Number/Brand of Picks - Opinion??

[BOBO]

Hi everyone. After several months of lurking and shopping, it looks like I have everything I'm going to need for quite some time. I have my favorite mail order places, my favorite tools, my favorite picks etc.

My question lays in having so many picks - I have the Peterson Rubber, Peterson Plastic, Rytan Regular and Mini blue, HPC, and Southard SS with riveted handles. No one "set" satisfies me in every way - I have a favorite for each situation for very specific reasons - and they are nicely housed in my leather Peterson Bi-Fold. Needless to say, extra picks can be found on all the coffee tables, counters etc., for picking practice at any time.

The question: Should I focus strictly on using my "favorites" in the ultimate set I have compiled - so that I can really develop a high level of skill using these tools? OR, Should I practice with as many different kinds of picks to learn to adapt to a multitude of situations?

I think this is probably strictly opinion, but welcome any input.

Thanks,
~Bob

[bushd]

I have my two favorites, and no other yet. One is HPC clone w/ Xacto handle hook (I am a Falle theory enthusiast) and a bogota style rake in the same handle. I shorted the hook handle so that the balance is perfect and the hook itself has been thinned from the usual hacksaw blade thickness. (I don't know the usual myself) These are the only two I use now and will unless I start practicing on dimple or I find that my hook doesn't work well with the currently unpracticed and not having wafer locks. I would personally say that if you plan to become professional then certain pick style is great but if you need improvisional tools just as a hobby or tight situations then I'd suggest practicing with different tools. I see no reason why improvisional would be neccessary for a professional or even hobby locksmith/picker because usually tools aren't what is locked away. I suppose it could be a matter of skill though being able to pick with anything.

[CaptHook]

Ideally, you will be able to pick with whatever brand is in your hand. But, theres nothing wrong with making a set of your favorite, most successful tools.
Chuck

[DeadlyHunter]

everyone has favorites, but as CaptHook and bushd have said it you should try to pick with just about everything. Then when you dont have your favorite picks near you; you will be ready for anything!