Pick Set Buying Philosophy

[Renfield]

I'm wrestling with that newbie "first pick set to buy" conundrum. I've researched pick sets (from the Peterson line down to the nameless cheap stuff in Ebay and Amazon). I'm aware of what's out there and what the prices are. I'm only a "wannabe" recreational hobbyist type, so I'm not training for a locksmith career and I don't think I'll need one of those "got every tool in the world" professional pick sets that a master locksmith would be proud to own.

That being said... I'm uncertain of whether to try to go in on the cheap or whether it'd be better for me to buy the best I can afford because those tools will be more robust, more durable, longer-lasting and easier to use than the cheap ones. I'm leaning toward buying the best I can afford.

So -- I'd like to hear what experienced pickers think about what the most sensible first time pick set buying philosophy would be for me. I think the idea of better tools with a better reputation sounds best and that this isn't a prudent time for me to try to save a few bucks. What do those of you with experience think?

[Squelchtone]

If you listen to anything I say on this forum, do not just buy the made in China $10 dollar set from Amazon because you're just trying out the hobby and don't want to invest a lot.

At a bare minimum spend $30 to $40 bucks on a Sparrow or Southord set or a few individual Peterson picks such as a short hook, city rake, and half diamond. I can't repeat enough not to get the made in China Amazon or ebay pick set that comes with a transparent practice lock. Those picks are complete junk..

I have been known to give people a really hard time when they think a $30 dollar pick set is "expensive" because for me spending $30 to try a new hobby is honestly not a lot.

Hope this helps,
Squelchtone

[billdeserthills]

Most of my picks come from HPC because that's what my distributor carries & they're well made & inexpensive
https://www.craftmasterhardware.com/sho ... 20Shopping

[Renfield]

Thanks for the replies. I went with what I think is close to if not top drawer. I ordered a Peterson Governor pick set. It looks like a good "all any beginner is going to need for a while" type set.

[billdeserthills]

Thanks for the replies. I went with what I think is close to if not top drawer. I ordered a Peterson Governor pick set. It looks like a good "all any beginner is going to need for a while" type set.

Peterson is good stuff, I have a few of their items & they're very well made