Choosing the Right Tension Tool for Picking Regular Deadbolts and Cheap Master Locks
Tension tools are a critical component when locksmithing, especially when it comes to picking locks. The dimensions of the tool can greatly influence the success of your lock-picking. This article provides guidelines on the width and thickness of tension tools, as well as additional tips that will help you choose the most effective tool for your needs.
General Guidelines for Tension Tools
When selecting a tension tool, the width and thickness can vary based on the specific lock you are working with. Here are the general recommendations for both regular deadbolt locks and cheap Master Locks.
Regular Deadbolt Lock
Width: Approximately 0.05 to 0.1 inches (1.3 to 2.5 mm). A wider tool can offer more torque, but it can also hinder precision if it is too wide.
Thickness: Around 0.02 to 0.03 inches (0.5 to 0.8 mm). A thinner tool enables easier insertion into the keyway, making it more suitable for precise work.
Cheap Master Lock
Width: About 0.05 to 0.08 inches (1.3 to 2.0 mm). Similar to deadbolt locks, this width should provide enough leverage without obstructing the pins.
Thickness: Generally 0.02 to 0.03 inches (0.5 to 0.8 mm). Again, thinner tools are preferred for better access to the lock mechanism.
Additional Tips for Picking Locks
Material: Use a strong and durable material such as stainless steel for the tension tool. This material is capable of withstanding the torque applied during the lock-picking process.
Shape: A slight curve or hook can help apply tension more comfortably, especially in tighter keyways. This design ensures that the tension tool can be maneuvered more effectively.
Experimenting with different sizes and shapes may be necessary to find the best fit for each specific lock. Every lock is unique, and you may need to adjust your tension tool to suit its particular characteristics.
Personal Experience and Tips
I, an individual who has taken a lock-picking course, have used these skills in real-life situations. Based on my experience, tension tools should be as thin and narrow as possible to leave as much room as possible for maneuverability. Most of the time, a small tension tool will suffice, but if you have a lock with spring tension or one that is rough and difficult to turn, you may need a larger and/or thicker tension tool.
I prefer thin tension bars with a lot of flex. The trick in picking locks is to feel the shear lines as you manipulate each pin. A thick, rigid tension tool tends to bind the cylinder too much or too little, making it difficult to achieve the necessary flexibility and sensitivity.
Some locks may require more tension than others. It is essential to experiment with different sizes to determine the right tension tool for the job. For example, when working with Master padlocks, a slightly stiffer tension bar may be more appropriate.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tension tool is crucial for successful lock-picking. By considering the width and thickness of the tool, as well as the material and shape, you can increase your chances of success. Whether you are dealing with a regular deadbolt lock or a cheap Master Lock, understanding these factors will help you choose the best tool for the job.