xFoRcEx76 wrote:Sometimes, when I think I have found a binding pin, I push and it is stuck in place, no matter how hard i push. I release some tension and eventually the pin goes up.
You are oversetting a set pin. Pushing harder isn't what you need.
xFoRcEx76 wrote:But there are other times when i push the pin up and i hear the spring go up and it just goes down without setting. I gently lift the pin several times but it doesn't seem to set. I think it's hard for me to tell whether a pin is even set properly or not.
I agree, because you are describing lifting a pin that is not binding.
xFoRcEx76 wrote:Eventually, I just keep pushing the pins at odd angles and somehow the lock gets picked. I want to eventually get to a point where I feel like I am really SPPing a lock rather than relying on pure luck. Any tips will help greatly. Thank you!
Frustration is getting the better of you. The tension you should place on the end of the wrench shouldn't need to be any more than the weight of a few coins. Pushing harder on the wrench means you'll have to lift harder with your pick, and you don't want to snap the key pin above the shearline, but bring it under control to the shearline. Lighter tension will also help you decide which pin is binding, and which is already set. Less tension means a lower binding friction and it will move smoother into the bible then click, where a pin that is overset has more friction, and no click. What tools are you using? Sometimes stainless picks require even less tension than high carbon steel since they are more flexible. When a pick bends, even if it sets a pin the energy stored in the bent pick has to go somewhere, and that is usually placeing the key pin just beyond the point where you want to stop. Also, master lock is a good beginner's lock, but since you cannot really take it apart easily, consider buying a cheap rim lock, or kwikset at the hardware store. That way you can take pins out if you want, or still practice if you are having an off day.
Stay calm, feel for the right clicks. A pick slipping off a pin can sound alot like a pin setting under tension, so can a pick snapping off the key warding. Light tension, smooth picking. I snapped several tensioners before I realized just how little it can really take, especially on a deadbolt or plug with no spring tension to overcome. Little more than the weight of your finger. It is similar to writing with a pencil. Press harder(more tension), make a darker mark. Press too hard, and you rip through the paper(overset pins). Stick with it a couple days and you'll get it in no time. It should be a relaxing activity.
-ToolyMcgee