Multitool picks or pick set?

[~abc123]

I am considering purchasing a set of picks. I would like a set that is easy to transport and has a selection of different picks.

I was considering purchasing one of those swiss-army style sets but I am afraid they will not have enough tools compared to a small set of individual picks. The problem with the individual picks, however, is that I'm afraid I will lose some of them and it is quite a bit more tools to be carying around.

My question is this: Based on the number of locks you are able to pick with a swiss-army style pick set versus that of a small set as described above, which would you recommend? I am looking for a compromise between picking ability, price, and portability.

Thanks a bunch


~Matt

[Mr Ules]

First you must know what your preference is. If you started with a jacknife set chances are that you will be more comfortable with that type of pick set.
In regards to which pick set has more picks, most of the time you don't need many different picks. I only keep three or four picks with me because that's all I need. However, If you're a beginner or use your picks frequently, you many want to have two rakes and two hooks (only carry one of each). I would have to recommend that you go with the standard pick set.

[mgaidica]

I prefer a pick set...I have owned a jacknife set and the only advantage is size, otherwise it takes longer to switch picks, which you will do (I rake and then usually use a hook to set the last pins), also single picks will be much sturdier, and you will just feel better holding them. Really if size is an issue, a jacknife will do, but if your serious go with a set; it doesnt need to be a complex set, but ide rather have a set.

[xodishox]

from what people are saying is with a jackknife you dont get as much feedback from the pins than a standard pick set, if your a begginner i would go with the set mainly because you get to "feel" the pins and because its cheaper, so if your a newbie to this it wont matter you accidently break a pick because you can replace it easily with a new $2 pick you can buy seperatly, as with a knife you would pay much more and have to take the knife apart and replace the head and put the knife together again.

hope that helps

[xodishox]

there is the other option of making your own picks to the way you prefer, like the style, handle, head, length and width (keeping in mind that locks have narrow keyways)

[Luke]

I broke another pick today second in 4 weeks, guys who use diamonds heres a tip, if u ever consider changing to a hook like am now, remember the diamond is stronger than the hook, so with the hook be alot more gentle!

[ne0nerdz]

i had the same trouble, but i finally thought that a pick set was bettter because its not all that much to carry, and if it's your first set then ull be too cARE full to loose em, got for the set more err....windows or something like that, as in more chances and new methods and al that crap