When it comes to opening safes, not every job is straightforward. Some require creative problem-solving and a bit of engineering magic. Recently, Sergii, one of our expert safe technicians, faced a unique challenge: opening a multi-layered safe while trying to salvage the lock and door without any damage to use it in the future—but dispose of the body of the old safe. The solution? A custom-built jackhammer tool attached to a forklift. Here’s how Sergii turned a tough job into a success.
The Challenge: A Three-Layered Safe
Not all safes are built the same. This particular safe had not one, but three layers of protection:
- Thin metal exterior – Easy to cut but designed to discourage quick access.
- Concrete core – Added weight and protection against drilling or cutting.
- Thick metal interior – The final barrier protecting the contents.
The goal wasn’t just to open the safe—it was to salvage the lock and door intact while disposing of the body of the old safe. Breaking through concrete without damaging the working components takes the right tools. Unfortunately, there wasn’t an off-the-shelf solution that could do the job. That’s where Sergii’s creativity came into play.
The Solution: Building a Jackhammer-Based Tool
Instead of relying on traditional methods, Sergii decided to create a custom tool that could work from the side rather than from above. He started with a forklift—perfect for handling heavy loads—and engineered a special attachment using a wood pallet as the base.
The key element of the tool was a jackhammer mounted onto the pallet. This setup allowed the jackhammer to work horizontally, targeting the concrete layer from the side rather than from the top. The idea was to break apart the concrete strategically, avoiding any damage to the safe's lock and door underneath.
By securing the jackhammer to the forklift, Sergii could control the pressure and angle of impact with precision. The forklift's hydraulic system provided the power needed to drive the jackhammer into the concrete, while the wooden pallet attachment offered stability and flexibility.
Watch It in Action
Here’s a video of Sergii using his custom-built tool to crack the concrete slab and access the hidden safe:
Why Innovation Matter in Safe Cracking
Opening safes isn’t just about brute force—it’s about knowing how to apply the right amount of pressure, at the right angle, with the right tools. Sergii’s custom-built jackhammer tool is a perfect example of how experience and creativity come together to solve complex problems.
This level of innovation is what sets our team apart. Whether it’s opening a commercial vault, a residential safe, or figuring out how to access a multi-layered safe without damaging its contents, we have the tools and expertise to get the job done right.