What dial reading is
Dial reading is the careful, calibrated direct reading of a Group-2 mechanical combination dial to recover the exact combination digits. The locksmith uses a precision indicator to measure the contact points between the wheel pack and the drive cam at each digit, then triangulates the combination from those measurements.
Unlike manipulation (which opens the safe), dial reading goes a step further: it produces the actual numeric combination the customer can use going forward.
When we use it
- Customer wants the combination, not just the open safe (e.g., for a family heirloom they\'ll keep using)
- Estate / probate situations where multiple beneficiaries need future access
- Lost-combination cases where the customer wants documentation
- Pre-sale safe certification (combination delivered to the buyer\'s closing package)
When it isn\'t viable
- Electronic locks (no mechanical wheel pack)
- Worn wheel packs where contact points are no longer crisp
- Group-2M anti-manipulation locks
How long & cost
Dial reading runs 30–90 minutes on cooperative Group-2 locks. Pricing: typically $100–$250 plus our standard $150 service call.
Combination delivery
We deliver the recovered combination in writing, to the verified owner only. For probate or estate cases, we deliver per the documented authorization. We do not deliver combinations by phone or unsecured email.