Abstract: A cylindrical tensioning device fits over a fixed shaft against a rotatable bobbin containing a supply of wire such as used in a wire braiding machine. The device includes an outer tensioning section cylinder enclosing a spring supported between two bushings. A fixed bushing at one end holds an external friction pad which engages the end of the bobbin to apply a force that controls the tension on the wire drawn from the bobbin. A locking section at the other end includes a smaller outer cylinder enclosing another spring around an inner cylinder. The spring is held between an end of the outer cylinder and a ridge on the inner cylinder. The other end of the inner cylinder includes holes holding ball bearings which are slidable along the shaft. A wedged ring fits over the inner cylinder and bearings. The other end of the smaller outer cylinder is press fit within the other bushing which is movable within the larger outer cylinder against the first spring.