Tension

[GrzyWhop33]

Ok, so this is kind of a different tension question. Lately when picking, I have been using less and less tension. But here is where my problem lies, I'm so light on the tension, get all of the pins set, and can't figure out why it wont open, until I put more tension on, then like magic I'm in. Just wondering, does this happen to anybody else?

[smokingman]

Ok, so this is kind of a different tension question. Lately when picking, I have been using less and less tension. But here is where my problem lies, I'm so light on the tension, get all of the pins set, and can't figure out why it wont open, until I put more tension on, then like magic I'm in. Just wondering, does this happen to anybody else?

Sometimes this is because there is more spring resistance in the lock.
Some locks have no spring in the plug and others do,
the ones with a spring require a little more torque.
Some are dirtier than others and also require more torque.
A clean lock with no spring needs very little at all.
Also friction on the bolt (such as a poorly fitted deadbolt)
can cause it to be harder to turn as well.

[GWiens2001]

That is where 'pulsing' tension is helpful. Every few seconds, I increase tension to see if the lock is already picked.

Keep up the good work!

Gordon

[YouLuckyFox]

LOCK SPECIFIC:
With Master 1585's, once you turn the plug it turns 5 degrees and stops against the locking dog. A lot of new pickers don't realize the slight turn in the plug and the plug continues to feel tight even though it has been picked. Pulsing tension is a must for any lock that has spring counter-torsion on the plug itself.