Ever seen a lock with a round key and thought what wizardry it is? That’s a tubular lock, although some folks call it an Ace, barrel, or circle pin tumbler lock. It’s the go-to gadget for vending machines, laundry rooms, and even some high-security setups.
Despite looking like something from a sci-fi movie, tubular locks are fairly simple in concept. However, their unique design makes them trickier to pick and perfect for niche uses.
In this locksmith prepared guide, we’ll walk you through what makes tubular keys tick, their history, uses, and even what to do if you’ve lost one.
What Exactly is a Tubular Key and Lock?
Let’s start with the basics. A tubular lock is a type of pin tumbler lock that arranges its pins in a circular pattern rather than a straight line (hence, the name). These locks use a tube-shaped key with grooves on the outside that align with these circular pins.
Standard keys slide in straight and turn. Meanwhile, tubular keys press the pins inward with key rotation. They generally have between 4 and 10 pins. That makes them compact and efficient. Ask any locksmith and they’ll tell you that tubular keys look cool. More importantly, these keys offer a decent level of security when installed correctly.
What are Tubular Keys Used For?
Locksmiths consider tubular keys the secret agents of the lock world. You’ll find them guarding everything from:
- Vending machines
- Laundromats
- Bicycle locks
- ATM cash boxes
- Store display cabinets
- Elevators
Why? Because they’re shorter, easy to operate, and pretty tough to tamper with. Tubular keys are especially handy for business owners who want to keep their equipment secure without spending a fortune. Moreover, many locksmiths recommend tubular locks for affordable theft prevention in commercial settings.
Though not as common in UK homes, tubular locks and keys are still great for specific uses like garages, tool sheds, or any outbuilding where you need extra peace of mind.
How Did Tubular Locks Begin?
It was the Chicago Lock Company that gave the world its first tubular lock in 1933. It quickly gained popularity in commercial markets, and by the ’60s and ’70s, it was even being used in residential homes.
But as with all good things, the rise of better lock-picking tools and smarter burglars challenged its reputation in the 1980s. Locksmiths became aware of its vulnerabilities, and tubular locks lost some of their sparkle in home security.
However, lock manufacturers like Ace and Van Lock Company didn’t give up, refining and evolving the cylindrical design for specialised applications. Today, tubular locks still pop up in places where reliability and pick-resistance matter, like slot machines in the gambling industry.
Ask any seasoned locksmith and they’ll confirm that modern tubular locks (while not invincible) can still be a solid choice for the right scenario.
How Does a Tubular Lock Work (Without Getting Too Nerdy)?
The mechanics are surprisingly elegant. Tubular keys have a hollow, cylindrical shape with ridges jutting around their edges. When you insert the key, its grooves push in the radially-arranged pins.
Tubular locks work horizontally. Opening the lock requires rotating the plug. You can only achieve this if all pins are in perfect alignment with the shear line.
Need to pick one? Better call a locksmith. These locks are notoriously hard to crack without damaging them, especially the high-security models.
What’s the Smart and Cool Design of a Tubular Lock?
If you were to take a tubular lock apart (which we don’t advise unless you’re a trained locksmith), you’d find a plug, housing, driver pins, and key pins arranged in a circle. As the key slots into the central hole, it pushes each pin to a certain depth.
When all pins align just right, the plug can spin freely, unlocking the mechanism. It’s essentially the same logic as traditional locks, just wrapped in a sleek, cylindrical package.
Many locksmiths love tubular locks for their mechanical simplicity and reliability, especially in devices that get frequent use or need fast access.
Are Tubular Locks Actually Secure?
Tubular locks are secure. However, they do come with some caveats.
Locksmiths recommend them for quick emergency access, thanks to an interior turn mechanism (great in buildings where fast exit is a must).
Some higher-end tubular locks feature hardened steel pins or deadbolts. That makes drilling them open a real pain for burglars. You can also find them with key-in-knob or key-in-lever options, with or without emergency overrides.
While they’re not the Fort Knox of locks, many locksmiths agree that tubular locks strike a good balance between price and protection. They’re more than enough, especially when you’re securing something like a tool cabinet or vending machine.
What to Do If You Lose Your Tubular Key?
Whatever you do, don’t reach for a screwdriver when you realise you lost your tubular keys.
Instead, call a professional locksmith. They’ve got the tools (and know-how) to open the lock without breaking it. In fact, many locksmiths carry specialised tubular lock picks and decoders to quickly and safely solve the issue.
A locksmith can also rekey or replace the lock for you, often on the same day (especially in emergency situations or commercial settings).
Final Thoughts: Tubular Locks Deserve a Second Look
Tubular locks may not be your top choice when upgrading home security. However, their clever design, budget-friendly pricing, and unique use cases make them a worthwhile option. These locks might just be the round peg you didn’t know you needed.
Just remember that no lock is unbeatable. Nevertheless, tubular locks can be a solid line of defence against unwanted access, with the right setup and a locksmith you trust.
Locksmiths say tubular locks are like the cousin of traditional locks (slightly offbeat, surprisingly dependable, and always interesting). That’s not a bad reputation to have in the world of locks.
