How to Lockpick an Abus 55/40

The ABUS 55/40 is a solid brass padlock from the ABUS 55 series, known for its affordability and moderate security. It’s a compact lock with a 40mm body, a hardened steel shackle, and a double-bolt locking mechanism. Typically, it features a 5-pin tumbler cylinder with standard pins, though some units may include one serrated pin for added difficulty. This makes it a straightforward yet satisfying pick for beginners or intermediates. Here’s how to lockpick it, based on its common design and lockpicking community feedback.

You’ll need a basic lockpicking kit: a tension wrench and a pick. A short hook or half-diamond pick works well for the paracentric keyway, and a thinner pick (0.020–0.025-inch thickness) is ideal due to the tight tolerances typical of ABUS locks. Both of these picks can be found in our Trainee 2.0 or our Carbon Fiber Special if you like a luxurious pick.

Steps to Pick the ABUS 55/40

1. Tension Setup: Insert the tension wrench at the top of the keyway (TOK tensioning) to maximize picking space in the narrow keyway. Apply light, steady pressure clockwise—most ABUS 55-series locks turn this way, but test counterclockwise if it resists. The double-bolt mechanism adds slight resistance, so keep tension minimal to avoid over-binding the pins.
2. Pin Assessment: Probe the pins from back to front with your pick. The 55/40 usually has 5 pins—standard key pins made of brass, with a small chance of one serrated pin (often in position 2 or 3). Feel for binding pins: standard pins set with a clean click, while a serrated pin, if present, may give a false set (a click that doesn’t fully align at the shear line).
3. Picking Process: Lift each binding pin in order. For standard pins, apply gentle upward pressure until they set—brass pins give clear tactile feedback. If you encounter a serrated pin, push past the initial click or grind to the true set point; reduce tension slightly if it sticks. Work systematically, noting the binding order, and reset if a pin oversets (common with tight tolerances).
4. Feedback and Adjustment: The shackle’s spring tension can mask the core turning, so pulse tension lightly after each pin sets to test progress. If the lock feels locked up, ease off tension—too much pressure is a frequent issue with this design. The brass body transmits feedback well, making it easier to feel sets than with aluminum locks.
5. Opening: Once all 5 pins align at the shear line, the core will rotate. Apply firm torque to overcome the double-bolt mechanism and shackle spring. The shackle should pop open with a satisfying click.

Tips and Challenges

• Keyway: The paracentric keyway is slightly restrictive but manageable with a thin pick. TOK tensioning is key—bottom-of-keyway (BOK) can work but crowds the space.
• Security Features: Most 55/40s lack spool pins, but a serrated pin (if included) adds a minor challenge. False sets are subtle—listen for a crisp drop past the initial click.
• Difficulty: Rated as a beginner-to-intermediate pick (white or yellow belt in lockpicking terms). Takes 5–15 minutes for novices, 1–5 minutes with practice.
• Raking Option: A city rake can pop it open quickly if no serrated pins are present—wiggle with light tension and see if luck strikes. Otherwise, single-pin picking (SPP) is reliable.
• Practice: Pick it with the shackle open first to reduce spring tension and get a feel for the pins. The brass construction makes feedback consistent.

Notes on the 55/40

The ABUS 55/40 is a step up from cheaper locks but not as tricky as high-security models like the 83-series or Titalium 80TI. Its simplicity—5 standard pins, occasional light security—makes it a great learning tool. Variations exist (e.g., keyed-alike versions or regional differences), but the core technique holds.