Lock picks are essential tools for locksmiths and keeping them in optimal condition ensures their effectiveness and longevity. Best practices for cleaning and maintaining tubular lock picks are vital to prevent damage, improve performance, and extend the lifespan of these precision tools.
Regular care keeps your lock picks smooth and free from dirt and grime from locks that can accumulate in the picking needle grooves over time. Following proper maintenance techniques help to ensure smooth function of the pick, contributing to effective picking of locks.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools
Selecting the appropriate tools for cleaning your lock picks is the first step in proper maintenance. Use a soft cloth, gentle brush, or microfiber towel to remove dirt and debris without scratching the metal surface.
Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean excessive buildup in the tubular pick’s grooves, but avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as these can potentially cause damage to the lock pick or its parts, and compromise its performance.
Effective Cleaning Techniques
To clean your tubular lock pick, begin disassembling the pick by unscrewing the small set screw in the pick’s collar, then sliding the entire collar down off the pick. The picking needles released by the collar can then be wiped clean with a dry cloth, and a dry cloth or soft brush can be used to clean grime build-up in the grooves of the tubular pick’s body. For excessive build-up, a little rubbing alcohol can be applied to the cloth before wiping the grooves.
To reassemble the pick, fit the collar onto the end of the tubular pick body with the knurled collar nut toward the end of the pick tube. Slide the picking needles back into the pick’s grooves and under the collar, then pull the collar back up the pick. Line the set screw hole in the collar with the dimple on the side of the pick’s body. Screw the set screw back into the collar completely, then turn it back ½ turn to keep the collar free-floating yet attached to the pick. Maintaining a regular cleaning routine will ensure your tool stays reliable and efficient.
Storing and Maintaining Your Lock Picks
Proper storage is as important as cleaning and maintaining your tubular pick. Store your tubular lock pick in the original box, or in a protective container to protect it from damage or debris.
To conclude, best practices for cleaning and maintaining tubular lock picks are indispensable for ensuring top-notch performance. When using your tubular practice lock from SouthOrd, regular cleaning and maintenance can help ensure a more smooth and efficient picking experience. .