jackknife v set for first pick

[Horsley54]

Was just curious is it recommended to go with a set with multi picks in it rather than a jackknife for your first picks. I was looking for something very portable so i was looking at the jackknife but it seems like everyone suggets the actual sets rather than the jackknife, just curious about peoples feelings on that one.- Horse

[Romstar]

The jack knofe set is a fine expedient or emergency set for someone with some experience in what they are supposed to be feeling.

For learning, the jackknives are pointless in my opinion. Gow with a good quality basic set, and learn with those.

Romstar

[CitySpider]

Sorry I'm responding a couple days late; I don't check in as much as I used to.

I started with a jackknife pick. It worked very well. However, I think I would have had an easier time if I started without it.

My suggestion: buy yourself a jackknife pick and then a couple of loose picks. That way you get a cool new toy, so you're still excited about the hobby, but you also won't get frustrated as much, since you're learning with proper tools. Besides, it's only a couple bucks extra to get some individual picks.

Oh, and I never suggest the actual sets. With the smaller sets especially, you end up paying more for the case than for the tools. As long as you're aware of that, if you want to get a set, that's just fine -- but to me, it feels too much like getting ripped off, paying more for the packaging than the contents. Sure, cases have a use, but nothing a $.25 checkbook from a thrift store or an eyeglass case that you got for free with your glasses or any number of other things would do nearly as well.