Noob Picker UK Pick Advice

[theaddicane]

Hi Guys, I'm a noob here, and a noob to the world of lockpicking. I'm excited about getting into it.

A worry I have though: In a mad rush of enthusiasm, I purchased a pick set from lockpickingtools.net. I just purchased an 11 piece set, of standard size. Now, after researching more, I descover that perhaps slimline tools are what's best for the uk.

So, will these be useful at all? I don't want to be starting out with a set that's not going to be appropriate, as it will just make another problem for me as I'm trying to learn Which variety of locks will they work in, is what I'm wondering, if any.

Oh, can any brits reccomend a good beginner lock?

Thanks alot.

Oh, here's a link for the item I purchased: http://www.lockpickingtools.net/cart/pr ... t=2&page=1

[Afisch]

Standard sized tools with be very unmanouverable inside any smaller keyways as most are over here, I had a few standard picks and decided to grind down the nicer ones to make them more useable. Those tools still might be ok for the larger keyways or if you can get any US brand locks over here.
If possible try and change the order, or maybe order some extra slimline picks from southord.com indervidualy.

[JackNco]

I'm not sure about that. I started off with a standard set because I did exactly the same thing.

You WILL need to get some slimline picks though and I don't recommend grinding down standard picks at all. Grab a yale rim cylinder or similar.

John

[theaddicane]

Alright, cheers guys. I'll probably just get a slimline set.

[theaddicane]

Ooh, I'm double-posting here. I can't seem to locate an edit button on this forum...

So, I guess before I rush of and buy some more picks, I'd ask any of you lovely experts to reccomend a set from this slimline selection:

http://www.lockpickingtools.net/cart/home.php?cat=1

I realise that the case is "the more the better" with picks, but what size set do you think I would need for a beginner who'd like a set to last him a good while whilst he develops in lockpickery?

Tbh, If someone says I could live with the 9-piece, I'd settle for that price

[Afisch]

I did settle for the 9 peice and have used it without feeling I needed any extra picks for many months now. It gives you all the variation to see what type of picks you like.

The only major thing the 15 peice has going for it is the extra tension tools. But at quite a large price increase.

The 9 peice should be fine.

[NickBristol]

Get the 9 piece kit but also buy a cheap grinder and some hacksaw blades plus wiper blade inserts for tension tools and start making your own. Maybe start with like-for-like copies to begin with then move onto filling gaps between the 9 and 15 piece sets then onto ones that suit your style and needs as you develop as a picker.

[JackNco]

You already have a case. just order the picks you want individually from www.southord.com

Slimline short hooks (they do round and flat tips get 2 of each and see which work best for you.)

Slimline long hook (they do round and flat tips in these as well I would say just get a rounded tip in these because of the angles you will be working at. but thats only my opinion. probably best to get 2)

A half diamond (or 2 is probably better)

A snake

A saw rake

A deforester if you want to try it out.

then keep them all in the same case. thats what I did anyway.

John

[theaddicane]

Cheers for all the input guys, it's appreciated.

Happily the guy read my email before he dispatched the picks and changed them for a 9 piece slimline alternative.

I'll fiddle away for now, then I'll consider following JackNco's advuce regarding buying indivial additions to my set, and NickBristols's regarding customising.

Thanks again, I'll see you around the forum

[theaddicane]

Hi Guys, I recieved my picks.

I got a super cheap lock from poundland, which I managed to pick in about five minutes

I know my success was mainly due to the questionable quality of the lock, but I'm still thrilled.