I know the feeling regarding feeling like it's dumb luck rather than skill!
As GWiens2001 pointed out, if the pin is springy, it's not the binding pin. That, or you're not applying enough tension.
If the pin is kinda stiff and you press on it with the pick, and it "clicks", cylinder shifts a bit and key pin is still springy then you set it
If the pin is kinda stiff and you press on it with the pick, and it "clicks", cylinder shifts a bit but the key pin seems "stuck", you either didn't push it far enough or you overset it. Release tension and try again.
You could also try getting a cutaway or see-through lock. They do affect the "feel" of picking negatively but it's a good way to visualise what's going on inside the lock when you pick it, and where the pins are etc. Then, when you are picking a proper lock, try to imagine what you saw in the practice lock. People will tell you that Internet diagrams are good enough but IMO there's no substitute for seeing it with your own eyes
. At least, in my experience.
You could also try getting a re-pinnable lock. These will allow you to remove all but one or two pins from the chamber so you can get a real sense of how setting pins feels in a less stressful (less pins to worry about) environment. Decent sellers will include a pack of pins that lets you re-pin the lock with different pin heights and also security pins when you go down that route. This will also help you follow
This Guide, which I highly recommend.
Good luck, and happy picking!
*Disclaimer: I'm not a pro, I'm a noob too, everything I say is my personal experience and opinion only and is not representative of any kind of official or LP101 advice*
