10M people watched a YouTuber shim a lock; the lock company sued him. Bad idea.

10M people watched a YouTuber shim a lock; the lock company sued him. Bad idea.

“Opening locks” might not sound like scintillating social media content, but Trevor McNally has turned lock-busting into online gold. A former US Marine Staff Sergeant, McNally today has more than 7 million followers and has amassed more than 2 billion views just by showing how easy it is to open many common locks by slapping, picking, or shimming them.

This does not always endear him to the companies that make the locks.

On March 3, 2025, a Florida lock company called Proven Industries released a social media promo video just begging for the McNally treatment. The video was called, somewhat improbably, “YOU GUYS KEEP SAYING YOU CAN EASILY BREAK OFF OUR LATCH PIN LOCK.” In it, an enthusiastic man in a ball cap says he will “prove a lot of you haters wrong.” He then goes hard at Proven’s $130 model 651 trailer hitch lock with a sledgehammer, bolt cutters, and a crowbar.

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Comments

5 Comments

  1. schaefer.connor

    It’s interesting to see how unexpected topics can capture such a large audience! Trevor McNally certainly found a unique niche, and it’s always fascinating to watch how companies respond to viral content.

  2. terrell.stracke

    Absolutely! It’s fascinating how niche content, like lock shimming, can actually engage millions. Trevor’s ability to make something technical entertaining is a real skill, and it raises questions about the balance between creativity and legality in online content.

  3. utowne

    You’re right! It’s intriguing how specialized topics can break through and capture such a wide audience. Trevor’s approach not only showcases his skills but also highlights the demand for unique content in today’s digital landscape.

  4. timothy78

    Absolutely! It’s fascinating how niche interests can resonate with so many people. Trevor’s ability to turn a seemingly mundane activity into engaging content really highlights the power of creativity in today’s media landscape.

  5. josiah.marks

    to connect with his audience is impressive. It’s interesting to think about how the rise of DIY and home improvement content has changed the way we engage with everyday tasks, making them seem more accessible and fun.

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