Unlocking the Mystery: A Comprehensive Guide to Picking Tubular Locks

Tubular locks, also known as barrel locks or circular key locks, are commonly found on vending machines, bicycle locks, and even some computer locks. Their unique design, featuring a circular arrangement of pins, can make them seem daunting to pick. However, with the right tools, knowledge, and a bit of practice, you can learn to open these locks without the original key. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of understanding tubular locks, selecting the right tools, and mastering the techniques for successful picking.

Understanding Tubular Locks

Before diving into the picking process, it’s essential to understand how a tubular lock works. Unlike standard pin tumbler locks, which have pins arranged in a linear fashion, tubular locks have pins arranged in a circle around a central core. Typically, these locks have seven or eight pins.

* **Key Design:** The tubular key has a circular shape with indentations corresponding to the pin heights. When the correct key is inserted, it pushes each pin to the correct height, allowing the lock cylinder to rotate.
* **Internal Mechanism:** Inside the lock, each pin sits above a corresponding spring. When no key is inserted, the springs push the pins downwards, blocking the cylinder from turning. When the correct key is inserted, it compresses the springs and aligns the pins, allowing the cylinder to rotate.
* **Challenges:** The circular arrangement of pins and the need to simultaneously manipulate multiple pins makes tubular locks more challenging to pick than standard pin tumbler locks. However, they are not impenetrable.

Tools of the Trade

To pick a tubular lock, you’ll need specialized tools. The primary tool is a **tubular lock pick**, which is designed to mimic the function of a tubular key. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools:

* **Tubular Lock Pick:** This tool consists of a hollow cylinder with spring-loaded needles or pins inside. These needles can be adjusted to different heights, mimicking the indentations of a tubular key. High-quality picks are made of durable materials like hardened steel to withstand repeated use.

* **7-Pin vs. 8-Pin Picks:** Make sure to choose a pick that matches the number of pins in your lock. Most tubular locks have 7 pins, but some have 8. Using the wrong pick won’t work.

* **Adjustable vs. Preset Picks:** Adjustable picks allow you to set each pin height individually, offering more control. Preset picks have a fixed pin configuration and are designed for specific lock types. Adjustable picks are generally more versatile.

* **Tension Wrench (Optional but Recommended):** While not strictly necessary, a tension wrench can be helpful in applying slight rotational pressure to the lock cylinder, which can aid in setting the pins. A small Allen wrench can be used as a makeshift tension wrench, but a dedicated tension wrench will give you better control.

* **Lubricant (Optional):** A small amount of lubricant, such as graphite powder or a silicone-based lubricant, can help the pins move more freely and make the picking process smoother. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dirt and grime, eventually causing the lock to malfunction.

Step-by-Step Guide to Picking a Tubular Lock

Now that you understand the basics and have the necessary tools, let’s get into the step-by-step process of picking a tubular lock. Remember, patience and practice are key. It may take several attempts before you successfully pick a lock.

**Step 1: Preparing the Lock and Pick**

* **Lubricate the Lock (Optional):** If you choose to use lubricant, apply a small amount to the keyway of the lock. This will help the pins move more smoothly.
* **Insert the Tubular Lock Pick:** Carefully insert the tubular lock pick into the keyway of the lock. Ensure that the needles of the pick are fully retracted. You should feel the pick slide in smoothly without encountering significant resistance.

**Step 2: Setting the Initial Tension**

* **Apply Gentle Pressure:** Apply gentle inward pressure on the tubular lock pick. This pressure will help the needles engage with the pins.
* **Using a Tension Wrench (Optional):** If you’re using a tension wrench, insert it into the keyway alongside the tubular lock pick. Apply a very slight rotational pressure in the direction you would turn the key to unlock it. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can bind the pins and make picking more difficult. The amount of tension required is very minimal, it is only there to set the pins as they are picked.

**Step 3: Reading the Pins**

* **Rotate the Pick Slowly:** Slowly rotate the tubular lock pick while maintaining gentle inward pressure. As you rotate, pay close attention to the feel of each pin. You’ll feel the needles of the pick engage with the pins inside the lock.
* **Listen and Feel for Clicks:** As you rotate, listen carefully for subtle clicks. Each click indicates that a pin has been set to the correct height. The feel can be very subtle, so focus closely. You may also feel a slight give or movement in the pick as a pin is set.
* **Repeat for Each Pin:** Continue rotating the pick and listening for clicks until you’ve gone through all the pins. Remember the order in which you feel the clicks or resistance, as this will help you determine the correct pin heights.

**Step 4: Adjusting the Pin Heights**

* **Adjusting Adjustable Picks:** If you’re using an adjustable pick, you can now begin adjusting the height of each needle. Start with the first pin you felt click or resist. Adjust the corresponding needle on the pick slightly and try rotating the pick again.
* **Trial and Error:** This process involves a bit of trial and error. You’ll need to experiment with different pin heights until you find the correct combination. Make small adjustments and test the lock after each adjustment.
* **Preset Picks:** Preset picks are less forgiving. If you feel a significant amount of resistance, the pick may not be compatible with the lock, or you may need to apply more or less tension.

**Step 5: Rotating the Cylinder**

* **Maintain Tension:** As you adjust the pin heights, continue to apply gentle inward pressure on the pick and, if using one, slight rotational pressure with the tension wrench.
* **Feel for Movement:** As you get closer to the correct pin configuration, you should start to feel the cylinder begin to rotate slightly. This is a good sign that you’re on the right track.
* **Full Rotation:** Once all the pins are correctly set, the cylinder should rotate freely, and the lock should open. If the cylinder doesn’t rotate, double-check the pin heights and tension and try again.

**Step 6: Resetting and Repeating (If Necessary)**

* **If the Lock Doesn’t Open:** If you’ve gone through all the pins and the lock still doesn’t open, don’t get discouraged. Reset the pick by fully retracting the needles and starting the process again. You may have misread a pin or applied too much or too little tension.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Picking tubular locks takes practice. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at feeling the pins and adjusting the pick correctly.

Tips and Tricks for Successful Tubular Lock Picking

Here are some additional tips and tricks that can help you improve your success rate when picking tubular locks:

* **Use High-Quality Tools:** Investing in high-quality tools can make a significant difference. Cheap picks are more likely to break or bend, making the picking process more difficult and frustrating.
* **Apply Consistent Tension:** Maintaining consistent tension is crucial. Too much tension can bind the pins, while too little tension can prevent them from setting properly.
* **Listen Carefully:** Pay close attention to the sounds the lock makes as you rotate the pick. Subtle clicks can indicate that a pin has been set correctly.
* **Be Patient:** Picking tubular locks can take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t succeed immediately. Keep practicing, and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.
* **Start with Simple Locks:** If you’re new to lock picking, start with simpler tubular locks before moving on to more complex ones. This will help you develop your skills and build your confidence.
* **Visualize the Internal Mechanism:** Try to visualize the internal mechanism of the lock as you’re picking it. This can help you understand how the pins are interacting with the pick and make more informed adjustments.
* **Take Breaks:** If you’re feeling frustrated, take a break and come back to it later. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make all the difference.
* **Practice on Transparent Locks:** Consider purchasing a transparent practice lock. These locks allow you to see the internal mechanism in action, which can greatly improve your understanding of how tubular locks work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes that beginners make when picking tubular locks:

* **Applying Too Much Tension:** This is one of the most common mistakes. Too much tension can bind the pins and make it impossible to pick the lock. Use very light tension.
* **Using the Wrong Tools:** Using the wrong type of pick or a low-quality pick can make the picking process much more difficult.
* **Rushing the Process:** Picking tubular locks requires patience and precision. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and frustration.
* **Ignoring the Feedback from the Lock:** Pay close attention to the sounds and feel of the lock as you’re picking it. This feedback can provide valuable clues about the pin heights.
* **Not Practicing Enough:** Lock picking is a skill that requires practice. The more you practice, the better you’ll become.

Ethical Considerations

It’s important to emphasize that lock picking should only be practiced on locks that you own or have permission to pick. Picking locks without permission is illegal and unethical. Lock picking skills should be used for legitimate purposes, such as gaining entry to your own property when you’ve lost your keys or for security testing.

Conclusion

Picking tubular locks can be a challenging but rewarding skill. With the right tools, knowledge, and practice, you can learn to open these locks without the original key. Remember to be patient, pay attention to the feedback from the lock, and always practice ethically. By following the steps outlined in this guide and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of tubular lock picking. Good luck, and happy picking!