Picked my first lock today...

[ClockworkLemon]

Well, I managed to pick my first lock today. It was just an old lock I had lying around with no key, so it was the ideal candidate for picking. I wish I could say that I took my time, started to develop a feel for when pins started to bind, and when they set, but I can't. Unfortunately after having the devil's own job trying to get my tension wrench to fit in the tiny keyway and still be able to get the pick in, I was getting more than a little frustrated. After about 30 minutes of trying to SPP it, I gave up and just raked the pick a few times, and lo and behold, the little bleeder opened.

In retrospect, looking at all the rust flakes that came out of the lock when it finally opened, it probably wasn't the best choice of lock for my first picking attempt. One of these days when I have a few spare dollars, I'll invest in a cheap door lock to practice on, at least I won't have to worry about rust and what have you.

[Silverado]

It's worth a try asking friends, family, and strangers if they've got any locks they need to get rid of (or don't have a key for) and ask if you may have them. You're almost doing them a favor and getting rid of that "junk" that's just taking up space, and you're scoring yourself a lock! Heck, invite them to a BBQ or throw cookies at them in return.

I've not had any luck getting freebies/useless junk from people as far as locks go, but I know a lot of people scored on that front. I still try though!

[johnb007]

Congrats, the addiction has begun. Have fun!

[ClockworkLemon]

It's worth a try asking friends, family, and strangers if they've got any locks they need to get rid of (or don't have a key for) and ask if you may have them. You're almost doing them a favor and getting rid of that "junk" that's just taking up space, and you're scoring yourself a lock! Heck, invite them to a BBQ or throw cookies at them in return.

I've not had any luck getting freebies/useless junk from people as far as locks go, but I know a lot of people scored on that front. I still try though!

Hmm, hadn't thought of that. Probably worth asking around and seeing if I can pick up something on the cheep or for free. Failing that I'll hit up the local secondhand and salvage shops, there's almost certain to be something. As an absolute last resort I know I can get a new deadbolt for just over $10.

Congrats, the addiction has begun. Have fun!

Thanks, I can't wait to get my hands on some more locks.