First attempt at making picks (Hand tools only)

[Bmrtin]

Here is some photos of my first 2 picks. I made these using a bench vice and a collection of flat and round files for metal. I plan for my next go at making picks to show the construction process for the people that want to make picks but do not have power tools. Please let me know what you think (Im still sanding them)

Both


Hook Close Up


Rake Close Up


Side note I was walking through Home Depo and found a set of Hobby Files for $10 and looked like something that I could use to try my hand at impressioning

Complete set (with case and handle)


Round file with the handle attached


I want to end my first post by saying thank you to eveyone here. This site has been most helpful and inspiring.

[fgarci03]

Hey Bmrtin! Welcome to the forum!

Your picks look awesome! Yeah they need a little more sanding (as you said you are doing) but very nice nonetheless.
Personally I like to use a slightly (just slightly!) larger hook.

The rake looks fantastisc! I would definantly confuse it with a "computer designed" rake.


Keep at it, fantastic first post
I'm glad we inspired you, and I'm sure you will also inspire us!

Happy pickings

[ARF-GEF]

I agree with everything Fgarci said. Very good looking pick, congrats on making them!

[GWiens2001]

Quite a nice job. You might consider smoothing out the inside of the hook, so it is less likely to lift another pin. Keep up the good work.

[Bmrtin]

Thanks all for the nice comments. I have a question about sanding picks. I have looked at several posts on here about making picks and they basically say it will take about an hour to sand these and to finish them with a 800-1000 grit paper to a mirror shine. My question is there a reason outside of looks to sand these like that? Im going to do it any way because I want them to look professional

[GWiens2001]

Yes, a smoothly polished pick practically glides in and out of the keyway. It is also easier to feel feedback.

I start with 120 grit sandpaper, the progress through 200 and 400 before finishing with 800. Each grit is used to remove all filing/sanding marks of the previous grit. If you start with 800, it won't take an hour, it will take 4 days!

Good luck,

Gordon

[Bmrtin]

That is a perfect answer. Thank you

I am currently using 180g then moving up from there because I dont think I can spend 4 days sanding

[kerti]

Use large flat file to start cut the shape of pick. That increase the making speed.
Why do you not use electrical tools?

[beancurd]

Cool picks! What are they made from? Did you cut them out of sheet metal first?

[xanlockpick]

Nice pictures, Thank you for the answers. At first you will encounter some problems but I find a website that you can get your tools, try to check this website.

[smokingman]

Very nice work, once youre done they will look "store bought".
Great skills.

[mseifert]

Nice Work ..

[cuttinedge1]

I would consider thinning out the shaft of the pick for tight keyways. Other than that they look great