Offset hybrid or deforest diamond?

[sisk]

My dollar store hacksaw died yesterday and I've decided to use it's remains, specifically the .02" thick steel blade, to make a pick. It'll be the first one I've made for myself since up till now I've been lazy and just bought them. For tools I've got a dremel and a needle file set. I've got a nice assortment of hooks and diamonds, and I'm happy with the rakes I currently have. So my question for you more experienced pickers is this: if you had to choose between an offset hybrid and a deforest diamond (I've narrowed it down to those two), which would you make to add to your set?

[Squelchtone]

So I'm guessing "offset hybrid" is the commercial name that Sparrows calls that particular pick shape based on my google searching. For those of us not familiar with these or all the models Sparrows offers, could you please post photos or links of what you mean to make sure we offer opinions based on the correct types of picks?

Based on the google search photos I found, I'd say neither. For me, a hook pick, half diamond, or S rake is all you need, I own a Deforest and I never pick with it, but I bet someone else here will say they never use an S rake and love their Deforest, so it has a lot to do with personal preference even for the experienced pickers here.

Thanks
Squelchtone

[sisk]

What I know as an offset hybrid is labeled MSL-11 in this image. It's basically a deforest diamond with a half-ball instead of a half-diamond. In fact the other thing I've heard it called is a deforest ball.



I've heard somewhere (I don't recall where) that they're good for a certain type of lock I'm having difficulty with that can't be discussed outside of the forums I can't yet access.

[Daltonj21]

That's not the "offset hybrid" as I know it. To me the MSL11 I'd a deforest ball.. the offset hybrid from sparrows is a mix between a short hook and a half diamond. "Hybrid". I haven't heard of anyone else calling a pick that.
http://www.sparrowslockpicks.com/product_p/11.htm

Anyway,I'm going to be that guy though. I have both, a bunch of deforest diamonds and a few offset hybrids. I really like both its really comes down to what I pick. If I can get the deforest in the keyway, I'll use it or a gem most of the time. If I'm picking locks with small keyways, its probly going to be the hybrid or a standard hook. That's just me.