Tubular locks are commonly seen on bicycle locks (such as the Kryptonite lock), Kensington computer locks, elevators, and a variety of coin-operated devices such as vending machines, and coin-operated washing machines.
Tubular locks offer superior protection to pin-tumbler locks and wafer-tumbler locks, but they are also more expensive. 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.
Because tubular locks are so complex, they cannot be picked in the same way as other locks. Using a lock pick is the only verified way to open a tubular lock without the key so, if you have time to spare, purchase a pick to open your tubular lock.
Instead, tubular locks have universal keys designed for each lock type or model. Most manufacturers produce these locks in versions, providing a single key to access all the locks under it. Thus, it prevents the use of different keys to access the tubular lock and further heightening its security.
Tubular locks are commonly seen on bicycle locks (such as the Kryptonite lock), Kensington computer locks, elevators, and a variety of coin-operated devices such as vending machines, and coin-operated washing machines.
Just like regular keys, tubular keys are distinct, so you need the model and identification number from the machine when you contact the manufacturer.
The most common vending machine keys are either tubular or flat. The tubular version, sometimes referred to as a barrel key, has a hollow, cylindrical shaft with grooves of varying length cut into the exterior surface at the end of the shaft.
A tubular lock has its latch bolt and dead bolt in two separate holes. In a mortise lock, both bolts are encased in a steel box that fits in one hole.
Tubular locks often found where higher security is needed such as high security bicycle locks, vending machines, and fire safes. Tubular lock picks come in several different configurations to work on the various configurations of of tubular locks. The most common configuration is the 7 pin centered arrangement.
Tubular locks have a variety of pins arranged in a circular pattern, most tubular locks use 7 or 8 pins, some may even have off set pins. The Tubular Lock Picks have feeler picks that spiral the tube and correspond to pins in a tubular lock.
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.
You might be able to take apart a mechanical pencil and use some of the sturdier metal components to pick a lock, but a wooden pencil probably wouldn't work. However, you can use pencil lead to lubricate a sticky lock if you don't have powdered graphite on hand!
The Chateau C-480-BK-OL Overlock Key for Red Lined Cylinder Locks works specifically with this lock cylinder to block access from original key for that cylinder. Ideal solution for property/facility owner with a delinquent or non-paying tenant. (Prevents access. Original cylinder key still required to unlock.)
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
Picking the Lock
Try inserting the wire or paper clip carefully into your lock's keyhole. Once you feel a little resistance, indicating the wire has been inserted fully, carefully twist the wire. If you feel the lock bolt move into the open position, you've successfully picked the lock.
Tubular locks are commonly found on all types of doors and are ideally suited for new (post-1950's) pre-drilled doors. Tubular locks have a spindle assembly that extends into or through the center of the latch, allowing for retraction of the latch bolt when the lever or knob is rotated.
Tubular Door Locks: In a tubular lock, the mechanism for retracting the lock bolt is part of the latch assembly. The outside lock chassis has either a square or half-round extension which passes through this mechanism for actuation.