Oh, everytime I do not have to fiddle in the inventory is a win in my book. Enhance Ability on Gale with Guidance on Shadowheart works like a charm for just about any situation. You don't cast it for a DC10 Lock if your rogue has +7 to sleight of hand.
Until I find something better, I tend to use the Gloves of Power on my main, even if he's not the dedicated lockpicker. The melee bonuses on these glvoes are pretty good, and I don't have to switch to a thief for every lock I come across.
