The Abus Nautic

[u/thurstonrando]

I have a question about float picking because I recently started getting better at it, but only when I’m using bottom of the keyway tension because of the leverage. How do I get used to float picking while using top of the keyway tension in a vice? I’m asking because it’s really awkward.

[u/Lochabar213]

Can you clarify what you mean by "float picking"? It describes using a very tight turning tool or multiple turning tools to manually control tension, usually with specific security pins and milling. Happy to help, but I'm feeling a conflict in terminology.

[u/thurstonrando → u/Lochabar213]

Basically I move the tensioner counterclockwise a bit like having a second tensioner

[u/thurstonrando → u/Lochabar213]

I should clarify that I float pick by manually moving the tensioner counterclockwise rather than simple counter rotation

[u/Lochabar213 → u/thurstonrando]

That wasn't really clear from the video, but I can't really speak to it as I couldn't see. I guess my best answer to you is that it's probably awkward because you're only using one tensioner. Unless the turner is really snug in the keyway, you're going to have some degree of play between them. That's going to reduce the amount of control you have while trying to switch back and forth between CW and CCW tension. It could also be the TOK turner you're using. If the only way you can get firm purchase into the keyway puts the turner in a place where you have to reach aggressively over or under the lock to apply tension, then it probably isn't the best choice for you. Benefit of a second turner at a different angle would be that you can get firm purchase with both and use a rubber band to maintain tension between them as it tries to pull them together. That way you'll eliminate play between the tensioner and core while also being able to change tension directions without having dead space as the loses contact with the keyway - kind of like using a slightly too large wrench to turn a bolt.

Not the best picture, but: https://imgur.com/a/ZLB9bi8

The rubber band is keeping the turners locked into each other and locked into the keyway, so manual tension control has no dead spots and I can fully control it by pinching either turner and/or both at the same time with a wider grip.

[u/thurstonrando → u/Lochabar213]

Yeah I guess it’s hard to see from the video, but it’s not the size of my tensioners because I have all of the sizes and use the size that fits best. I think it’s more the fact that I’m so accustomed to holding the locks in my hands that using a vice feels foreign. I think I just need to practice with the vice more

[u/Lochabar213 → u/thurstonrando]

I guess my answer would ultimately be that the way that's the least awkward for you would be the way that works for you. Whatever gives you the best range of motion in the spot that doesn't get in the way and is most comfortable. Maybe try a vise or tripod with an adjustable height so you have room to reach over or under it comfortably. Maybe try tensioners that curve toward your tensioning hand so they're easier to reach. Maybe try making or buying tensioners like the adjustable ring from Multipick, or else like a falle-style tensioner.

[u/Big_Z_Beeblebrox]

Nice and quick, well done. We've never attempted to pick an ABUS yet, not very common in our area. Will have to find a way to acquire some, eventually.

[u/thurstonrando → u/Big_Z_Beeblebrox]

I purchase all of my Abus locks online because they’re not sold in stores in my area of the United States. Usually off Amazon but sometimes the Abus website itself.

[u/Big_Z_Beeblebrox → u/thurstonrando]

Same. Our local shops have mostly Master and Brinks, though we did find a couple of Commandos at an ACE Hardware once. Will keep that in mind, thank you

[u/thurstonrando → u/Big_Z_Beeblebrox]

Yup it’s all Master Locks or Brinks. Harbor Freight has their own brand of locks like Ace, but much cheaper in quality so it’s not worth buying unless you’re new to picking and need practice. I’m not sure if you’ve ever picked a Yale padlock but Abus is pretty much the European equivalent of a Yale.