To open a tubular lock with its original key, you must align the key's guide tab with the lock's corresponding notch and insert it fully to reach the internal shear line.
Tubular locks are relatively easy to pick compared to standard pin-tumbler locks. Using specialized tubular lock picks, you can often open them in a matter of seconds. However, their difficulty scales significantly depending on whether you are using proper tools, the type of lock, and if it has specific security features.
Commonly found in vending machines, ATMs, amusement machines, and bike locks, tubular locks are designed to provide a higher level of security compared to standard pin tumbler locks. Locksmiths and technicians know that with the right tubular lock pick tool, these locks can be opened quickly and efficiently.
Tubular keys are not universal. While they look similar—featuring a cylindrical, straw-like shape with small notches around the rim—each key is uniquely cut to match a specific lock's pin arrangement. A key that opens one vending machine or bike lock will not necessarily open another.
The key is a cylinder shape with notches cut around the outer or (rarely) inner edge. Each of these notches depresses a single pin inside the lock to a specific height allowing the lock cylinder to turn freely.
Cons. Less secure: While adequate for basic security needs, tubular locks are generally less secure than mortise locks. They can be more easily tampered with or bypassed. Lower durability: Tubular locks may not hold up as well in high-traffic or high-security areas.
Picking a tubular lock with a BIC pen involves using the pen's plastic barrel to deform around the lock's pins, creating a temporary key. This method works by inserting a hollowed-out, slightly heated, or notched BIC pen into the keyway and applying pressure to turn the barrel.
Certain lock varieties force locksmiths to risk damage during opening procedures, including digital vault systems, mechanical combination safes, and fingerprint-activated locks. These security devices demand specialized equipment or advanced opening techniques that standard locksmith tools cannot handle.
A tubular lock, also known as a radial or Ace lock, is a pin tumbler lock with a circular keyway and a cylindrical key.
Tubular locks typically contain 7 or 8 pins arranged in a circular pattern. While 7-pin and 8-pin locks are the most common standard, some specialized or higher-security versions can use as few as 4 or as many as 10 pins.
Instead of one row of pins, tubular locks have pins positioned all the way around the circumference of the cylinder plug. This makes them much harder to pick. Conventional lock-picking techniques usually don't work on this type of lock. Some pin-tumbler locks have modified pins that make picking more difficult.
For beginners or those seeking the easiest, most foolproof method, a Lishi tool is the easiest pick tool available.
To force a lock open, choose a method based on the lock type: credit card (for standard spring-latch doors), lock picking (for pin-tumbler locks), or cutting/shimming (for padlocks). Always ensure you have the legal right to access the lock before proceeding.
To unlock a tubular (circular) lock, use a specialized tubular lock pick. This tool has small "feeder pins" that match the lock's pins and automatically set them as you apply gentle tension.
Step 1: How a Tubular Lock Works
The shape of the key is circular, open in the center, and has grooves that are cut into the outsides of the circular shape. Once the key has been fitted correctly in the keyhole, it will depress the key pins to the correct depth and the key can be turned opening the lock.
Hold the tension wrench twisted in the correct direction and insert the rake into the lock where the teeth of the keys would go. Push and pull the rake out of the lock, twisting it and working by feel. Twist the tension wrench in the correct direction, and the lock should spring open!
Answer: A piano.
It can be picked. There are tools made specifically to pick tubular locks like that. However, this particular lock is missing the indexing notch on the center post and appears not to be a standard diameter meaning that the common tools won't fit, requiring a more difficult approach that some locksmiths may not know.
Yes, you can pick a standard pin-and-tumbler lock using bobby pins. It requires two bobby pins: one to act as a tension tool and another to act as a pick. However, the metal can snap and permanently jam the lock, so it requires patience, a delicate touch, and practice.
Bic pens actually feature two distinct holes. The hole in the cap is primarily a life-saving safety feature. The hole in the pen's main barrel has an entirely different, functional purpose.