How Do You Pick a Tubular Lock Without Tools? Understanding Tubular Locks

Tubular locks are high-security locks designed to resist picking and drilling. They use a round tubular key with cuts on the outside to correspond with the pins arranged in a circle within the lock itself.

Picking a Tubular Lock

Tubular locks are nearly impossible to pick without the right set of tools. However, with the proper tools, such as a tubular or circle lock pick, you can easily map the pins and pick this type of lock.

Tools and Technique

  • Take your tubular lock-picking kit and verify that your pick has the correct number of needles for your lock’s pins.
  • Insert the pick slowly, ensuring the needles align with the pins.
  • Use a tension wrench to apply rotational force while lifting the pins with the pick until the lock opens.

Remember to use proper safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.

Alternate Opening Methods

Using a Ballpoint Pen

  • Find a ballpoint pen that is the same diameter as the lock’s pin.
  • Insert the pen into the keyway and apply pressure to the back of the plug.
  • Notch the back of the pen with scissors to provide flexibility for opening the lock.

Drilling the Lock

  • Using a hole-saw drill bit, ensure the drill bit’s diameter matches the lock, typically 0.375 in or 0.394 in.
  • Drill steadily to shear the locking mechanism until you feel the drill shift positions, indicating that the lock is broken.

To protect against drilling, many tubular locks have hardened steel middle pins or a ball bearing.

Conclusion

While tubular locks can be picked or drilled open, it is a process that requires patience and practice. It is advised to use specialized tools designed for tubular locks, and with experience, these can open locks quickly and effortlessly. For secure locks, it may be necessary to consult an expert locksmith.

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