fold it in half, making a tight crease.

Tightly wrap the tool you've made around the lock.

Pressing down on the top of the lock as hard as you can, slide the tool down the lock, all the way into the locking mechanism.

Using your wrist, twist back and forth several times until the lock pops open.

Have you ever picked a lock using this method? Do you have any locksmithing tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments!