pick handle definitions

[quasar]

every single set out there seems to have a description like ' includes X picks with metal handles, X standard picks, and X tension tools'

but when looking at the pictures,I can't really tell the difference. The 'metal handles' look like they have a brand name stamped on them, but look not too different from the picks right next to it

can anyone explain ? I'm assuming that the metal handles are somehow better, since the ones with more metal handles cost more.but if that was the case, I would expect either all metal handles or all standard. the fact that there are parts of the set which have metal handles suggest that there is some more to it than meets the eye

[Romstar]

Metal handles are easy. It's a lot easier to understand if you go to www.hpcworld.com and look at their picks, but here is the gist of it.

A lock pick with a metal handle has three pieces. The main pick, which has a "plain" handle. IE: the handle is just where you hold it. There there are two smaller pieces covering the regular handle. These are either riveted, welded or even glued onto the regular handle pick.

With HPC, they are riveted, with SouthOrd they are welded. I haven't seen a glued handle pick in a very long time.

That's about all there is to it really.

Romstar

[quasar]

So, I guess that having the thicker covers are better then

But why do the sets have maybe half the pics with handles and half without? if the ones without handles really do not need handles because they are not used as often or whatever reason, then why can you get the same set with all metal handles?

actually I would have thought the imperfection of the rivets would make the feel of the pick worse compared to a single piece of metal. Especially if there are tolerance problems between the three pieces

[Romstar]

A lot of people think that about rivets, but I have to tell you. I get great feedback on my HPC picks.

The reason you have both though is that ANY handle is going to muck with the feedback a little. Also, some people really do prefer not having handles at all.

It's a preference thing.

Romstar

[Jerbz]

I think they also did that to reduce costs? As a 14piece set without handles costs roughly $25. $10 for the case, and if each pick is worth $1.50 and the handled ones are about $4.00 . Think of the price difference :/ .

Jerbz