Just got my first pickset...

[AzHP]

I ordered a MPXS-14 and I'm really excited to be starting a new hobby...I was just wondering, before I get down to business, how long it took all of you to pick your first lock? I'm going to go out and buy a cheap masterlock from the locksmith down the street and was just wondering so that I don't get too discouraged if I can't get it. Thanks, hope to be picking soon.

[zeke79]

try and get a master no.3 as they are a great starter lock.

[AzHP]

Well, I got a 134 (the vinyl one), the pick and wrench go in pretty easily but after about 10 minutes I haven't been able to get it...should I go get a #3 as well or should I just work this one till I get it?

[Mad Mick]

After a quick peek at the master site, this seems to be a variant of the #140, which has spools. Take Zeke's advice and get a #3 and leave the #134 for later. The #3 is a great lock for starting out on, four pins and none are security pins.

Read the MIT guide and any other info you can lay your hands on, and you'll be picking in no time.

[AzHP]

After a quick peek at the master site, this seems to be a variant of the #140, which has spools. Take Zeke's advice and get a #3 and leave the #134 for later. The #3 is a great lock for starting out on, four pins and none are security pins.

Read the MIT guide and any other info you can lay your hands on, and you'll be picking in no time.

Thanks for the help, I went to an event today and was picking at the lock forEVER and couldn't get it to budge, even though I heard 5 clicks every time I released the tension. I'll go check the other locksmith a block down the street (couldn't find the #3 at the other one), I've read up on all the guides on the internet, practically, so I hope to have good luck with a #3. Thanks a lot for the help!

[AzHP]

Well, I've got the #3 now, boy are they expensive (11.60?), but I guess this will keep me occupied for a while. I'm not having much luck with it, the most I can set is 3 pins (by chance), it's probably to do with how much pressure I'm putting on the tension wrench...I know it's "very little" pressure that you're supposed to apply, but how little is little? Like, just rest your finger on the wrench? Push down a little? A little clarity would mean a lot to me.

[Romstar]

Well, I've got the #3 now, boy are they expensive (11.60?), but I guess this will keep me occupied for a while. I'm not having much luck with it, the most I can set is 3 pins (by chance), it's probably to do with how much pressure I'm putting on the tension wrench...I know it's "very little" pressure that you're supposed to apply, but how little is little? Like, just rest your finger on the wrench? Push down a little? A little clarity would mean a lot to me.

Start by just resting your finger on the end of the wrench. Feel for each of the pins. If you can get a pin to set, this might be enough tension. If not, increase the amount just a little at a time.

Eventually, as you gain experience you will instinctively know how much to use.

Also, moving the point where you press the wrench up and down the handle varies the tension as well. The lever principle still applies, even in lock picking.

Romstar

[AzHP]

YES, I did it, just resting my finger on it was enough, thanks for all your help!

I guess I'll try to do it again, thanks!

[Romstar]

Any help I can give is yours for the asking.

At least, I think that is what I am doing here.

Romstar

[AzHP]

I've gotten my #3 to where I can pick it6 in 10 seconds or less now, so which of these should I move to: Tri-Circle 262, Master 134 padlocks or my deadbolt in my door (Schalge)? I can barely fit my pick and wrench into the deadbolt, but I'm not having any luck with either padlock and I'm not sure which to stick with for now.

[Romstar]

I've gotten my #3 to where I can pick it6 in 10 seconds or less now, so which of these should I move to: Tri-Circle 262, Master 134 padlocks or my deadbolt in my door (Schalge)? I can barely fit my pick and wrench into the deadbolt, but I'm not having any luck with either padlock and I'm not sure which to stick with for now.

I'd go with that tri-circle if you are having problems with the Schlage. Although I can't imagine why you are having such problems getting the tools in. If it's a hook causing you problems, try a small half diamond.

Romstar