The rest is just technique -- locating and recognizing the state of each pin stack, manipulating the pins, applying torque to the plug. The basic skills of pin tumbler lock picking include selecting the proper tools, manipulating pins through the keyway, applying torque, and recognizing the state of each pin. Pin tumbler lock picking consists of raising the cuts on each pin stack to the shear line, one by one, until the plug turns freely. Many experienced locksmiths and expert lock pickers prefer "home made" tools to the commercial selections, especially for picking unusual and high security locks. The selection of the torque tool is just as important as that of the pick, but, again, commercial pick kits often fail to include a sufficient range of sizes and designs to allow good control and feel across the range of common locks. The proper pick and torque tool selection depend on the shape of the keyway, the features of the lock, the picking technique, what is billiards and the individual preferences of the user. In an ideal lock, all of the pin holes in the plug would be in perfect alignment with the corresponding holes in the shell, the centerline of the plug would be exactly parallel to that of the shell, and all of the pins would be exactly the same diameter.

In general, the torque tool should be as thick as possible while still fitting in the keyway, and of a width sufficient to provide good control but without interfering with the picking tool's access to the pins. The tool should amplify, not dampen, the rotation of the plug. Picking tools are designed to perform one of two basic functions: manipulating pins and turning the plug. Another style of torque tool has two "prongs" that fit in the top and bottom of the keyway, with a cutout between them for the pick. Other names for the torque tool are turning tool, torque wrench, torsion wrench, and tension wrench. The traditional torque tool is made from stiff, flat spring steel, bent at a 90 degree angle to provide a small blade that fits in the keyway and a long handle to which torque is applied. Vertical orientation requires a 90 degree twist in the blade. Most commercial torque tools are designed for horizontal orientation. Torque tools may be oriented vertically (with the handle in line with the keyway) or horizontally (with the handle perpendicular to the keyway); different people have different preferences. Once you've mastered the two pin lock and can distinguish reliably among pin states, you should have little trouble with a three pin lock.

The disks are connected in sequence via interlocking cams such that one rotation of the dial engages the first disk, two rotations engage the second, and so on. I have not been able to figure out the names of the games, but one of them is played with playing cards (see previous post) and the other is not. And I have heard stories that contradicts such. Wouldn't it be wonderful if both management and the union address such stories of sorry plight to set the record straight? The basic recommended pick set for this course includes four picks and four torque tools. Of course we will not get it perfect the first day because the body has to get used to stretch, but ideally will feel stretched a little more each day, that do not force too much and hurt us. I play safe and it executes much better than I even imagined. I got a bye my first match but heard my future opponent say, "I have to play Melinda next." I stood a little taller overhearing that and when we finally played, a few mistakes on her part and good control of the cueball on my part led to a 7-2 win in my favor.

Typical commercial and residential locks have five or six pin stacks (although four and seven aren't unheard of), with from four to ten distinct cut depths used on each. It's much easier to learn each skill in isolation, using locks specifically set up for the purpose. This tournament I wanted to focus on my pre shot routine again - that seems to be really helping me of late, but I noticed I didn't do that too much this time. A bank shot effort on the 2-ball from Daryl Peach saw Roberto Gomez back on the table again! Both the pick and the torque tool also amplify and transmit feedback about the state of the lock back to their user. This style of tool is especially useful for holding open automotive locks that have spring-loaded dust covers. Much of this is simply a matter of individual preference, but certain choices here can also have an impact on performance.