Help please! Key extractor usage

[peddicoj]

Hi guys! This is my first time here, I'm a noob who's used only paperclips and safety pins... Feel like I'm OK at it, but I seriously have a ton to learn! Any help is appreciated, read the forum for a long time and you all seem very knowledgeable. Anyways, I am buying a KGB concealed Lock pick set. It is off lock pick tools. Com. While not my first choice (gimmicky), I'm getting this set because I rarely find myself practicing at home, it's usually at school, rehearsal, etc. I need that portability. Anyways, I'm wondering if I should substitute the broken key extractor, doesn't seem that useful. Maybe a hybrid offset instead? I don't know, you all are the professionals. How often will this come up?
Thanks in advance!!!

[GWiens2001]

The broken key extractor is used a lot, if you deal with broken keys. Most of us hobby pickers, myself included, use a file and sandpaper to convert that extractor into a more useful pick.

Gordon

[Comrade627]

I carry mine around because 1. You never know, and it's a rather unique pick type. 2. I use mine (Southord version) to count pins as well. Sort of like an insert, hook pin, light tug=confirmed pin, move on kind of technique. Mine looks about like this http://www.southord.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=SouthOrd&Product_Code=Individual-Standard-Key-Extractor-SP-13

[GWiens2001]

I carry mine around because 1. You never know, and it's a rather unique pick type. 2. I use mine (Southord version) to count pins as well. Sort of like an insert, hook pin, light tug=confirmed pin, move on kind of technique. Mine looks about like this http://www.southord.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=SouthOrd&Product_Code=Individual-Standard-Key-Extractor-SP-13

Might be a better idea to flip it over and use the flat back to count pins. The long angle before the hook on the key extractor can have you miss a pin if the back of the plug is closed off or is very short.

Gordon

[peddicoj]

So it's worthwhile? I mean, the set only has five other picks... Thanks for your fast responses! Another quick question, what's the difference between a flex tension wrench and a standard?

[Squelchtone]

oh man, you're not going to learn very good technique with little stubby pick handles like that KGB set has. At least you already realize it's a bit of a gimmicky item. If someone is already a proficient picker, they can use that sort of set in an emergency because their fundamentals are so strong, they outweigh the limitations of the tool, but I wouldn't recommend it as a stepping stone in learning how to pick. Only, and only if you plan on opening the simplest of cabinet wafer locks, Kwikset deadbolts or cheap padlocks.

keep practicing, and keep it legal,
Squelchtone

[peddicoj]

Thanks squelchtone, for that awesome advice. Do you guys have a suggestion for a better set that I can still store in my pocket?

[Squelchtone]

Thanks squelchtone, for that awesome advice. Do you guys have a suggestion for a better set that I can still store in my pocket?

do you carry a bookbag or backpack all the time, that could be a good place for a set. Based on the locations/activities you mentioned, I have to ask, are you in high school? If you're under 18, I don't recommend always having a lock pick set in your pocket, you're just asking for trouble. You end up showing your picks off to someone and then word gets around, and next time someone's ipad is missing out of their locker, guess who they'll be talking to first. Btw, a basic Southord set in a snap over leather case fits just fine in a jeans pocket. it's no longer than a pen, just a bit wider.

[peddicoj]

Thanks a lot, that's great advice. Our lockers are combos, but rooms are not... Defibately catch your drift. I'll be careful, really only pick in private anyways, but I'll b careful nonetheless. So would a pick set beside southard fit in my pocket? I love their picks, but the price tag is almost always high. I'm looking $20-$25 range, any advice? And thanks again!

[Squelchtone]

Thanks a lot, that's great advice. Our lockers are combos, but rooms are not... Defibately catch your drift. I'll be careful, really only pick in private anyways, but I'll b careful nonetheless. So would a pick set beside southard fit in my pocket? I love their picks, but the price tag is almost always high. I'm looking $20-$25 range, any advice? And thanks again!

um, Southord is the economy brand, they always cost $20-$25... you must be thinking Peterson or something.

[peddicoj]

Yup, Peterson. My bad. Awesome! Thanks a lot, you've helped me a lot!

[nick08037]

Hello peddicoj,

I am no expert in these matters but if you have not already done so you may want to consider making sure that a responsible adult in your life is aware of your new hobby. It could help you when questions are asked.

Welcome to the world of locksport, have fun, learn and most of all be smart about it.
-Nick

[peddicoj]

Already done Nick! I got a wierd look, and had to explain the creedo, but they are aware I would never pick a lock like that. Thanks for the advice!!!

[Bluenkight]

Hi guys! This is my first time here, I'm a noob who's used only paperclips and safety pins... Feel like I'm OK at it, but I seriously have a ton to learn! Any help is appreciated, read the forum for a long time and you all seem very knowledgeable. Anyways, I am buying a KGB concealed Lock pick set. It is off lock pick tools. Com. While not my first choice (gimmicky), I'm getting this set because I rarely find myself practicing at home, it's usually at school, rehearsal, etc. I need that portability. Anyways, I'm wondering if I should substitute the broken key extractor, doesn't seem that useful. Maybe a hybrid offset instead? I don't know, you all are the professionals. How often will this come up?
Thanks in advance!!!

Hi Peddicoj
I picked up the KGB set from them but the also had a nice beginners set with a book which I also got. I would get the beginners set with the book the set is a nice little compact set which fits well in pocket or a small pencil case. good luck

[rs4ever]

The broken key extractor is quite useful. Just 2 weeks ago I locked my front door deadbolt and the key broke inside.

I had my key extractor inside my house, the front door has broken key inside, side door is dead bolted from inside. I had to climb through my windows to get my broken key extractor to remove the key.

Lesson learned! Keep extractor inside garage!