...but we can't bash open a wooden chest.

As a warrior with a very low lockpick skill, this really svcks. I don't know how to pick a master lock. my picks just break instantly with no room for error.

Add to that bash open a wood door...or at least chop true it with an ax.

Thanks to Skyrim you can build up your lockpicking skill so you don't even have to worry about it! bwahahaha.

i find lockpicks so easy. always have 50+ in my inventory, never use more than a couple.
you just have to feather it really gently and slowly go around until you notice that there was slightly less resistance, then you kinda home in on it.

I've popped expert locks with about 25 lockpick skill with relative ease, it isn't that bad.