Master #3 questions??

[thelockpickkid]

ok, just like the other guy on here, I have been having trouble picking the #3, I can pick a # 5 real easy (5 to ten seconds) I am new at this also, My first was the #5 and its easy, I can't get the #3 I have tried in both directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, used different picks, and tension, and I just can't get it. Does anybody have any ideas? this lock is older, should I use lube?

[LeeNo]

Do you have the key to the #3 you are trying to pick?

If so, does the first cut look very deep?
If not, do you know the lock actually works?

Have you felt all the pins individually with a hook or diamond and know that they are functional?

The #3 is a very straight-forward lock to pick. Assuming you have a known-functional lock and the first pin isn't cut far deeper than the rest of the pins and the first setting pin then it all comes down to basic technique (I say "basic" tachnique because advanced technique is something I don't have yet! I know there are Yodas on here that could SPP your lock in seconds).

How are you attacking this lock? Are you using strip-raking (the technique where you insert your rake with no tension, aplly slight tension and then rip the rake out as you jack up the tension)? Are you trying to single-pin pick it?

I am guessing that you just happen to be working on a #3 with a real of a pin arrangement.

[thelockpickkid]

I have the key right here, the pin that is the deepest is the pin closest to the neck, it is about as deep a cut as I have seen, I have felt all the pins, I think I am getting all of them except the deep one, I can hear them clicking down when I let the tension off. my buddy gave me this lock today, he had another one that he was using and the key for it was real straight forward, not at all like this one, could there be security pins in this lock, I have read that is is easy to pick, I just can't quit get it, I have been trying all night!, I go back to my # 5 just to keep my faith, and then go try old number 3 again but just can't get it, oh well I will just keep trying I guess, this lock is weathered though, I am wondering if my lack of experience with a well used lock is throwing me?

[gotta]

You have to view locks like people. They are all individuals. Not all #3's are going to pick alike. Yes, there are similarities, but variances in tolerances of the pin chambers, the keying combo, corrosion etc. all combine to make each lock an individual. That's not to say you can't approach simular locks in the same manner. Needless to say, if your #3 isn't picking for you and others have no problem, it has little to do with the type of lock, but more the variables. My advice is to lube the lock, insert a hook pick to the rear and pull forward to make sure all your pins are free. If every lock just popped open, what good would practice do. Good luck!

[josh0094]

2 things,

1 use a medium sized half diamond

2 take ur half diamond and feel all the pins, if u do it right it will open TRY IT!

[LeeNo]

I have the key right here, the pin that is the deepest is the pin closest to the neck, it is about as deep a cut as I have seen, I have felt all the pins, I think I am getting all of them except the deep one, I can hear them clicking down when I let the tension off.

That is what I was worried about. I still have a cheap Master 141 I can't pick because of that same pinning. What is probably happening is that you are over-setting that first pin because the only way to avoid oversetting it is to not touch it and work all the pins behind it.

could there be security pins in this lock, I have read that is is easy to pick, I just can't quit get it, I have been trying all night!

No security pins. Just a very difficult pinning.

I am wondering if my lack of experience with a well used lock is throwing me?

If the key inserts easily and the lock opens smoothly then the condition of the lock probably isn't the issue. It is the difficult pinning.

[thelockpickkid]

Well Leeno, thanks for the advice, and everyone else! I guess, I will just keep trying till I get it! if not oh well, maybe a rainy day project!