Practice question

[MortimerDuke]

When practicing (particularly on padlocks) I will periodically unlock/lock it with the key if I'm having a difficult time,then start over. Does using the key reset the pins in a way that simply relieving tension on the cylinder doesn't, or is the benefit all in my mind?

[cyrano138]

As long as it's functioning properly, there's no difference. It is good, however, to put it down once in a while and take a break, so whatever gets you to break and relax for a bit from time to time is probably a good thing.

Jack

[gibson]

probably just a mental thing - but then a lot of picking has to do with attitude. on a practical level, playing with the key gives you an idea of exactly how much turning pressure is needed to open the lock. also, if you're having a hard time with a particular lock, looking at the key will give you an idea of how the locked is bitted - a low pin behind a high pin for example.

[MortimerDuke]

Thanks for the replies. At this stage, provided the lock isn't way out of my league, my mental state and attitude seem to be the biggest determinants between a quick success or a slow frustration.

[raimundo]

if you are using the kind of picks that come out of the lock with fine brass dust on them because they are abrasive, it could be that the dust and the scratches on the pins and their chambers are causeing some hangups that are cleared just by cycling a key through it a couple of times

[Annuit Coeptis]

I do that too. Except I think I do it because I enjoy the sound of the lock popping open; I've learned to associate that sound with success and I like succeeding so hearing the sound motivates me to want to do it on my own with picks.

[Buzo]

Whenever I get frustrated with a lock I have to remind myself to take it slow. Be as deliberate as possible with each step. Treat each set pin as a victory and know that it is one step closer to opening the lock. Once you are sure that the pin is set and that you have done it slow enough that you haven't over picked that pin, move on to the next pin and repeat. Thinking about each set pin as sucess helps to aleviate the frustration and will eventually get the lock open providing you haven't run into unfamilliar territory such as security pins.