I am a 73 year old hobbyist. I stumbled on some lock picking videos that aroused my interest. From these I ended up totally confused. That is, until I found your videos. Your instructions are so concise and eventually intuitive. Many thanks for making an old man happy. Keep up the good work!!
Picking locks has become my fidget spinner. Its calming and like a puzzle or rubix cube after work to keep my mind focused on the lock picking. Thanks for video!
As a beginner with the kit and having unlocked it a few times experimenting with the technique, that explained a huge amount regards the binding order and how important it is to understand the mechanics behind the bind and the order. I was experiencing this, but I didn't understand it. Now I understand what I was seeing and feeling. One of those lightbulb moments. Thanks.
One tip (that I’ve never seen anyone mention) for finding the first binding pin is use the flat side of a pick (like the underside of a triangular pick) or even the handle of a tension wrench to put _all_ of the pins up as high as you can, _then_ apply tension, and then slowly remove the tool which is holding the pins up. You’ll hear each pin (except one)click back down as you draw the end of the lifting tool past it. The one that didn’t click down is the first binder.
This is a good tip in general, but might not work so well on certain locks that have pins which are easily overset. Of course, if you overset a pin, it's easy enough to back out and start over, so definitely a good idea to try this first. An especially handy tip for locks that have rear pins which are low, stiff, and hard to get under.
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT video and series. The clearest and most concise ! Keep up the great work as there is none better on TH-cam for understanding locks. Would love to see working with sliders and disc lick mechanisms in the future.
This video is pure gold, I just got my pick tools and clear practice lock today. Incredibly interesting and informative about the binding pins vs the ones only springing.
Hi HLP love your channel. Wondering if you can answer me a question I have because I'm thinking of purchasing a cutaway lock. So... I'm wondering if the binding order will change when I change the pins. I think it'll defeat the purpose if i know the binding order regardless of what pins I install. Thanks 😊
Tis video really taught me the right approach to picking lock. Never knew what "binding" means n the " sequence" to pick which pin first! Great help! Thank you
Buddy I love these videos they are so great for the beginners. Are a teacher? Because you show and explain everything so well and your camera work is awesome my friend. Thank you for doing this series for everyone.
No I am a nurse but thank you for the kind words! I do like to orient new staff though :) I do plan on doing a "How To Learn To Pick A Medeco" series after Lock Picking Home School but right now I can only get consistent opens with all standards. These mushroom pins hate me :( imgur.com/a/K3fO8
Transparent and cut away locks are still great for beginners because one big thing is just getting a feel for the pressure and the distances. Just getting a good feel for how to move the pick seems pretty important to me. But you might be so far into this that you just take this absolute basic concept for granted, happens to everyone. I am super new into this and noticed this as one of the areas where i need to improve a lot. Since otherwise you won't even know which one just clicked with a normal lock.
Great video. First time lockpicking and watched a couple of YT vids but no luck and then came across your one and did it almost immediately! thank you!
At 46 y/old, I got enthused, watched a few videos pick my 1st lock 3 times within a hour with paperclips! I have a new hobby now, love & want to continue learning more. I also opened a combination lock 3 times! Today I couldn't open either lock not 1 time ALL DAY! So I took a break like another video suggested. I want hurry up & wake up to continue now!😂 I found a 32 pc beginner kit with a clear practice lock for $25 online also. If I can pick my 1st lock 3 times with 2 paperclips without even knowing about Binding Orders, I'm positive a decent kit will help with practice! I'm subscribed & can't wait to learn more! Do you suggest any good beginners kits? If so, THANK YOU!🫵🏾👍🏾
Each lock is built with different tolerances, so the holes do not align exactly the same way which changes it. Also, the amount of tension you apply can change the binding order. More tension can lead to more binding pins.
Great informative video! I've been lock picking as a hobby for many years now, and the binding order is something that I stubble on quite often. Last time it happened was quite embarrassing though as I was helping my friend get back into his garden shed as he left the keys in it and clicked the padlock 🔒 shut, so I tried to show off and single pick it and failed so had to use a rocking technique with a city rake lol
Fantastic video!! Just ordered my first pick set and have been watching your videos and the exercise in this was fantastic practice and such a simple exercise to boost understanding. Thank you!
Thank you so much! Just picked my first lock ever after trying rocking, raking, bitch picking for hours without any success whatsoever. This, in combination with your overset pins tutorial, was what helped me do it successfully. I just wanted to add something that made my life so hard; I was working on a Trelock, an old 5 pin German cylinder, and with your tips I had the binding order within 15 minutes or so. The problem was that the last pin always seemed stuck. Then I found out what the problem was; I had to completely release the tension when pushing down the last pin. The core had rotated slightly after pushing the first couple pins, and this caused the last pin to get stuck. When I released the tension, the core moved back a little and the last pin fit in, resulting in my first ever opened lock. Also, the core got stuck again after rotating 180°, I guess gravity caused some pins to fall down. This I could remedy by just pushing pins up randomly until it continued to rotate. Anyway, thanks again, I'm happy to sub. Would love to see you make a video on core rotation and what it can tell us when SPP, because I could only pick the lock by relying on BOTH the clicking sound and core rotation.
I have several videos on counter rotation when you are picking spool pins. Congrats on opening your first lock, you will learn each time you work on new lock. I wish you luck in the giveaway and please consider yourself entered. I am glad the videos are helping!
Excellent teaching manner, good pacing, nice and clear all the way through. Thank you very much. Wonderfully refreshing after all the 90mph inarticulate gabble that infests so much of TH-cam.
Binge watching your channel lately. While it is entertaining to watch legal professionals open locks, this channel has been more helpful for actually learning. Thanks! ( a riff from my favourite band at the end of every episode also brings a smile to my face!)
Thanks. Just ordered my first pick set (that cheap one on ebay) and looking forward to taking up the hobby. It's like a puzzle you have to do by touch and hearing, which I find pretty cool.
@@HelpfulLockPicker Thanks. Picked up some ML # 3115, 1, 3, 131, 40D, and also found an AL1105. It was kept in a rain cover and it's in really nice shape with the red anodizing. Should make a fun start. Thanks for all the tutorials.
Just started picking as a hobby a few months ago and your explanation has helped me understand the biggest mistake I have been making thank you so much .....brilliant video
Thanks. Saw some other videos on this and didn't quite get what they meant since they'd just sort of rush through and assume you know how things work. Ended up picking via this method for once following instructions. TLDW seems to "poke them up until you hear a click, then poke a different one, keep doing that until its unlocked" I don't get why the order matters though
This is very good. I'm a beginner and the padlocks I've started with -- a transparent lock, a Master #3, and an old Chinese padlock -- only have one or two pins binding out of 5 or 6.
You really lived up to your channel name here; great video and really helped me out. I watched many other tutorials from big names in this category but yours was so much more understandable and helpful and after watching it I was actually able to open a lock twice in a row that I have been struggling with. Thank you!!!!
How do you choose which pick to use? I have the same clear plastic practice lock as you have in this video, but when I add tension, I can't seem to get to the back pin very well. I usually end up switching the pick for my half diamond, which seems to do better of lifting that pin up. Do you have a video that shows how to properly set the tension wrench and get the pick in so it doesn't get caught and can reach all the pins nicely?
Talking about the cutaway lock at the beginning of the video (1:20), you mention the key way makes it a more difficult one to pick. I have a clear lock that has that key way. It was my first lock to practice with (and still my only). No wonder I found it so damn difficult to work with. Something I wanted to point out, though, if a lock/key way can turn in either direction, simply changing what direction you rotate it can change the binding order
Thanx a bunch buddy I know I'm years later to the party but I just wanted to say thanx. Vi now own 3 houses 4 bikes and a car! You're epic.. Joking obviously lol but good video buddy, I'm just getting into the hobby but I struggle to hear a single click on a normal lock and half the time Im not even sure if I'm pressing the pins or not although I have opened a few locks, more luck than anything really
Same question I was gonna ask. I'm guessing you just lift them all 1 at a time from #1. I could be wrong or not even know what I'm talking about. Let me know if I'm correct! THANK YOU!🫵🏾👍🏾
Call Aza someone who has zero experience picking just off of sound I was able to get all of these right I was not watching the video because I was driving but this is awesome I feel like I want to become a locksmith even though this is for beginners
@ clock 6:45 pin 6 was the last pin to set; however, there were 1 & 2 clicks that you called out, but I heard other clicks you didn't mention. That said, I assume one single pin sometimes will lift up others, true?
You can lift pins with the shank of your pick inadvertently. This is not a really great lock and isn't exactly the best demonstration of setting pins precisely but at the time it was the best lock I had
lockpicking always seemed super hard, but after watching these videos explaining all of the ins and outs it seems super easy. Except for some hard locks ive seen like those car locks that have 4 different sets of pins, 2 on top and 2 on the bottom, those seem like a nightmare X D.
I just started lock sport ...and I'll find locks on side of road ...my question is have you ever tried picking a lock that just won't pick and if so have you ever sprayed a lubricant inside to unbind it if so what have you used. Have you looked at the more expensive lock pick sets and are they worth the money
Hola, Exelente video, muy buena explicación y en detalle, FELICIDADES Y GRACIAS por compartir sus conocimientos altruistas. Reciba un cordial abrazo desde Sucre Bolivia.
@@HelpfulLockPicker I'm struggling already....... I've individually picked a generic padlock and raked it successfully. I have the key also. I'm onto a disc shaped padlock that I can rake but not pick.i can find more than one binding pin and Its hard to know which pin im on and I'm over tensioning. If I let off on the tension, all the pins fall back to the beginning. I have a plastic lock like yours and can pick that in seconds.
@@shifty2755 if you are from the US I would recommend starting off with a basic Kwikset lock (not smart key). These have a wide open keyway, are easy to pick, and can be progressive pinned. If you were able to do that I strongly feel it would help supplement your learning greatly :)
Thanks for the amazing video HLP ! Hi to have the same clear lock but applying pressures all the way up to maximum on the lever only pins 3 and 4 click and all remain springy can't go any further any help?
I just bought a lockpick set and a table vise after seeing your videos. You are quite inspiring. I am starting out with an acrylic lock and am most comfortable with BOK. But sometimes the pins bind so hard, my pick cannot get through. Is it because of improper tensioning?
Chaitanya Joshi most likely you are over tensioning. You only want to tension enough so that one binds. Also check out one of my more recent videos on how to improve your clear locks you can get more use out of it :-) the way they come you often only have to pick two or three of the pins. If you have any other questions feel free to ask and I wish you luck!
Thank you for the kind words, I am glad the video helps. Also feel free to check out my Lock Picking Home School series if you would like to learn more!
4:02 After you set the 5th pin and before you set the 6th pin, I heard another click that sounded like a pin setting. What is that? I feel like I constantly run into sounds that sound like a set but they're not.
I bought a 15 dollar kit with one of those see through locks off amazon and i can pick it with my eyes closed in like 15 minutes of opening the package. The biggest issue i have with the kit is the lock is almost commicaly oversized. Which is great for learning i guess but all the tools are also large. I cant pick any other lock i have laying around with them. Im already hooked ive picked the lock like 20 or so times now. The biggest steps i could give anyone is start at pin 1 and go down the line then back to the front if ur stuck let tension off slightly. Also it really helped to do top of the key hole for the thing u turn not the pick. Idk the names of the tools yet
Excellent video! Reiterating many comments here, you're a great teacher and deserve a sub! Just wondering, are there any locks that reset the pins if you get the binding order wrong?
If you overset a pin it's up to you try to get it to fall back down or you need to remove tension and let all the pins fall down which "resets" the lock
Good video. WHY do both of the locks have 3 pins that do not seem to be keeping the cylinder from rotating? I cannot visualize why that would be the case? Aren't the driver pins down below the shear line???
On this lock a few of the key pins sit at the shearline and also since the driver pins are keypins it makes them pop out of the plug easily. It is a poorly designed lock.
Hello again. Can you elaborate why knowing binding order is important? I have watched many of your videos. they are awesome. I am seeing pins as floppy, springy - the only other state is binding. As binding order is non deterministic and a byproduct of random tolerance issues with the lock, is it productive to try to set any pin not springy or floppy? This assumption considers that, the FIRST time in any lock, the binding order is unknown. Perhaps knowing the binding order only helps with more expedient picking? Ie, is not mandatory, at the expense of speed in opening.
Look up my video on true binding order. There can be an instance where you set the first two pins and the third pin will drop everything else. When you get into high tolerance locks and even security pins it can make a big difference to have a game plan by figuring it out
Hey! First off, thank you for the help. I wanted to ask the reason as to why my lock eventually starts turning but I’m unable to open it. Are there situations where there’s still like a single pin left holding it all back?
Yes, often times locks are not opening due to not being fully picked. Some have secondary mechanisms like the Schlage Everest where there is a check pin which needs to be hit
6:46 If you take a look at the cuts of the bottom pins, you can begin to understand how unsafe rounded top pins are. The reason why 3,4,5, and almost 6 did not have to be picked at all were because the top pins were beveled. Since The cuts for the key would've been deep, hence why the bottom pins are really long, the top pins barely fall past the sheer line. Simply rotating the core without even picking those pins resulted in the sheer line rubbing up against the ramp on the top pins, automatically forcing them upward. If you ever actually get a lock, and more than 1 top pin is rounded, you should return it. It's really only used for pick practice or to key a cylinder to a horribly worn key. It's alot safer to spend the extra 5 dollars, to get a new key aswell, so the locksmith doesn't give you an unsafe lock
This has he helped me to understand why a lock smith reaches the last pin then returns to the beginning to complete the unset pins. It's a clear understanding of the binding order. Now, where can I find a video that will show me an equally thorough explanation of the concept of a "false set?"
I personally use Peterson. I typically use their Hook 1 in 0.025" thickness. Their top of key way tensioner in 0.050" and 0.040 and assort bottom of the keyway tensioners
On the first lock Pins 2 and 3 were set by the shank of the pick as you were picking 4 no? Or were they simply pushed out of the way as the plug rotated?
Hi very informative video would like to know how to pick hi security radial locks as fitted to my caravan big problem if I lose my only key ? as unable to get new one cut ! Martin Tasker
for a given lock, is the binding order “created” or set by the manufacturer/locksmith ahead (ie like a “pin”)? Or, is binding order influenced or revealed “randomly “ as a byproduct of tensioning? Please explain if or how the binding order for a lock is always the same.
Amazon doesn't officially allow sellers to sell picks some sets trickle in but most of them are cheap sets that not very good. If you check out the set I have listed in the video description on banggood.com that is about as good as it gets for cheap sets
Honestly Amazon really isn't the best option for pick sets- they're usually cheaply made with lots of filler picks that you'll probably never use. There are some reputable companies that you should probably buy from instead- while they WILL be a bit more expensive they're also significantly higher quality. The Southord PXS-14 is a set I'd recommend as it comes with a good variety of picks at a moderately low price. You should also check out picks/ sets from Sparrows and Peterson companies. Peterson is much more expensive than the others but they make very good tools as well
I have a similar clear padlock that came with my first pick set and it has the same binding order that yours does. 1, 2, 6. I wonder if that is by design. I can pick it by raking even faster than with individual picking.
I think they are just poorly made. I would recommend you flipping the driver pins over so they are not rounded where they meet the key pins. Also, some of the key pins were so long they actually sat at the shearline.
My masterlock discus binding order is 4-3 and that’s it haha. So much for the nice boron carbide shackle! And I’m using just a Bobby pin and flathead, takes all of 3 seconds!
Hello Helpful! I have a similar acrylic trainer lock, however nothing works like in your video. None of the pins seem to bind, regardless how much tension. They just float up and down without snapping into place. Any ideas?
@@HelpfulLockPicker Thanks for the response, but I don't see how that is helpful for my problem. As I wrote earlier. Nothing binds. There is no snapping sound. All 6 pins just move freely.
![[73] How To Tension Locks With Standard Pins](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/oISbW9UADjU/mqdefault.jpg)
![[73] How To Tension Locks With Standard Pins](/img/tr.png)
![[370] Binding Order Explained Simply | Learn Lock Picking!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dkps2LIZc5g/mqdefault.jpg)
![[206] How To Defeat Overset Pins: Prevent, Identify, and Fix Overset Pins (Learn Lock Picking)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/NkXFGATJysY/mqdefault.jpg)
Please Stay Tuned Every Wednesday at 4pm Eastern For More Episodes To Come!
I wasnt going to stay tuned but after I saw this Pinned Comment how can I not stay tuned??😜
Thanks for the video! I learned the binding order after watching the video!
your link is broken!:(
where do you buy your cutaways and clear locks? and whats the best picking tools to buy?
Couldn't hear the pins click because of the talking.
I am a 73 year old hobbyist. I stumbled on some lock picking videos that aroused my interest. From these I ended up totally confused. That is, until I found your videos. Your instructions are so concise and eventually intuitive. Many thanks for making an old man happy. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you for the kind words and congrats on the success
Hey Roy! I am going to be your first subscribeer incase you disease to make any videos on your chanel!
I’ve never picked a lock in my life but by the end I was like “yeah, five is definitely binding.”
Thanks for checking it out! I recommend giving it a go, it is a fun hobby!
I will check this out
He’s already doing bjj
lol 😂
@@kirkbreneman8078 Flying Armbar is going all Neo: "I know Kung Fu."
Picking locks has become my fidget spinner. Its calming and like a puzzle or rubix cube after work to keep my mind focused on the lock picking. Thanks for video!
Thank you for sharing! It is also just a really great community to become a part of. Everyone is nice and wants you do do well.
*Rubik's cube. It was invented by the Hungarian architect Erno Rubik, hence the name "Rubik's cube".
I can get frustrating though....
Boop
@@KiwiPokerPlayer finally someone
YOUR VIDEOS HAVE HELPED ME
Because Knowing how to pick locks has really opened a lot of doors for me 😏
Thank you for sharing!
Groan. Terrible. Well done.
Lol you a fool for that 😂 👍🏾
That's not punny...
@@DerekCrosby
The people whose houses I broke into and stole some things didn’t think it was funny either
That was brilliantly described.
Stephen Howlett thank you for the kind words!
As a beginner with the kit and having unlocked it a few times experimenting with the technique, that explained a huge amount regards the binding order and how important it is to understand the mechanics behind the bind and the order. I was experiencing this, but I didn't understand it. Now I understand what I was seeing and feeling. One of those lightbulb moments. Thanks.
thank you for the kind words and I am happy that this video was able to help you reach an AHA moment in Lock sport :-)
I'm probably just repeating what others have already said... but you simply ROCK!!! Love your vids .. Simple to follow and to the point.. Bravo👏👏👏
Thank you for the kind words, I am glad they help!
You say he rocks, the Japanese say he locks!
@@dickJohnsonpeter I say he unrocks.
You are a godsend, I was so confused at first, but you taught it brilliantly!
thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helped :-)
May be an old video but new and informative to me. You’re a very clear and patient speaker. Thanks!
I have to say you're one of the best teachers on You-Tube. I can follow and copy your actions and I'm learning bit by bit. Big thanks from me,
Thank you for the kind words and support!
One tip (that I’ve never seen anyone mention) for finding the first binding pin is use the flat side of a pick (like the underside of a triangular pick) or even the handle of a tension wrench to put _all_ of the pins up as high as you can, _then_ apply tension, and then slowly remove the tool which is holding the pins up. You’ll hear each pin (except one)click back down as you draw the end of the lifting tool past it. The one that didn’t click down is the first binder.
Thanks for sharing
This is a good tip in general, but might not work so well on certain locks that have pins which are easily overset. Of course, if you overset a pin, it's easy enough to back out and start over, so definitely a good idea to try this first. An especially handy tip for locks that have rear pins which are low, stiff, and hard to get under.
Just getting into picking. Yours are some of best educational videos on the subject. Thank You for taking the time to help us newbies .
I didn’t want to reiterate what everyone said but you’re a great teacher. Thanks so much!
Thank you for the kind words 😀
I dont know how people cant explain like this. This is perfect dude. Thx
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps!
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT video and series.
The clearest and most concise ! Keep up the great work as there is none better on TH-cam for understanding locks.
Would love to see working with sliders and disc lick mechanisms in the future.
I hope to in the future but right now I don't have the time
This video is pure gold, I just got my pick tools and clear practice lock today. Incredibly interesting and informative about the binding pins vs the ones only springing.
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps. I hope you have fun learning :)
@@HelpfulLockPicker Thank you, it only took me about 20 seconds to open the practice lock. Now on to a brass master lock. Thanks for the help!
Hi HLP love your channel.
Wondering if you can answer me a question I have because I'm thinking of purchasing a cutaway lock.
So... I'm wondering if the binding order will change when I change the pins.
I think it'll defeat the purpose if i know the binding order regardless of what pins I install.
Thanks 😊
Oh man i watch lockpickinglawyer alot and i havent ever seen such a good explanation!
thank you for the kind words :-)
Tis video really taught me the right approach to picking lock. Never knew what "binding" means n the " sequence" to pick which pin first! Great help! Thank you
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps
Buddy I love these videos they are so great for the beginners. Are a teacher? Because you show and explain everything so well and your camera work is awesome my friend. Thank you for doing this series for everyone.
No I am a nurse but thank you for the kind words! I do like to orient new staff though :)
I do plan on doing a "How To Learn To Pick A Medeco" series after Lock Picking Home School but right now I can only get consistent opens with all standards. These mushroom pins hate me :( imgur.com/a/K3fO8
My latest video also made Popular Mechanics! Second time that's happened.
www.popularmechanics.com/mili...
Just started at lockpicking, and how perfectly you explained this is just wonderful! Subscribed immediately
Thank you for the kind words!
Transparent and cut away locks are still great for beginners because one big thing is just getting a feel for the pressure and the distances.
Just getting a good feel for how to move the pick seems pretty important to me. But you might be so far into this that you just take this absolute basic concept for granted, happens to everyone.
I am super new into this and noticed this as one of the areas where i need to improve a lot.
Since otherwise you won't even know which one just clicked with a normal lock.
Thanks for sharing! This is definently something that is crucial and takes a lot of experience to develop
A magnificent, clear, simple video that just helped me to understand the very basics I couldn't grasp. Thank you, really!
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps
Very helpful buddy. I really appreciate it. Been on a LPL binge lately and this helps me understand what I'm watching alot better!
I am glad it helps
Great video. First time lockpicking and watched a couple of YT vids but no luck and then came across your one and did it almost immediately! thank you!
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps!
At 46 y/old, I got enthused, watched a few videos pick my 1st lock 3 times within a hour with paperclips! I have a new hobby now, love & want to continue learning more. I also opened a combination lock 3 times! Today I couldn't open either lock not 1 time ALL DAY! So I took a break like another video suggested. I want hurry up & wake up to continue now!😂
I found a 32 pc beginner kit with a clear practice lock for $25 online also.
If I can pick my 1st lock 3 times with 2 paperclips without even knowing about Binding Orders, I'm positive a decent kit will help with practice! I'm subscribed & can't wait to learn more!
Do you suggest any good beginners kits? If so, THANK YOU!🫵🏾👍🏾
Well done. Very useful stuff in an easy to understand organized little video. This channel is a great find for a beginner.
Thank you for the kind words! I am always happy to hear how the videos are helpful :)
I’m a brand new hobby lock picker and this was extremely help for a newbie like me! Thanks!
I am glad it helps
Hi what causes the pins to set in a perticular order every time for each lock
Each lock is built with different tolerances, so the holes do not align exactly the same way which changes it. Also, the amount of tension you apply can change the binding order. More tension can lead to more binding pins.
Great informative video! I've been lock picking as a hobby for many years now, and the binding order is something that I stubble on quite often. Last time it happened was quite embarrassing though as I was helping my friend get back into his garden shed as he left the keys in it and clicked the padlock 🔒 shut, so I tried to show off and single pick it and failed so had to use a rocking technique with a city rake lol
It happens, some times you have bad luck. I am glad the video helped!
Fantastic video!! Just ordered my first pick set and have been watching your videos and the exercise in this was fantastic practice and such a simple exercise to boost understanding. Thank you!
thank you for the kind words and I am happy to read that you feel that it will help you :-)
Thank you so much! Just picked my first lock ever after trying rocking, raking, bitch picking for hours without any success whatsoever. This, in combination with your overset pins tutorial, was what helped me do it successfully. I just wanted to add something that made my life so hard; I was working on a Trelock, an old 5 pin German cylinder, and with your tips I had the binding order within 15 minutes or so. The problem was that the last pin always seemed stuck. Then I found out what the problem was; I had to completely release the tension when pushing down the last pin. The core had rotated slightly after pushing the first couple pins, and this caused the last pin to get stuck. When I released the tension, the core moved back a little and the last pin fit in, resulting in my first ever opened lock. Also, the core got stuck again after rotating 180°, I guess gravity caused some pins to fall down. This I could remedy by just pushing pins up randomly until it continued to rotate. Anyway, thanks again, I'm happy to sub. Would love to see you make a video on core rotation and what it can tell us when SPP, because I could only pick the lock by relying on BOTH the clicking sound and core rotation.
I have several videos on counter rotation when you are picking spool pins. Congrats on opening your first lock, you will learn each time you work on new lock.
I wish you luck in the giveaway and please consider yourself entered. I am glad the videos are helping!
This really cleared up a lot for me. Very well explained - thank you
Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helps!
This explanation is so helpful. I'm going to watch all of your videos now.
Thank you for the kind words
Very clear and informative, I have one clear lock I'm really having trouble with going to try your suggestions tonight 👍 thank you again
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps
Excellent teaching manner, good pacing, nice and clear all the way through. Thank you very much. Wonderfully refreshing after all the 90mph inarticulate gabble that infests so much of TH-cam.
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps. When I find some more time I am hoping to update these since I have a better setup now.
Binge watching your channel lately. While it is entertaining to watch legal professionals open locks, this channel has been more helpful for actually learning. Thanks! ( a riff from my favourite band at the end of every episode also brings a smile to my face!)
Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helps :) Also, you might be the first to have recognized the music :)
Thanks. Just ordered my first pick set (that cheap one on ebay) and looking forward to taking up the hobby. It's like a puzzle you have to do by touch and hearing, which I find pretty cool.
I wish you luck on getting started!
@@HelpfulLockPicker Thanks. Picked up some ML # 3115, 1, 3, 131, 40D, and also found an AL1105. It was kept in a rain cover and it's in really nice shape with the red anodizing. Should make a fun start. Thanks for all the tutorials.
Just started picking as a hobby a few months ago and your explanation has helped me understand the biggest mistake I have been making thank you so much .....brilliant video
Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helps!
Your video was exceptionally educational. Thanks for sharing. Could you please advise on picks used in this video?
I used picks from peterson lock picks
Thanks. Saw some other videos on this and didn't quite get what they meant since they'd just sort of rush through and assume you know how things work. Ended up picking via this method for once following instructions.
TLDW seems to "poke them up until you hear a click, then poke a different one, keep doing that until its unlocked"
I don't get why the order matters though
Mate I watched your video and applied the technique. first try of the day, I pick open my very first lock (4 pin cut away). Thank you for the help!
Congrats on the open!
Thank you!
Lock picking makes much more sence now for me.
Thank you for the kind words!
thank you so much for the helpful video - this helped me bridge the gap to SPP!
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps!
This is THEE best video to learn single pin. Its so hard to find good videos on it this one is all I needed.
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps!
This is very good. I'm a beginner and the padlocks I've started with -- a transparent lock, a Master #3, and an old Chinese padlock -- only have one or two pins binding out of 5 or 6.
Thanks for checking it out!
You really lived up to your channel name here; great video and really helped me out. I watched many other tutorials from big names in this category but yours was so much more understandable and helpful and after watching it I was actually able to open a lock twice in a row that I have been struggling with. Thank you!!!!
Glad I could help!
I didn't know anything about binding order until your video. Excellent video. Thanks.
thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helped :)
Wow I think this was the best instructional lock picking video I’ve ever seen! Bravo!
Thank you for the kind words, I'm glad it helps :-)
Tried for 15 minutes before watching this hilariously i literally opened my case in 35 seconds. Thank you another skill learned 😉
Glad it helped!
That was a great video on binding for beginners. On of the best I've seen in my opinion
Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helps!
Wouldn't click next without a like... Awesome work mate
Livingstone Ambwere thank you for the kind words :-)
How do you choose which pick to use? I have the same clear plastic practice lock as you have in this video, but when I add tension, I can't seem to get to the back pin very well. I usually end up switching the pick for my half diamond, which seems to do better of lifting that pin up. Do you have a video that shows how to properly set the tension wrench and get the pick in so it doesn't get caught and can reach all the pins nicely?
Check out my Lock Picking Home School playlist. I have a few videos on tension and I made a video on difficult keyways which could add some clarity
Talking about the cutaway lock at the beginning of the video (1:20), you mention the key way makes it a more difficult one to pick. I have a clear lock that has that key way. It was my first lock to practice with (and still my only). No wonder I found it so damn difficult to work with.
Something I wanted to point out, though, if a lock/key way can turn in either direction, simply changing what direction you rotate it can change the binding order
Yes it can change the binding order CW vs CCW tension
great video.. now I understand the whole moral.. for some reason you had showed and explained the whole concept much easier or better.. thanks
Thank you for checking it out, I am glad it helps!
Thanx a bunch buddy I know I'm years later to the party but I just wanted to say thanx. Vi now own 3 houses 4 bikes and a car! You're epic..
Joking obviously lol but good video buddy, I'm just getting into the hobby but I struggle to hear a single click on a normal lock and half the time Im not even sure if I'm pressing the pins or not although I have opened a few locks, more luck than anything really
Thank you for the kind words and not picking locks in use
What sets a binding order? is it the pin length? i have a lock where i progressively add more pins but i don't understand WHY the order changes.
How do you determine how many pins a lock has installed in the field trying to get someone in?
You can count them with your pick
Same question I was gonna ask. I'm guessing you just lift them all 1 at a time from #1. I could be wrong or not even know what I'm talking about. Let me know if I'm correct!
THANK YOU!🫵🏾👍🏾
You are definitely a great instructor and keep it up thanks
Thank you for the video. How do you know how many pins a padlock will have please?
You can look at the key or count the pins with your pick
Call Aza someone who has zero experience picking just off of sound I was able to get all of these right I was not watching the video because I was driving but this is awesome I feel like I want to become a locksmith even though this is for beginners
Thank you for the kind words, I am glad this video helped and you did not distract yourself while driving.
@ clock 6:45 pin 6 was the last pin to set; however, there were 1 & 2 clicks that you called out, but I heard other clicks you didn't mention. That said, I assume one single pin sometimes will lift up others, true?
You can lift pins with the shank of your pick inadvertently.
This is not a really great lock and isn't exactly the best demonstration of setting pins precisely but at the time it was the best lock I had
#1 best beginners video I have seen - awesome clear visuals and explanations!
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps :)
lockpicking always seemed super hard, but after watching these videos explaining all of the ins and outs it seems super easy. Except for some hard locks ive seen like those car locks that have 4 different sets of pins, 2 on top and 2 on the bottom, those seem like a nightmare X D.
One thing that makes locks very annoying is if there is difficult warding.
I just started lock sport ...and I'll find locks on side of road ...my question is have you ever tried picking a lock that just won't pick and if so have you ever sprayed a lubricant inside to unbind it if so what have you used. Have you looked at the more expensive lock pick sets and are they worth the money
I have used lubricants with good success.
Yes, I like the more expensive sets. I like Peterson personally. Sparrow and Southord are good too
Thanks man I can finally understand what binding means lol
Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helps :-)
Hola, Exelente video, muy buena explicación y en detalle, FELICIDADES Y GRACIAS por compartir sus conocimientos altruistas. Reciba un cordial abrazo desde Sucre Bolivia.
Thanks for checking it out
Brilliant video for showing and explaining binding order!
Great video. I've just got my set today. Wish me well on my picking journey!
I wish you luck on getting started and feel free to share how it goes!
@@HelpfulLockPicker
I'm struggling already.......
I've individually picked a generic padlock and raked it successfully. I have the key also.
I'm onto a disc shaped padlock that I can rake but not pick.i can find more than one binding pin and Its hard to know which pin im on and I'm over tensioning. If I let off on the tension, all the pins fall back to the beginning. I have a plastic lock like yours and can pick that in seconds.
@@shifty2755 if you are from the US I would recommend starting off with a basic Kwikset lock (not smart key). These have a wide open keyway, are easy to pick, and can be progressive pinned. If you were able to do that I strongly feel it would help supplement your learning greatly :)
@@HelpfulLockPicker
Thank you for the great information. I'm from the UK. I will look for one of those locks.
3 years old but still fresh , nice one brother
Thanks for checking it out!
Thanks for the amazing video HLP ! Hi to have the same clear lock but applying pressures all the way up to maximum on the lever only pins 3 and 4 click and all remain springy can't go any further any help?
Thank you for checking it out
I just bought a lockpick set and a table vise after seeing your videos. You are quite inspiring.
I am starting out with an acrylic lock and am most comfortable with BOK.
But sometimes the pins bind so hard, my pick cannot get through. Is it because of improper tensioning?
Chaitanya Joshi most likely you are over tensioning. You only want to tension enough so that one binds. Also check out one of my more recent videos on how to improve your clear locks you can get more use out of it :-) the way they come you often only have to pick two or three of the pins. If you have any other questions feel free to ask and I wish you luck!
Thank you very much. :) Staying tuned for your videos
Great video bro unfortunately only few pins work from those locks lol. I really enjoyed it . Good info and well explained
You are an outstanding teacher
Thank you for the kind words, I am glad the video helps. Also feel free to check out my Lock Picking Home School series if you would like to learn more!
4:02 After you set the 5th pin and before you set the 6th pin, I heard another click that sounded like a pin setting. What is that? I feel like I constantly run into sounds that sound like a set but they're not.
Without rewatching the video sometimes the shank of your pick hits the pins in the front. It is possible I set a pin closer in the front
I bought a 15 dollar kit with one of those see through locks off amazon and i can pick it with my eyes closed in like 15 minutes of opening the package. The biggest issue i have with the kit is the lock is almost commicaly oversized. Which is great for learning i guess but all the tools are also large. I cant pick any other lock i have laying around with them. Im already hooked ive picked the lock like 20 or so times now. The biggest steps i could give anyone is start at pin 1 and go down the line then back to the front if ur stuck let tension off slightly. Also it really helped to do top of the key hole for the thing u turn not the pick. Idk the names of the tools yet
Thanks for sharing your tips!
Excellent video! Reiterating many comments here, you're a great teacher and deserve a sub! Just wondering, are there any locks that reset the pins if you get the binding order wrong?
If you overset a pin it's up to you try to get it to fall back down or you need to remove tension and let all the pins fall down which "resets" the lock
@@HelpfulLockPickerThank you so much for your help! Really looking forward to learning this skill.
Good video. WHY do both of the locks have 3 pins that do not seem to be keeping the cylinder from rotating? I cannot visualize why that would be the case? Aren't the driver pins down below the shear line???
On this lock a few of the key pins sit at the shearline and also since the driver pins are keypins it makes them pop out of the plug easily. It is a poorly designed lock.
Hello again. Can you elaborate why knowing binding order is important? I have watched many of your videos. they are awesome. I am seeing pins as floppy, springy - the only other state is binding. As binding order is non deterministic and a byproduct of random tolerance issues with the lock, is it productive to try to set any pin not springy or floppy? This assumption considers that, the FIRST time in any lock, the binding order is unknown. Perhaps knowing the binding order only helps with more expedient picking? Ie, is not mandatory, at the expense of speed in opening.
Look up my video on true binding order. There can be an instance where you set the first two pins and the third pin will drop everything else.
When you get into high tolerance locks and even security pins it can make a big difference to have a game plan by figuring it out
Great examination of the binding order!
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps
Hey! First off, thank you for the help. I wanted to ask the reason as to why my lock eventually starts turning but I’m unable to open it. Are there situations where there’s still like a single pin left holding it all back?
Yes, often times locks are not opening due to not being fully picked. Some have secondary mechanisms like the Schlage Everest where there is a check pin which needs to be hit
6:46 If you take a look at the cuts of the bottom pins, you can begin to understand how unsafe rounded top pins are. The reason why 3,4,5, and almost 6 did not have to be picked at all were because the top pins were beveled. Since The cuts for the key would've been deep, hence why the bottom pins are really long, the top pins barely fall past the sheer line. Simply rotating the core without even picking those pins resulted in the sheer line rubbing up against the ramp on the top pins, automatically forcing them upward. If you ever actually get a lock, and more than 1 top pin is rounded, you should return it. It's really only used for pick practice or to key a cylinder to a horribly worn key. It's alot safer to spend the extra 5 dollars, to get a new key aswell, so the locksmith doesn't give you an unsafe lock
Thank you for sharing
This has he helped me to understand why a lock smith reaches the last pin then returns to the beginning to complete the unset pins. It's a clear understanding of the binding order. Now, where can I find a video that will show me an equally thorough explanation of the concept of a "false set?"
Check out my lock picking home school series there are are plenty of examples in there :)
I know this video is over a year old now but what picks were you using and where might I get them? Great video btw, really helping me learn
I personally use Peterson. I typically use their Hook 1 in 0.025" thickness. Their top of key way tensioner in 0.050" and 0.040 and assort bottom of the keyway tensioners
@@HelpfulLockPicker thank you!
This Video cleared up a huge mystery to me.. Thank you very much! Well done.
thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helps :-)
I think this video makes things very clear! Thank you!
Thank you for the kind words, I am glad you found it helpful. If you have any questions feel free to ask
what a great video. this one helped me more than any other out there
Thank you for the kind words and I am glad it helped
On the first lock Pins 2 and 3 were set by the shank of the pick as you were picking 4 no? Or were they simply pushed out of the way as the plug rotated?
I would have to re watch however it is common to have pins set by coming into contact with the shank
Hi very informative video would like to know how to pick hi security radial locks as fitted to my caravan big problem if I lose my only key ? as unable to get new one cut !
Martin Tasker
Why do you feel you can't get a new key made
for a given lock, is the binding order “created” or set by the manufacturer/locksmith ahead (ie like a “pin”)? Or, is binding order influenced or revealed “randomly “ as a byproduct of tensioning? Please explain if or how the binding order for a lock is always the same.
The Binding order is a factor between the pinning and the tolerances ( alignment of the holes) . It is not something easily consciously decided on
what is the best lock pick set on amazon. or what brand should I look for?
Amazon doesn't officially allow sellers to sell picks some sets trickle in but most of them are cheap sets that not very good.
If you check out the set I have listed in the video description on banggood.com that is about as good as it gets for cheap sets
Honestly Amazon really isn't the best option for pick sets- they're usually cheaply made with lots of filler picks that you'll probably never use. There are some reputable companies that you should probably buy from instead- while they WILL be a bit more expensive they're also significantly higher quality. The Southord PXS-14 is a set I'd recommend as it comes with a good variety of picks at a moderately low price. You should also check out picks/ sets from Sparrows and Peterson companies. Peterson is much more expensive than the others but they make very good tools as well
I have a similar clear padlock that came with my first pick set and it has the same binding order that yours does. 1, 2, 6. I wonder if that is by design. I can pick it by raking even faster than with individual picking.
I think they are just poorly made. I would recommend you flipping the driver pins over so they are not rounded where they meet the key pins. Also, some of the key pins were so long they actually sat at the shearline.
@@HelpfulLockPicker I guess that's why there were only three pins in the sequence..?
My masterlock discus binding order is 4-3 and that’s it haha. So much for the nice boron carbide shackle! And I’m using just a Bobby pin and flathead, takes all of 3 seconds!
Thanks for sharing!
I just got my first practice set and this is really helpful! Now i just need to watch all your videos! Thanks!
Thank you for the kind words and I wish you luck on your lock sport journey. If you have a y questions feel free to ask :)
Amazing description, very clear and precise.
Thank you for the kind words!
Thank you for making it easier to understand, I learned a lot from your video. Thanx
Steven Rockafellow I am glad they help thank you for the kind words!
Hello Helpful! I have a similar acrylic trainer lock, however nothing works like in your video. None of the pins seem to bind, regardless how much tension. They just float up and down without snapping into place. Any ideas?
Is it a pin and tumbler lock
@@HelpfulLockPicker Thanks for the response, but I don't see how that is helpful for my problem. As I wrote earlier. Nothing binds. There is no snapping sound. All 6 pins just move freely.
Hi my name is Jeffrey Morris and I'm beginner I find it difficult picking locks a listing for the Third pick sound what do you suggest
Also my hands cramp up
Jeffreymorris6969@gmail.com
Do you have a vise? That can help with the hand cramps. Picking is something that takes time and patience but you will get better :)
Best video I have ever seen when it comes yo lock picking
Thanks for checking it out!