How to Open a Barrel Lock

Barrel locks are the types of locks used on vending machines, computers and ATM machines. They look like small, circular indentations and they require a special key to open. These locks are also quite secure, requiring a special kind of lock pick if they're going to be opened without a key. Locksmiths can open these barrel locks, and so can owners if they're willing to invest the time and energy in getting a barrel lock pick and learning to use it.

Things You'll Need

• 8 pin barrel lock pick

Instructions

1. Push out the shims in your barrel lock pick. The shims are the metal picks that you'll be pushing into the lock to pick it. If you have an eight pin barrel lock, then push out all eight pins, but if it's only a seven pin lock, then don't push out the last pin.

2. Insert your pick into the barrel lock just like you would a key. Gently turn the pick back and forth, wiggling the pins to put pressure against the pins in the barrel lock at various angles and strengths.

3. Pull the pick out slowly while wiggling it. The barrel lock pick should be able to maintain enough pressure that the barrel lock comes open if you can maintain gentle pressure and urge the lock outward. In order to just use the same lock pick without re-sizing, write down the measurements for how far the pins are extended. Then you can re-size the pins and just pick the lock as if you had the key.

Tips & Warnings

• Only open barrel locks that you own, or that you have permission to open.

References

• Lock Pick Guide: Pop/Vending Machine Lock Pick