Southord prices have really gone up in the past few years! I would order from lockpickshop and use the discount code (lp101). First, about the 14 piece pickset, many members here-- including me started on this pick set. A few observations:
The 14piece set without the metal handles can be rather harsh on the hands, depending on how you grip/ how tightly you grip the tools. This is based entirely on personal preference. I have no problem using the "handleless" tools, but I don't really enjoy them either.
The picks I use most often are more like the southord slimlines than their regulars. Admittedly, I haven't used a SO pick in a few years. Now a days, I use Petersons, but most of all I use homemade picks. Many members here end up using home made tools, or commercial tools other than SouthOrd. However, SO is a good starting point. They will help you figure out what you want in a pick, and you can go from there. Or for about the same price you can get what many consider a nicer set from HPC.
http://www.lockpicks.com/index.asp?Page ... ProdID=552
A word on tension wrenches. Don't buy extras of the "L" type you will get in almost any set. You can make these for next to nothing. Get a few windshield wiper inserts. (ask for old windshield wiper blades from your local automart. Usually they will be in the trash bin). Cut them to a suitable length and bend as you desire. These can be bent without the addition of heat.
