Ever wanted to learn how to kick down a door like Judge Dredd or Jason Bourne?
Maybe you just lost your keys, or maybe you want to impress a friend by senselessly destroying your own door. Whatever your reason, there are always better ways to get that door open. Before Jason Bourne would even consider kicking the sucker down, he would be trying to pick the lock.
But let’s assume you have no other options. If that’s the case, put on some heavy boots and let’s get started.
How to Kick Down a Door Like a Soldier
Let me start off by saying that you absolutely do not want to run at the door and slam your body into it. You definitely won’t break the door, but what you will break is yourself. Don’t do that.
Instead, we’re going to use a well placed strike with the flat of our foot. So start by checking to see which way the door opens; you’ll save yourself potential pain and embarrassment. Figured it out? Great.
What you want to do is strike using your heal near the lock plate. Notice I said near, and not right against the lock. I hope I don’t need to explain this one. Now, brace yourself and slam your heel near the door handle as hard as you can. It should look a little like this…
Alternatively… the Mule Kick
Another way you can kick down a door is by using what’s called a “mule kick.” With your back facing the door, kick backwards aiming about six inches to the side of the locking mechanism. This method will help you avoid hyper extending your knee, and someone people find they can transfer more force to the door this way.
If you’ve landed a solid kick, the door should begin to splinter. Most modern doors are both hollow and made of flimsy wood. They give the illusion of protection, but in reality offer very little.
And… you’re done. The main idea here is to plant yourself firmly and deliver a well placed blow near the locking mechanism. Even if your door has a dead-bolt, it shouldn’t pose much of a challenge. After all, they extend only a very short way into the frame.
Safety First
I just want to wrap up by saying that that kicking in a door can be extremely damaging to your body if you don’t do it correctly. Your knees are especially susceptible. Make absolutely sure to aim well and make sure that the impact goes into the door and not your leg! Remember, transfer of energy.
Lastly, you may feel an urge to lean backwards when you kick. In this case, don’t do it. Make sure to keep your torso vertical to ensure that you’re putting as much force into the door as possible.
Next time you’re locked out, call a lock-smith. If you can’t find one, pick the lock. If you can’t pick the lock, only then should you try kicking the door down.
