Pin-Tumbler Locks

Your most common option

Pin-tumbler locks are the most common type of fastener found in residences in North America. They’re most often installed right into a door knob and are activated by turning a small latch or dial on the inside.

There are two different types of locks found under this name: pin-tumbler locks and tubular-pin tumbler locks. Traditional pin-tumbler locks use a typical flat key to operate the latch or bolt, while tubular pin versions use round keys.

How it Works

Pin tumbler locks actually have quite a simple design. There are pins inside the mechanism that sit in certain positions to allow it to turn and release the latch or bolt that’s securing the door. The proper key will position the pins just so that the lock is able to be released. The wrong key will leave the pins in disarray and the device won’t function.

Tubular-pin tumbler locks work in a similar fashion, except the pins are organized into a circular arrangement.

Why it Might Not Work

Marc Weber Tobias suggests that pin-tumbler locks are the easiest type of lock to pick. While tubular models are a little more secure, with the right tools, it’s actually quite easy to get the pins to fall into the right position and open the lock without using a key.

There are two incredibly easy ways to get through a pin tumbler lock:

• Pick and tension wrench
• Lock bumping

Pick and Tension Wrench

To manipulate the pins into their proper position you can use a tension wrench to allow access to the pins and a pick to push each pin into its place individually. There’s usually a small click when the pin has been pushed into the right place so it’s easy to keep track of how far you’ve worked through the lock.

Lock Bumping

If you’re going to bump a lock, you’ll take a blank key and file the grooves down to the lowest point. The key is inserted into a security device and then ‘bumped’ with a rubber mallet or some other kind of tool. This pushes the pins into place and the lock is easily opened.

A Good Defense

Although it’s been proven that pin-tumbler locks are quite easy to manipulate they still offer security for home owners. Most would be criminals are deterred by the slightest impediment so the mere presence of a security device will keep them away. Your own vigilancewill also help to make the pin-tumbler lock more secure.