(1874) Review: SWICK (FINALLY) Arrives!

[@gordongekko6001]

Thanks Bill. Got mine about a week ago and was thrilled to receive it. I agree that the wait was worth the end product and I do believe they nailed this. While I certainly don't condone the abuse that David and James received (especially death threats and threats of harm to their homes and familes - which is way over the top), there was a lengthy period of time where there was absolute silence from them. At least from my perspective, which I would hope represents the "rational" contingent of those who backed the project, that was most frustrating for me. I would have rather seen the project be a no go with good communication than a go with just long periods of silence. I also would have rather them asked for additional funding than just fade into darkness. These things happen - and frequently - not only in new product launches, but new company launches as well (why we have multiple rounds of VC/angel funding, PE money, etc.). I would have gladly kicked in some additional capital (limited as it may have been) to help move this along. I suspect I am not alone. Another misconception I believe is that many people on kickstarter don't understand you're not buying something - you're backing an idea. It isn't Amazon or eBay. Sometimes (many times if we look at VC or PE money for example) those investments don't pay dividends. So when they do, investors do want to receive more than they put in. But the key here is the communication from the idea/company and its investors. And, that, for a while, simply didn't happen which was frustrating and I suspect that added fuel to the fire for the internet trolls and also contributed to the stress on David and James. I appreciate all the blood, sweat and tears that went into this product - and am glad to see it was brought to completion. I am also grateful that you provided such a detailed review of not only the product but the back story as well - very insightful. I think there were good take away learnings all around; sadly, I doubt we will be able to do anything about the trolls who engage in the vitriol and puerile behavior (which most of them couldn't say the same thing to someone's face if their life depended on it). I wish them nothing but success as they move forward and am intrigued to see how they do.

[@Vortechtral]

Thing with people is what you might find let's say a reasonable turn around for communication. Let's say they updated once every two weeks. For some that simply isn't enough, or the information they are giving isn't enough. I would wager 95% of the backers, or investors on kickstarter's have no real idea on what's going on, they don't know how much time is being spent on R and D, waiting for something to arrive, hell they may simply think even WITH regular updates they are simply lying and just did this to steal their money. These people that start death threats, or just threats and abusive nature back something JUST to get a thrill out of trying to destroy someone else's life, or at least try. This is why I will never back anything on a kickstarter. Not that I would be one of those people, but the amount of hatred that kickstarters produce is something money simply should not be put towards. It's not worth MY money to see someone else's life possibly get ruined. This is how I think, and I cannot help that think, if I invest then am I a part of that problem as well. It's a rabbit hole I will never go down.

[@rationalbushcraft]

I just try to keep in mind that these guys had the skills to pull off a great tool design. What they don’t have is degrees in communications. And I suspect that even if they did you will always have a few people who will find a way to bitch if you give them a winning lottery ticket.

[@Ardren]

@@rationalbushcraft I know what you mean, and I know communication can be difficult, but degree isn't needed for a couple of sentences every few weeks. That alone would have gone a long way.

[@LokiCDK]

Kickstarter is gambling, and some people just aren't equipped for gambling. Either equitably or emotionally.

[@Ardren]

> there was a lengthy period of time where there was absolute silence from them I actually went through the Kickstarter posts, and I don't think this is the case. The longest I can see is under 2 months between updates in 2019. Just briefly looking at the updates they seem to be exactly what you'd want to see. This is a **long** way from a bad Kickstarter

[@jimthegmanswick3143]

I want to thank Bill publicly for this video. The review was really nice and him taking the time to give the human side of the story was incredible and I cannot thank him enough for that. He was an early supporter of the KickStarter and I would guess when things were going badly he was getting some of the same sort of flack directed at Dave and I. This video has apparently explained to my family and friends more that I have been able to in the last two years about everything that has gone on and the goal of making this tool as well as who the market is for such a tool. Again I say thank you for that as well. Obligatory we did not pay for this review statement. Bill was a KS backer and so it could be said if anything he paid us for it. Thank you.

[@enlightened1ne]

I ordered one of these as soon as I saw this video, mostly to support you because you’ve been through some tough times! Well done for not giving up and for bringing a great product to market!

[@P_RO_]

You did well when walking away could have been easier. Because of that integrity and with Bill showing us how excellent your product is I will be buying one.

[@bstrickler]

Honestly, it didn't feel dragged out. I personally love hearing the backstory of what went into a project.

[@vulcangunner58]

I'm one of the 954, got mine about 3 weeks ago. I agree with your opinions, and I'm very pleased to be a part of this KS.

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

30 minutes? I said "no way am I going to make it all the way through this". Well 33 minutes later, I have to say awesome job on this vid Bill, and you are one hell of a GREAT ambassador for the lock sport community.

[@erniecolussy1705]

Thank you for this information.

[@mattfleming86]

This should be REQUIRED material to review before starting or investing in a kickstarter.

[@thawk2007]

I am a swick Kickstarter supporter, I’ve never commented before but passively watched, this wasn’t a big thing for me. The frustration however I saw was mainly as a lot thought they were being scammed, people thought they were being scammed as they saw no updates coming and regular missed commitments. Communication improved a lot in the 2nd half of the project and frustration seemed to drop. I think there is a lesson for others on the importance of communication in project and kickstarters. Delighted to see this project make it to the finish line after a hard journey.

[@JoeHamelin]

More like this! I love the deep dive into what it took to make a product. Thank you!

[@Brad-lv3lu]

Bill. It takes balls for someone to put an idea out there. For those that just dream ok I get it. To those that turns dreams into reality. Bravo. My hat is off. Congratulations.

[@andypire6278]

Thanks!! Great information in the last part of the video!! I think too many people on the internet expect instant gratification and have no interest in learning how things work 😢 I’m going to get one when it’s available

[@davidschaer8974]

Thanks for doing the deep dive into the design process. People routinely don't understand how "the sausage gets made" and have been conditioned by cheap products from overseas to think everything should cost next to nothing. Skilled design and skilled manufacturing are not free.

[@JimmyJinIA]

The breakdown is excellent Bill. I could only hope 1st year Engineering students see this as a case study. And I hope folks in general appreciate the process needed to bring a 'simple' product to market. Reminds me of owning a business or driving a truck, so many folks have misperceptions.

[@LegalLockPicker]

Once these become available I'll be purchasing one as well. Thanks for the great review Bill, this was perfect.

[@DonzLockz]

Wow, one hell of a story! I contacted them recently about their next run but I'm glad you took the time to explain their situation. I will be ordering once they are ready.👍🤓🇦🇺

[@Aceoffroad4x4]

Thanks Bill. That's an incredible tool. Took some incredible people to see the final product complete. I was not involved in the original kick starter. 2 years is a long time. I will be looking forward to getting one of my own. You're review really sold me on it

[@rosssanchez9279]

This thing looks GREAT! Good job guys!

[@geoffk43]

Thanks for explaining the hardships these guys went through to keep their word and produce a product. As soon as they are available I will definitely order one.

[@roysammons2445]

For the most part the Lock Sport community is absolutely brilliant. My say in this would be, if you are interested in investing in a kick starter project, please be kind, considerate and show patience, oh and understanding. If not, keep your money in the bank and let it build up interest there for you. All respect to the two guys who invested a lot into this. I just want to add "Well said Bill".

[@no.springs]

I completely agree with you about the community--I'm super new to all of this but so far everyone I've had any interactions with has been very kind, excellent representatives of the community as a whole, etc. But I agree with Bill as well: there is something fundamentally broken with how "people on the internet" (regardless of what community they're from) tend to act and how they treat others. Whether you're playing a simple game on xbox live or running a Kickstarter, the likelihood of someone reacting WAY inappropriately and going absurdly out of bounds just seems to be much higher these days than used to be the case. Adam Savage (of mythbusters fame) put it far better than I could in a youtube video last month: "we're all stressed because of this virus, and we have to pay special care to try to go easier on each other, and ourselves." Everyone needs to give everyone else a break, and try to be more understanding (despite the fact that we're probably all on edge moreso than normal, so we might have a pretty strong urge to do the opposite). It's great advice; it's also really hard to do unless we make a concerted effort. I'm sure mistakes were made on all sides but, anytime there are threats or people are put in danger over $60...it's time for everybody to step back, take a breath, and remember that we're all in this together. (Just my $0.03 -- ie, my two cents, adjusted for inflation.)

[@roysammons2445]

@@no.springs 😂👍🏻I agree with you agreeing with me. And we'r both agree with Bill. Edit: inflation 🤣

[@no.springs]

@@roysammons2445 Yeah but I was easy to convince. I'm pretty sure that everyone is just awful. Present company excepted, of course. But the rest of those jerks are just...yuck.

[@bluejayoutpost9170]

Bill really good listen. Life has its ups and downs for sure. Thank you 🙂

[@kekasaurusrex3645]

The spread of picks is fantastic, I'd just swap a few to suit my profile. The SWICK itself is a good foundation. Hopefully profits allow for new add-on products for thinner picks, different profiles, and replacement picks. Congrats to that Team on their Launch, I purchased one today.

[@brianblackwell2308]

Thank you, i knew a little bit of those details on making the prototypes but the rest was new info for me. I will buy one as soon as they come to market. Beautiful tool.

[@czibbell74]

This provided some really great insight into the difficulties in producing a product like this. People joke a lot about many kickstarters being scams, and how they just disappear with your money. I think this gives you a better idea of why so many fail.

[@brycenbaarstad1580]

Wow 😲 that's an amazing tool

[@ChrisB_NC]

I think we should all pay them back for their perseverance and sacrifice by ordering one of these fantastic looking pick tools when they come available. I know I will be ordering one!! Thanks Bill for the update!

[@ronmathis9020]

Very well done Bill. Many of us don’t appreciate what goes into development of new products. Once they finish fulfilling the initial orders I’m going to order one just to support the project besides being a gadget freak and having it in my bag.

[@bluejayoutpost9170]

Thanks Bill I like the set there 👍

[@dannybockius2255]

Im going to school for mechanical engineering. This was a great walk through of the process, thanks for taking the time to explain this story

[@mr.perfect1er]

You are so very very very right! Something definitely went wrong with the internet culture! Threatening families lives over $60! Ridiculous! Thanks for putting it all in perspective. God Speed and Blessings You and Yours, and all of America's entrepreneurs.

[@Skinflaps_Meatslapper]

Internet culture is instant gratification, and while it effectively mirrors society at large, the internet magnifies some aspects. Want something? Find it online and buy it. Want it sooner? Pay extra for faster shipping. Want something even faster than that? Find a business that's closer to you and pay expedited shipping. Even considering that, people will still complain about shipping taking too long. It's like people think these companies have cannons that shoot products directly into mailboxes from across continents, as if there's a highly trained artillery team manning the cannon just waiting for you to click submit so they can pull the trigger and send it your way at Mach 10.

[@jayduffy7615]

Thank you for the review & for the back story Bill! I appreciate the sacrifices that you make as well as everything else that you do for the lock sport community!

[@_dmfd]

I've known David for about 15 years and that dude is awesome. He's skilled in so many areas and a genuine guy. $75 for the final product is a great price imo. I remember back in 2019 when he showed me the original concept prototype that was 3D printed and it seemed great even in its early stages. He's come in handy plenty of times when we lock ourselves out of our cars too 😂 I'm glad to see his venture was successful after all the blood sweat & tears himself and his partner went thru. Great review btw!

[@BeercanBushcraft]

That was probably the best, heartfelt review I have heard. Well done, excellent. All the best 👍

[@mrnicomedes]

Thanks Bill, and thanks for the long version of the story!

[@Cipher1603]

Wow!! I am in the lock picking area despite my pic, I’m in a government agency. I’ve never been involved in a kick starter, and I would have never imagined the money and stress these folks have gone through. I want to thank you for opening my eyes and I’m sure many others!!! I hope these folks are doing well and become very successful!

[@Keidict]

It's insane to think that all the hard work and sleepless nights only brought them even more heartache and stress. They put everything on the line to bring the kickstarter to completion and all the got was hate and death threats. I'm willing to bet those who threatened them don't have the strength of character to do half of what they did. Great job and thank you for sharing .

[@peterkelley6344]

Or even have the half the courtesy to apologize for their behavior.

[@Mur-lock68]

Watched in it's entirety Bill Great video Not an easy undertaking but the final product looks great Congrats to all involved with SWICK!

[@doublejaylar]

Fantastic video & explanation about the entire process! Glad these gentlemen were able to persevere through all of the logistical obstacles & ridiculousness of disrespectful internet clowns!

[@Aceoffroad4x4]

You said it! That's what I was trying to say

[@DeadkingAZ]

"It's not just because I'm a dick. I mean, I AM...Anybody will tell you that." Bill, you are the man. LOL!

[@keezin1]

it takes a strong man to look at yourself and say "you know what i am a bit of a dick,and i'm ok with it".

[@P_RO_]

When people tell me "You're a real a-hole!" I respond "Yes I am, and it's because I have to deal with people like you who waste my time telling me things I already know." It's lots of fun watching their teeny little minds trying to figure out whether I've insulted them or not and whether they should risk saying or doing anything else.

[@peterkelley6344]

Thank you BIll for expounding on the troubles of startups and design development. It was a great discussion.

[@ccadama]

@Bosnianbill. Thanks Bill for the entire and rest of the story on how the SWICK got made. Many people can jump to conclusions with little or no information and rarely ever apologize. I wish Dave and James the best. It was hard enough to invest their time and their money to get the SWICK made. They didn't give up. It was a learning experience for everyone. Hope you, Dave, James, and your families stay safe and well.

[@a.8874]

Thank you Bill for explaining the complexities and unforseen challenges and frustrations that come with designing a product. You explained it PERFECTLY. People often overlook these difficulties or simply don't realize just how much effort goes into making a product because they don't know all of the little details that go into making the things we love, and often take for granted, a reality. FYI, I'm speaking from my personal experience designing products so yeah, I know what it's like to be in their shoes.

[@charicner]

Love the review, might have to try to grab one of these since I'm always moving around

[@FusionDeveloper]

Schuyler Towne is someone I paid for a Schlage cutaway lock and when I found out I wasn't able to get it, I told him to keep the money and consider it a donation. I really wish I could have got the item, but he was a nice guy and motivated me, so I considered it better to let him keep my money.

[@steves5933]

Wow, what an amazing video. I just hope those guys will do extremely well with this product. I knew that there is a lot of things involved in the design and production. What I wasn't aware off is how a tiny little notch can cause so many problems. Thanks for letting us know and I wish all involved with this product the best of luck.

[@darrellhenderson5499]

Thanks Bill for a very interesting video explaining the production process of this tool. I can't imagine what they went through for the Sport. I am into the picking sport at only two months and am having a ball watching your videos. Being 73 years old I have so much to learn in so little time I feel, but it's so rewarding. Thanks again.

[@triblade1669]

I'm also a proud backer of this project and I loved hearing you tell the story of what went into it.

[@helidude3502]

I’ve had quite a few ideas about several things. Sometimes it is my complete creation, others are modifying existing products or new products from a current manufacturer. It can be frustrating when another company isn’t interested in implementing your idea that actually works. Yet they will produce a novelty product with no functional purpose that doesn’t sell. ( Snap on tools 😒) As for my own ideas, (or other’s ideas) I’ve seen the potential for the pitfalls that may or will come. This video is helpful shedding light on many potential problems developing a new product, especially one in a niche market. This can be a great educational tool in preventing someone from diving in way over their head. I’m not so sure I would have had the confidence to have completed this project myself after the earlier pitfalls. Looks to be a great tool. I plan to get one for myself and one for a gift. Hope their investment in $ and determination pays them in full.

[@kenvanmoorhem8280]

Thank you Bill for explaining this to people! Many people just don't understand. I completely agree that some of our communites actions were simply shameful.

[@TheRevWilliam]

I love my SWICK, even though I am an amateur student. They did a lot to make this an amazing product. I enjoy this video also, giving me history on an amazing product!

[@philthejet]

Like I said, very interesting video. Eye opening for many who may not be in a business minset. I was surprised my previous comment was taken down, I certainly did not want to be offensive in any way, don't think I was. Thanks for the great vids.

[@toddtownsend8507]

Bill’s best video to date! Wow, well done to the team that didn’t give up. I’m buying mostly to reward their tenacity,

[@joegallo8774]

I love everything I learned,amazing teacher 👍

[@cmarano]

Very Interesting analysis of the mechanical challenges and the design choices.

[@masonallinder3266]

Thank you for your point of view on that Bill I honestly never would have thought people would be like that, but of course. I will definitely be buying a couple after seeing the hard work they put it and everything that you have recommended this much I trust. Never been disappointed.

[@NeoYAG]

Well worth watching to the end! Thanks Bill for your thoughtful and caring insights!!

[@michaelclatecki8157]

I understand what you're talking about, I work at a manufacturing company for 22 years and still, we make springs and wire form stuff for other companies, so we have to get everything pretty precise it might be plus or minus 5 lb or plus minus . 020 exedra, And if we mess up and we had to do some rework we know that's extra money now we're losing because we're doing it again to fix something on a part so now that cost is going down for how many minutes or hours extra or devoting for certain parts if we or machines are messing the parts up that we didn't catch, we make parts for like John Deere or Kirby Parker hannifin aerospace aeroquip ABS Honda exedra Toyota hood latches Jeeps for their tilt handles we make springs for you name it. So when the pandemic happened we were still alive because half of our other customers were still up and running so we had to stay running to supply them. So luckily we make parts so we relied on other companies staying open. And material got a little expensive but we didn't lose too much time I think I lost 20% for a few months then hopped right back on full time again. Although prior to the pandemic I was doing overtime for a year or so or longer and slowly went away to just -20% cut back lol so most of us really got hurt relying on that over time then missing one day a week. But I think almost everybody realize that kind of stuff these days. Then as a machinist like I am or production person I understand the business side a little of what you're talking about how many hours and stuff like that. Like when people talk about everybody should get $15 an hour. What about Amazon when they started paying minimum wage of $15. Does that mean they get a extra $5 or so to equal out what they were already making. Like our company was shut down if they just paid $15 an hour to everybody. Doesn't sound much for one person but times that by a hundred that extra $6 or whatever that adds up each hour each day each year. Then everything else will go up so nothing will really change if my calculation is right but anyways I understand a lot of stuff you were talking about

[@RocRizzo]

Thanks for that one BIll. Very useful information. Glad that you brought out this aspect of these sort of projects. Perhaps others will now understand how difficult they can be.

[@brianogram5194]

Thanks for the "hotwash" Bill. The abuse they suffered by people that supposedly wanted to support is heartbreaking. I grew up in the 1980's. There was a time that you called someone and they weren't home, they didn't answer. There was no caller ID to know if someone called. There (at the time) were no answering machines to let people know you called. You had to wait and call again. Now, with cell phones there's a sense of urgency with every call/text that is just over the top. I stopped carrying my cell phone last year. There are generations that only knows instant gratification. And that's a shame. Life simply isn't lived like that. I entered the contest, but probably won't win. I do plan on purchasing at least one, probably two, when they're available. Take care, and thanks again.

[@johndaniels4009]

I wish i could go back to my land line and brick nokia but these day this smartphone is more a computer than anything.

[@no.springs]

I bet that Nokia had a battery that lasted about 12 times as long as my Pixel does... I remember the good old days of candy bar phones that you could stick in a drawer, and then turn back on a month later and there was still 80% charge left. Sigh.

[@russellgale]

Thanks for the inside look at the kickstarter. It's important to know the challenges in producing a new product like this.

[@maus9777]

this looks way better then the original prototype, this is something I will actually consider buying

[@RobinPillage.]

Damn Bill just hearing this kinda took the wind out me just imagining going through all that. All those hurdles with the stakes getting higher and higher and then having a bunch of pissed off lunatics launching crazy talk at you while you're busting your ass and putting more and more on the line to get it done really must've been the icing on the cake.

[@radicalxedward8047]

And that’s the story of many small businesses.

[@dommer6977]

I can’t warrant getting one of these as I’m a noob hobbyist but I wish all the best and success for these guys! The dedication and desire to please the customer is worth $70 alone! When I’m in a better financial situation I’ll definitely buy one! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@NotGamerButPlayer]

We appreciate all your work sir. Thank you for all the videos

[@tomferrin1148]

Great job with the backstory, Bill. You make a lot of good points and I like your thoughts on the emotional toll that a project like this can take on people. The best thing we can do for David and James now is to go to the SWICK web site and order one.

[@VIRAL_DNA]

Happy Retirement! And thank you for all your videos and work!

[@kelmor11]

I am so bummed I missed that kickstart can't wait for the retail sales!

[@OneIroNauT_1]

Thanks Bill.

[@christinapalmer]

The flat turners were never destined for the turner compartment. Originally the set of 6 bent turners I designed for TOOOL were supposed to go in there, but due to production difficulties and cost overruns, David only included 2 of the 6, leaving sloppy space that was supposed to hold the other 4, hence the plastic spacer. The set of 6 turners can be ordered from TOOOL or the OEM Southern Specialties, and will fit in the turner compartment as originally intended.

[@Bushman4]

The "Tremendous Turner" set? Good to know, thanks, and great job!

[@christinapalmer]

@@Bushman4 Thanks! Yes, or lockpicktools.com/tension-tool-2500-series-set/

[@picklocks]

Correct, and if you do decide to carry the six tremendous turner set you will not be able to carry the broken key extractors. It's a trade off for now but I think the tremendous six is worth not carrying the bke.

[@no.springs]

That turner set is one of the first things I ordered after I started toying around with this hobby (after my first pick set,of course). It's an amazing set and well worth grabbing--but I suspect that goes without saying when talking about anything Christina designs! 👍

[@mikevandebunt811]

When I opened my Kickstarter package and saw the two grooves on the back of the 3d printed spacer I thought "oh, that's where the spiral extractors go." And guess what? They fit. It makes things a little tight, especially with the shim (I got 2 shims...) in there, but it provides a little protection for the extractors. I was a little shocked to find that the top of the keyway tensioners came pre-rusted. Yours in the video have a few specks, but mine have a LOT of visible corrosion. The thicker one is particularly bad. It's just surface corrosion, and I'm sure I can polish it off, but if I saw this in a retail package I would definitely not buy it. I'm just glad it's here after all this time.

[@picklocks]

Sorry about the surface corrosion. I will say we did start moving much faster this past month to get finished as every month we don't make a payment on our loans the interest continues to grow. We could have tossed them in a tumbler but the time just keeps adding up. We hit the 100% shipped mark today and will begin public sales Saturday. Hopefully as things settle down we can do some greater quality control and also add some of the additions to the SWICK we wanted to do in the first run but couldn't. I hope you enjoy your SWICK and I look forward to hearing your reviews of it.

[@aspen7599]

Very very informative and super interesting story. Thank you for telling it. It's so interesting hearing all the hard work needed behind products and how much determination you really need to make something work. Most of us have no idea how much hard work is put into things and it's humbling knowing the story. Thank you.

[@grumpygus81]

It's a shame that it was such a rough road getting here but it looks like a great end result. I'm wishing I saw the Kickstarter early though, it looks like it was worth the wait. A lot of people forget that they're backing an IDEA, there's no guarantee of a return and you have to be ok with that. Great indepth review 👍

[@ssprinklep9107]

I will be buying one of these! Thanks Bill

[@sixstringedthing]

Good stuff Bill! A great example of how something that seems pretty simple and straightforward can turn into a bunch of headaches once you actually start trying to design and manufacture the thing. I've already seen a comment from another discussion thread saying "it doesn't look THAT hard to make...". A big thanks to David, James and Christina for remaining committed to delivering the final product. I'm way too poor of a lockpicker to do a full demo video with my SWICK but I'm enjoying testing out the different blade profiles on various locks. Thanks again guys, sorry you copped so much shit over this and I hope you are able to make a decent return on investment.

[@anthonyberrios8944]

Great video bill

[@haj78]

WOW !!! that was a KICK in the butt for a starter ....with all respect for the the kickstarter heroes and the volunteers ✌🏻🇸🇪

[@frankbiz]

Wow that's great, convenient pocket size. Thanks for a awesome review.

[@davidplourde6083]

I have gotten in to lock picking to help my mother with her rental homes. We had a renter we evicted change the locks. So I had to pick them to let us in. I then took the locks to a lock smith to have them rekeyed. Why through away good locks? Even if they are just Kwikset locks right?

[@jamescrihfield9620]

Thank you for all that you've shared over the years, you're channel is my original source of interest in Lock Sport and I thank you for everything you've shared! I wish you a happy retirement good sir! 🤗

[@RunikRox123]

Really nice review. I am a huge fan of these "pocket"-style pick sets (shout out to covert companion). I like the fact that this one includes the tensioners in it as well!

[@TheAntibozo]

Great discussion, Bill, and not dragged out at all-insightful and interesting to the end.

[@MichaelEdelman1954]

Great video, and a great lesson for anyone starting a kickstarter or funding one.

[@sciloj]

I work for a company that makes products consisting of similar parts, and I can testify that injection molding must not be the first choice of technology to produce a handle like that if we aren't talking about a much greater budget and a number of parts produced in the first batch. CNC-milled handles made of G10 would be by several orders of magnitude cheaper in development, visibly more expensive in production per part, incomparably more flexible in a redesign process. And then, if there's a demand for it, it's possible to upgrade to an injection-molded part. Also - yes, micro-joint placement and acceptable width must be specified on a print/model given to your laser-cutting vendor because they have no idea about the part functionality and will do as they please without asking. Having at least some skilled machinist on a team or being able to talk to one could save quite a bit of hassle and money.

[@no.springs]

Great read, very informative. Sad story though. I hope James and Dave aren't too discouraged from the whole debacle.

[@picklocks]

We started the storm looking to the horizon, plunging along. However, we are pretty stoked today. Today we made the 100% shipped mark and Saturday we often the flood gates for public sales. Let the madness begin. Lol

[@no.springs]

Oh, that's great news! I'm very new to locksport so I'm still building up my toolkit. (Currently I've found that I can't go wrong with using Bill's recommendations as my own personal "buy it now" button, so I'll be sure to grab one when you guys go live!) Good luck this weekend and thanks for not giving up; I'm sure as time goes on you'll see that the rational/supportive members of the community far outnumber the internet crazies.

[@lewiswithrow1936]

The ZWICK is very light as well as compact which is important for pocket carry. I am a little ashamed to admit that I doubted that I would ever receive my unit because the setbacks seemed unending. I apologize that I didn't understand the degree of personal integrity and perseverance possessed by David Storm and friends. It is a fine tool and I am happy to have it. Well done.

[@Richard.212]

That would be a nice addition to any lock kit.

[@scottdeter1960]

I love my swick and carry mine daily. Watch out for those little magnets holding the top keyway tensioners. Two of the four magnets actually popped out but thankfully they are strong enough that they stayed on the turners until I noticed and super glued back into place. Other than that, no issues with the device. Would recommend.👌

[@HandgunSafe]

Thank you for this, Bill! I needed to hear these stories, because I'm developing prototypes of my own for a lock-picking tool. I haven't decided when I will take the leap of seeking funding. Now I feel better about mulling this over a while longer. Oh, I hope nobody tells you your stories are boring. Your stories are good.

[@no.springs]

I know; the stories of the best part right? I want to meet the people who think the stories are boring--wait, no I don't... I can't imagine they'd be very much fun to speak to, lol

[@steveamsp]

Great review. And an even better explanation of what kind of effort goes into this sort of endeavor.

[@Mister6]

Looks great. Looking forward to finally getting mine one of these days

[@thomasfischer1601]

Awesome Idea and great tool!

[@lesross4442]

Love the product. If I don't win the give away, I'll buy one anyway. I'm a multi-tool junkie and novice picker. Good job!!

[@MrJools70]

Hate the fact that so many put so much of their own time in to this and end up getting hate mail and even having to move :O,,Great Vid Bill :)

[@ergonomiczero2228]

They didnt deserve the swatting but let me tell you, they made and broke almost every promise they made. Bottom line is they did a crappy job planning and estimating and communicating. It’s a nice product though, little rough but certainly workable and better with some sanding. Has 99% of what you’ll ever need in a nice compact package. Would recommend

[@coreycallow4228]

Looks like an awesome product!

[@1mpunity]

Thanks for the in depth info re: problems that were encountered

[@thecrappylockpicker4696]

Don’t be sorry Bill I listened yo the whole video and was very interested in hearing the story of how this awesome product came to fruition great video definitely going to enter the draw and as I won’t win will definitely buy one when released 👍🏻

[@novo1178]

Wow, Bill great review and Video! Never new how much went into building a new item. I could tell that you really understand how hard it is it succeed, and make things happen on both sides of the equation. Thank you. Bill Keep up these truly awesome Videos and reviews!!

[@WOOTthisGUY]

Thanks for sharing that story. Makes we want to buy it that much more.

[@ratyoke]

Really interesting to hear about the production process.

[@mercenarystagehand]

Nice explanation of the struggle that went into making these. I wish them the best of luck, and success. I applaud them for their perseverance in getting a final product at the risk they endure for it. Too bad people don't seem to understand that it's a start-up and not an established company with product already ready for market. I hope they can get their production and sales running smoothly, little things like relocating the tab locations for the the laser cutting can make a huge difference in time, labor, and costs that can make or break a project.

[@paulmiller7396]

Beautifully done video. Thanks.