master padlocks

[spider]

Hi,
I have recently got back into lockpicking having not practised for several years. I have been out and bought a Master Padlock number 40. I picked this lock in under 30 seconds. Since then i have picked it several times.
Over the last few days, can i pick this lock again. NO!!
Does anyone have any suggestions as to what i am doing wrong.

[Eagle]

I guess you are referring to the round, 4 pin, key retaining padlock.

What I recommend is to take a breath, examine the lock, feel the picks move up and down with your pick, and slowly begin. Try picking one pin, to get the feel for it. I can only imagine, as I would be, frustrated for not being able to open it after already having opened. Think back to when you were able to pick it. How were your hands positioned and what was your mindset? Do not rush and keep a cool head.

It is possible that the lock is damaged (highly unlikely). Try giving us more information on your problem. Do the pins bind, will the plug not turn, etc. The more info you give us, the more we can help you.

[TOWCH]

I think the 40 has mushroom pins. My experience with this type of lock has been the mushrooms don't false set the first couple times you pick it, and after 3-4 times they start catching hardcore. That's how my Abus Buffo and cheap knock off act anyway. I didn't have alot of luck with a 40 when I did try one so I figure it's the same problem.

[Grudge]

Personally I have cold spells where I can't pick a Kwikset. Othertimes I am in a groove and manage to tackle really tough ones. For me, its all mindset and since I don't practice enough to make it second nature it comes and goes. Maybe you are just 'cold' right now. Try a different lock (I keep a cheap brass padlock my dog Ginger could pick (if she had thumbs)) just for times like this. I pick it a few times and then I can move on to harder locks. Hope that helps!

[Mr Ules]

Leave the lock alone. Pick other locks and a day later, or when you're relaxed and not thinking about picking it. Just start picking. This is what I do and it works quite well.

[raimundo]

re evaluate the way you hold the lock, you might be unnecessarily tense and causing fatigue in your hands, Is the tensor blade loose when you take the finger off it, if it is stuck solid, that is the problem. you may have cut a groove in the cylinder wall where the tensor blade touches it. Try a wider tensor. One other thing, Master locks will open in either direction, if one direction gives difficulty, go the other way.