What autodialer is
An autodialer is a precision motorized device that mounts to the front of a mechanical combination safe and systematically dials every possible combination. Modern autodialers (Mas-Hamilton, Crawford\'s Sargent-style) use intelligent algorithms — they don\'t literally try 100×100×100 combinations; they exploit lock manufacturing tolerances and parking patterns to narrow the search by 80–90%.
Once started, the autodialer runs autonomously. We start the job, secure the work area, and return when the safe opens.
When we use it
- Group-2 mechanical locks where manipulation has been attempted without success
- High-security mechanical locks (Group-1) where the combination is fully unknown
- Safes where time is available and non-destruction is the priority
- Pre-drilling validation (confirm the lock can be opened without drilling)
When it isn\'t viable
Autodialer doesn\'t work on:
- Electronic keypad locks (no dial to drive)
- Group-2M ("Manipulation-resistant") locks that have anti-cycling counters
- Locks with cycle-limit security features (some Sargent and S&G models lock out after N attempts)
- Safes where the dial itself is damaged or the wheel pack is mechanically frozen
How long it takes
Autodialer run times: 1–5 hours typical, up to 12 hours on the most resistant Group-1 locks. Modern intelligent autodialers cut this roughly in half vs naive brute-force devices.
Cost
Autodialer pricing is typically $150–$400 plus our standard $150 service call. Because the device runs autonomously, longer runs don\'t scale labor cost proportionally.