Is my Master #3 conquered or just knackered?!

[steve01jag]

Hi,

I have only recently got into lock picking and my first success was on a Master #3. i can now open it with a good consistency and I am now making sure I know HOW I opened it.

It seems that it opens after just setting pins 4 and 2. When i set pin 4, there is quite a bit of movement in the plug. I don't think I'm interfering with the other pins. The lock appears to be in good condition, it works on the key and is well oiled.

Is this usual or is there a fault with the lock?

Many thanks,

Steve

[b03tz]

It is usual My no.3 is like that too, brand new! Only opened once with a key..then picked it..same deal

You're just good

[LocksmithArmy]

nooo its normal... your pick shaft is raising the other pins.... whats the bitting? do you have a key

[xeo]

I remember this happening to me when I first started... usually because I was touching other pins with the pick and just happened to set them. Sometimes you set pins by accident. Other times the pins are deep cut and don't need to be touched. Look at the key and match up the bitting to how you're picking it.

[b03tz]

The lock appears to be in good condition, it works on the key and is well oiled.

do you have a key

[steve01jag]

Thanks for the replies,

The key has the number 3720 stamped on it. I'm assuming this refers to that locks keying, number 3 being pin 1?

[LocksmithArmy]

ok what pick are you using?
i can see pin one being set when you lift pin 4... but i dont see pin 3 being set wehn you lift 4 or 2... unless you are raising 3 with the tip and raising 4 with the edge (likely done with a peterson gem style pick or a broader short hook)

[steve01jag]

I'm using a homemade short hook, (I think I'd be better of with proper picks!) and now you said that and I've looked at the key again what your saying does make sense.

Now I've found out what clues the key can give you!!

[LocksmithArmy]

you learn something every day... having the key (in my openion) will make picking easier if you know what to look for...

[jailersmith]

The number on the key is the code that shows the bitting listed in a code book.

[steve01jag]

That explains it, I was trying to work out the numbers in relation to the depth of the key biting and thought I must be missing something