picks too big? and why different styles?

[franklp]

hey, i got a14 piece kit today with 10 picks and some of them seem too big for my lock .THey go in but push the pins around without my encouragement. Plus, when do you use all of the different types of picks?

[Chrispy]

Are they slimline picks? Both of my non-homemade sets are slimlines and I have very little trouble with keyway space.

[SFGOON]

You're new - get easier locks.

[Eyes_Only]

For the most part you'll probably use no more then 2 or 3 picks out of your set once you get real comfortable with picking. It depends on each person what picks they perfer. I usually only use a half diamond and a short hook to pick most locks, rarely do i ever touch those other crazy rakes that come with a decent sized set.

[franklp]

I dont believe they are slimline. I ordered a regular 14 piece set. And as for a new lock, how much should i pay for a new one? Ive been using a lock that came with out house but we never installed.
And how much good does raking do?

[illusion]

raking is designed to open a lock in minimum time... loads of info about this already... MIT guide talks about it as well...

most of the picks in the 'super sets' will never get used... i reckon you could sand, or file the picks down to slimlines...

if you told us where you lived it would be easier... the UK and europe use small keyways in there locks so slimlines are needed, american locks are bigger and so normal picks work. pictures as well would help

do a search for "training lock"... been discussed loads... Era is good if you live in the UK

[franklp]

i live in the U.S. and have managed to open my practive lock about 15 times. My record is 13.21 secs.
So far ive only used a regular tension tool and a long hook.
So there isnt really a need for the diamond and ball picks?

[Chucklz]

I personally have little use for SouthOrd diamonds, but Peterson's and homemades can be the cats meow.

[c1187w]

The other picks can be used for certain locks and are slightly more optimized to picking those. However, it's easier to keep track of 2 or 3 picks, and if you use those picks more frequently you will become more skillful with them.

So while the other picks are nice to look at and can be used, it is best to use the 3 or so you are most comfortable with.