Advice?

[jynx111]

Hi,
Anyone give me some good advice regarding key wards. I just started and can wip through a masterlock #3. I know 5 pin is a bit much for a beginner but my problem seems to be the ward. It seems to me I may possibly be hitting pins I shouldnt be because the ward. I guess my question is how far up do you usally have to push the binding pin and also by hitting the other pins in the process am I causing other stacks to bind. This my be a bit confusing the way its worded, sorry. I Usally am using a hook.

[linty]

i personally find a hook is a bit awkward to use in a small keyway, try a diamond or make yourself an extra small hook.

the distances you have to push the binding pin depends on the length of that pin. it could be anywhere between almost no movement at all and up to about 1/8" of movement.

[Exodus5000]

They also make slimline picks to deal with paracentric keyways and other heavy wardings. Yes you probably are setting other pin stacks if your pick is dragging across them. It mostly comes down to practice, you'll learn to deal with those stubborn wardings

[JackNco]

unlike most of the American members i prefer a slimline pick all the time. also you should learn to go between the wards at an angle

[raimundo]

like Jack said, slimlines all the time or your fighting the warding with thick picks made for too much force
and tilt the pick to accomodate that part of the warding you are passing through, then when you get to the pin drilling you can rotate that pick upright, with a tight keyway, like an 'american' padlock you will feel pins set even as you are rotating the pick. this is something that you wont experience with standard prybar picks.