Pick Thickness needed for Schlage Keyway

[DaveD]

I am using a standard hook from Southord to learn SPP. I have some Kwikset locks and a Weiser lock and I can pick them for the most part. My problem is I cannot feel the pins in any of the Schlage locks I have. I have sanded down a pick and I still cannot cannot get the pick around the warding to feel the pins. The Southord set I have is MPSX-14 and I do not know how thick they are. The Schlage locks I am using is from Sparrows and a practice lock set from lockpickersmall.com. No matter what I do I cannot seem to get the pick to the pins. I must be doing something wrong. Can anyone give me any ideas on what I am missing or point me to some videos that may help me?

Thank You,

David

[GWiens2001]

A standard hook or diamond rake will fit into a standard Schlage lock. What it takes is practice.

I'd recommend taking apart one of the locks and pinning just the very back pin first. When you are used to that, pin the back two pins. When used to that, the back three. This is called progressive pinning.

Most people start by pinning the pins closest to the opening of the keyway. I recommend the way I described, pinning the pins deepest into the keyway. The reason for that is you learn to maneuver your pick within the warding (side grooves) of the keyway with just a pin or two to start. By the time you are able to pick the lock fully pinned, you are used to using the pick in the keyway.

Gordon

[DaveD]

Gordon,

Thank you, I have progressive locks, but they are pinned from the front. I will move them to the back and see how that works. I never thought of that, great idea.

Thank You,

David

[GWiens2001]

I was at your learning point once, too. Glad to help.

Gordon