Testing 2-way mirrors

To test for 2-way mirrors in restrooms, hotel rooms and changing rooms, we have been told to place the tip of a fingernail against the mirror and if there is a gap between the fingernail and the image of the nail, then it is a genuine mirror, if your fingernail directly touches the image of your nail it is a 2-way mirror. However, this "finger" test will only tell you if the mirror is a first-surface mirror or a second-surface.

You can further ascertain the nature of the suspect surface by hurling an object (e.g. a chair) at it. The chair will go through a 2-way mirror. However, if it turns out to be an ordinary mirror. Oops!!

Or carry a bright flashlight with you. To test the mirror turn off the lights in the room and place the flashlight against the mirror's surface. If there is a chamber on the other side the flashlight will illuminate it. If there is, then throw a chair at it!   

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