How to change the combination on a winchester gun safe? (2023)

What is the override code for Winchester safe?

If the handle will not rotate and the safe will not open, the procedure was incorrectly executed and the combination is still 1-2-3-4-5-6.

Unlike electronic locks, owners cannot change the combinations on their gun safe's dial locks themselves. However, it is possible for a reputable locksmith to do so. Alternatively, many Champion Safe dealers are equipped to change dial lock combinations as well.

Your safe's owners manual should provide instructions on how to change your dial lock's combination. While you can change the combo on a mechanical lock, it can be tricky if you haven't done it before and know what you're doing.

The simplest solution is to reset the code. Depending on the manufacturer and type of safe, you may be able to enter an override code, or your locksmith may be able to access a reset switch inside the safe with a special tool. If there is no way to override the code, you may be able to “bounce” the safe.

How you reset your gun safe depends on your type of gun safe. If you have an electronic digital safe, locate the programming button and reset to access the new code. However, if you have a mechanical combination lock, you will most likely need the support of a locksmith.

Using the Override Key

If you lose your combination, you can use the manual override key to override the lock mechanism. Before you try other ways of opening your Winchester gun safe, this is the first thing you should do. The override key is designed in a way that messes up with the lock mechanism to open it.

Important: The factory preset code is 1,2,3,4,5,6 and should be changed before using the safe.

Most new safes come with an override code of 0000 or 9999.

Why isn't my Winchester safe opening?

Troubleshooting. If the door will not open or makes several beeps after entering your code, it may be time to change batteries. If you enter your code and hear two (2) beeps and no motor sound, please change battery.

Opening a Safe

If the job is just to set a new combination or switch a manual lock to an electronic one, expect to pay around $50 to $150.

Enter the factory pre-set code of: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 and open the door. IMPORTANT !! The following must be done with the door in the open position with your locking bolts extended.

If you don't have the key or code, you can use household items such as paper clips, nails, and screwdrivers. An electronic safe can be opened without a safe or code if a rare earth magnet is used, but it can also damage other electrical objects in the home.

By listening for specific sounds and feeling the vibrations that a dial makes as it's turned, a locksmith can find the right combination to unlock the safe. This is the best way to resolve the problem as it doesn't harm the integrity of the safe and can usually be completed in less than an hour.

You can visit a Master Lock Distributor / Retailer or submit a Lost Combination form. Bring your lock to the retailer. Be sure that it is not attached to anything. If you do not bring the lock, or it is attached to something, we will not release the combination.

So you want to know, “can a locksmith open a gun safe?” The answer is yes.

If your safe does not come with a key, there is another option to try – a change key. Because people can forget their safe combination, certain safes come with a change key. This change keys allows customers to reset the safe's combination so you can regain access to the safe.

Press the reset button on the inner keypad of the safe.

It should be a small, black button with the word “Reset” next to it. Push the button with the end of the hanger. You may hear a beeping sound or the control panel may light up when you press the reset button.

Disconnect the battery then press and hold down “0,” for about ten seconds then, connect the battery again then wait 5 seconds and try your code again.

What does the yellow light mean on Winchester safe?

A low battery is indicated by a yellow light.