Removing the Commercial Lock Cylinder For Carry-In Service

If you have an office door with a nice commercial lock on it, you can save money by removing the outer handle and taking it to a hardware store that has a locksmith on staff.  Here is how you remove the handle or knob.

1. First, you must have a working key.  With the door open, insert the key and turn as far as it will go.
2. Holding the key in the turned position, use a heavy paper clip and insert it into the tiny hole that is either on the 3 or 6 o'clock position on the knob spindle.  Sometimes this hole is on the knob but it is usually on the "neck" that joins the lever or knob to the door.
3. Depress this "catch" fully with the paper clip while pulling the knob or lever towards you.  Sometimes, you have to release the key a bit while you pull.
4. To reinstall, put the key in the lock in the knob or lever.  Slide it onto the knob "neck" or spindle. Once the knob or lever stops, turn the key, watch the latch retract, and push the knob or lever onto the spindle. Return your key to the upright position and remove.
5. If your key will not remove, push on the lever or knob so it slides onto the spindle more securely.  The knob must be inserted fully into place before you can remove the key.