*Solved* Is my lock broken or am I stupid?

[Womanz098]

Hello,

I'm a beginner to picking locks but so far I've picked all the spare padlocks at my disposal multiple times (around 6 locks). Except for one. I've spent hours on this lock but every time I think that the pins are set and the tension wrench begins to move a little, nothing happens. I release the tension a little and try again but still nothing. I count the pins over and over and I am sure it is 5. Every time I release the tension, I count around five clicks too. There also seems to be a pin that rarely stays up no matter how much tension I apply. Am I doing something wrong or should I just go get more locks and stop wasting my time on this one?

The lock seems to be an old one because I can't find it on Masterlocks' website anywhere. It is most similar to the 141DLFSOLID BODY PADLOCK 1-9/16in (40mm) Wide Covered Solid Body Padlock with 1-1/2in (38mm) Shackle.

I thank anyone who is willing to help.

[Gantry]

I've be on this site for MANY years however I don't post too often but your post intrigues me with your use of a poll. I will NOT vote however as your asking the wrong questions to be voted on. It sound like your lock has one or more spool pins (when these are partially set they allow the core to turn but not open the lock). Not knowing how to do or know something doesn't make you stupid (knowing something and not caring if you do it right or not makes you stupid). What you should have asked is not if your stupid but " Do I need to learn more before opening this lock" (Answer: Yes) or "is the lock broken". Watch some video's on picking spool pins and I bet you'll get it open!

[Squelchtone]

Removed poll, the poll was stupid.

You are not stupid. Don't disparage yourself like that.

Keep practicing, each lock has its own tolerances and personality, even if it is the same model you have already picked over and over before.

Squelchtone

[GWiens2001]

If the lock you mention is the same/similar to the model 141DLFSOLID BODY PADLOCK you mentioned, it has an aluminum body. That model picks weird. Lube the lock and you may find yourself more successful.

Gordon

[Womanz098]

Thank you to everyone who replied with advice and for being so supportive. I have learned what spool pins are and have picked the lock in under seven minutes now. I let the frustration of working on the lock get to me but you all were kind and helped me learn. I will try to be less harsh on lyself and hopefully help others in the future.