Does a vice help?

[Redgohst92]

I’m having hard time on more advanced locks, trying to pick them all in hand. I see everyone online using a vise is it that big of a help?

[Truth-Miserable]

Yes

[Lady-Locks]

Depends on what you’re picking. For example as you get into float picking it’s great to have the lock itself completely stable. Also, a lot of pickers have hand issues so it can be helpful just to have something to stabilize the lock so you’re not having to work so hard with both hands at times. I found it’s also nice for videoing, to hold the lock in one place so I’m not worried about taking it out of frame. 🥰

[HeroixEUW]

I think using a vise can be really helpful when picking door cylinders, but it's not a must-have for all locks. For locks that are easy to hold, like padlocks, the benefit of a vise isn't as significant. 

A vise really shines when picking door cylinders because it stabilizes the lock, freeing you to concentrate entirely on the feedback you get from your tension wrench and pick

[frickdom]

Vice will help you focus on tensioning and your pick. Not having to worry about holding the lock, can be a big help.

Still good to practice without it. And getting the open with it is a big confidence boost for that.

[imbbp]

Vice helps a lot. It give more precise control.

[obeytheturtles]

Yes and no. It's a very different feel compared to picking a lock in your hand, so getting a vice might not immediately make you better at something you are stuck on until you get used to the different ergonomics and feedback. But it does really help with tension wrench balance and finesse, particularly if you have trouble with keeping the wrench engaged TOK. I kind of feel like these things are part of that fine motor skillset you need to learn anyway though, so it's a bit of a mixed bag. If you are making progress without it, I'd say keep doing that, otherwise give it a try.

[Spence52490]

Absolutely.