I have several sets of raimundo's hand-made Bogota and Sabana style picks. As previously mentioned in other threads on LP101, these picks have to be used to be really appreciated. Pictures, although very impressive, don't really do them much justice.
In the first image, here, you can see the original Bogota set, comprising the Bogota rake and a half-diamond (which can be inverted and used like a hook), both of which have a tensioning tool as a handle. For those interested, the idea was conceived, by Ray, whilst in Bogota, Columbia. The method of use, in Ray's own words, is to "Insert the rake and quickly jiggle it (like you had too much coffee...)"
These tools are extremely effective against security pins. 'Pulsing' the tension also helps.
The second image, here, shows the original set, but inverted, which is used for locks mounted in the inverted position (Euro-style) Again, both tools have a tensioning tool as a handle.
The third image, here, shows a Sabana and hook combo. Again, both have tensioning tools for handles. The advantage of the Sabana, is the positioning of the peaks toward the front and rear of the keyway and a lower middle-section, to allow for low-setting middle pins.
The fourth image,here, shows the Sabana with an ergonomic handle. The design of the ergonomic handle requires that the tool is looped over the middle (bird) finger, to increase control/stability, and the remainder of the handle is gripped between the thumb and index finger. Without knowing this, some may incorrectly use the index finger through the loop.
You do not have proper control over the tool this way.
Another advantage of the ergonomic handle, is that the tool cannot be dropped. If ordering ergonomic handles, stating ring-size of the middle finger can be helpful towards getting a good fit. (I have very large hands and fingers, so had to do a little tweaking.
)
The fifth image, here, shows an inverted hook with an ergonomic handle. Again, the method of use is to loop the pick around the middle finger, and the application is for inverted locks.
The sixth image, here, shows a rake for double-sided wafer locks. Note the off-setting of the peaks/valleys of each side of the tool. This is to allow for the staggering of the wafers in double-sided locks.
The seventh image, here, shows another rake for double-sided wafer locks. (Again, note the off-setting.) This tool has a
crimped washer to limit the amount of force applied to the wafers.
The finish on all of these tools is mirror-like and this is not purely for cosmetic purposes, although the tools are quite pleasing to the eye. The smoother the tool, the less wear effected upon the lock. Also, feedback and technique are enhanced when using a tool which glides effortlessly within a lock. Amongst raimundo's previous work experience is a career as a jeweller.
The craftmanship which goes into these tools is testament to his creative design as a lock-picker and his finishing skills as a former jeweller.
These tools are now exclusively available here. Contact for pricing and turn-around details.
I hope you can enjoy them as much as I have.
If anyone else out there has these tools, please feel free to post your opinions in this thread.
Regards,
Mad Mick.
If it ain't broke.....pull it down and see how it works anyway!
