I just don't get it.

[TanteHedwig]

Okay, so here's the deal:

Got my lockpicking set now for 3 days and a lock with 5 pins was included.

I have been working on it for 6 hours now and I can't open it. Raking doesn't work, so I'm trying SPB.

Counting the pins and pushing them down is not the problem.

I've got problems noticing if a pin is set correctly - I'm also not sure how much pressure to apply.

I've read quite a bit and got a good understanding of the mechanisms of locks.

Help!

[lockjock50]

It depends on the lock. Some you can just rake the heck out of it. Some you have to start fron the front, some from the back. If it is your first pick it may seem like for ever. Try little tention, then try heavy.

[lockjock50]

Also try picking the opposite direction to get the feel if it.

[In.Xanadu]

Practice, as if you haven't heard that enough already.

I'm a newcomer as well, with just a month or so of time under my belt. I found it very helpful to start with fewer pins. Five minutes with a three pin lock game me enough of an understanding of feel, and enough of a confidence boost to make the four and five pin locks much easier.

I still keep a three pin lock around, just as a way to introduce new people.

[Phantom1016]

Can you repin your lock? Id suggest taking it down to only 2 or 3 pins to start with and just getting the feel for which pin is binding, and how that differs from the others. It wont take long, but it will give you a great idea of what you're looking for. The guide here on LP101 suggest starting at just 1 pin, and building up to 5 or 6 from that. It's much easier to start with the basics.

[Legion303]

What they said, and use less tension.

How much tension? Barely more than you need to turn the plug when there are no pins in it at all.

-steve