cheap circular tension tool

[victorylocksmith]

i found a super cheap circular tension tool for only $34!!!!! It is the one with adjustable prongs for any keyway, tick marks to see how much tension is used, and i believe has the spring for the circular dial. I know a lot of people think that this is just a novelty item but, I believe at $34 not including shipping, it is a steal compared to some other places that charge $50-60+.

http://americankeysupply.com/index.php? ... cts_id=886

[allan501]

I have one of these and like it. The spring loaded prongs hold fairly well in the keyway without using up much space. Also because you are working through the ring it doesn't interfere with using the picks.

I do find that it is a bit awkward with a hand held lock but I think that is just because I need more practice with it.

[KPick]

Cool. How'd those work for you guys. Bosnian bill let his audience know about them. He said they aren't that useful though, but I would like to hear other opinions relative to the tool. I wanted one ever since they came out just to try it.

[victorylocksmith]

Cool. How'd those work for you guys. Bosnian bill let his audience know about them. He said they aren't that useful though, but I would like to hear other opinions relative to the tool. I wanted one ever since they came out just to try it.

might as well pony up the cash for it! its only $34 plus shipping, maybe if you buy some lishi automotive picks you can get the free shipping with the $100+ order.

[allan501]

KPick

He doesn't seem to like any double prong tools but I will see what I can add.

The tool doesn't register against the lock face but I don't see that as a problem. I hold the tool between my thumb and forefinger so it doesn't rock. I find the spring pressure against the top and bottom of the keyway also holds fairly well. I also feel that the thumb and forefinger grip encourages me to use lighter tension but that is a personal feeling.

He says that it doesn't give that much more room but I find on a keyways like schlage the extra space makes a big difference.

You do have to hold the pick out further but I think he overstates it. At least I haven't noticed a significant difference.

He doesn't mention it but the tool is fairly bulky so you probably won't want to carry it in a pocket kit but it is fine on a bench or in a toolkit.

I am still a beginner on this so take this with a grain of salt but I like it.

[spandexwarrior]

Are the prongs adjustable for width? Personal preference aside, I see this being limited to 'standard' sized keyways if there is no adjustment.

-Brian

[allan501]

Adjustable. Roughly 1/4" to 3/8".

[billdeserthills]

I have the more expensive hpc torque & tension tool and it sits in my toolbox unused for over a decade. Thing is I just never did like it and I think you can get farther with an hpc tr-4 and practice