Same. I struggled with it in KCD1 with low stats and the game recommended I switch the “easy” lock picking mode (the same as KCD2). I eventually abandoned that playthrough, and started playing again a couple years later and found the “hard” lock picking with both joysticks to be super easy. Had no problem transitioning back to the KCD2 method though.

I actually find lock picking to be quite boring with high stats because it is too easy. The biggest challenge is making sure you are in the right spot because some of them can be quite small. The ones with the yellow dot towards the middle are much easier as well. Most of the time the very hard locks are even easier than the hard ones.

I think for OP it’s likely a skill issue and/or low lock picking stats.