Tubular locks offer a unique challenge for locksmith professionals and locksport enthusiasts. These locks, common on vending machines, cabinets, and bike locks, require a different technique than pin tumbler locks.
Opening them requires skill, but it’s possible to master the process with the right approach and awareness of common mistakes. Let’s explore the dos and don’ts of tubular lock picking to refine your skills and avoid pitfalls.
Do: Use the Correct Tools and Take Care of Them
Tubular lock picking demands precision, and using the appropriate tools is critical for success. Using a calibrated tubular lock pick designed for the diameter of the lock will give you good results. Your tools must match the lock’s pin configuration, including 7-pin center, 7-pin offset, 8-pin, and 10-pin varieties.
Routinely clean your tools to remove dirt, debris, or metal shavings. Regular maintenance ensures the optimal performance of the tools, so avoid compromising your work with poorly maintained gear.
Do: Practice Technique With Patience and Precision
Successful tubular lock picking depends on refined techniques. Adjust the tension on the picking needles as needed, and reset the picking needles with each picking attempt. Feeling for the pins to set in order to determine when the lock has been picked can improve your performance.
Patience is essential; rushing through the process can hinder your success and lead to frustration. Practice on a variety of locks to understand the subtle differences between them.
Logging your experiences can help you identify patterns and improve outcomes over time. Seasoned professionals understand that consistent practice develops muscle memory and an intuitive sense for a lock’s feedback.
Don’t: Force the Tool or Apply Excessive Pressure
Excessive force can damage the lock and the picking tool. Tilting the pick in the lock or applying too much torque when picking distorts the feel of the pins and may result in bending or breaking the tool’s sensitive components.. A heavy hand indicates a lack of familiarity or confidence, which can hinder rather than help your progress.
Light, controlled movements provide clearer feedback from the lock. Always let the tool do the work, and resist the temptation to apply heavy pressure when the lock doesn’t open quickly. Remember: A lock will not open until it is completely picked.
Don’t: Overlook the Importance of Lock Condition
Ignoring the lock’s condition can lead to wasted effort. Dirt, rust, or corrosion inside the lock can obstruct the pins and distort feedback, making picking far more difficult. Before attempting to pick a lock, inspect it for wear or contamination.
Applying a non-invasive lubricant can ease movement without damaging internal components. When a lock feels unusually resistant, consider whether its condition is the limiting factor instead of your technique. Paying attention to lock maintenance ensures fair testing conditions, eases the difficulty of picking it, and can reduce potential damage to the tool.
Mastering the dos and don’ts of tubular lock picking enhances your ability to approach locks with professionalism. With these pointers, locksmiths and locksport enthusiasts can elevate their skills. Incorporating a tubular lock impressioning tool from SouthOrd into your toolkit can be valuable for advanced practice.