I am new to Famicom collecting and have some questions

[CantUseUnderScores]

Just recently I got my first Famicom game. I will be using an NES and 60-72 pin converter.

1. What tips do you recommend when buying games?
2. How would one open famicom games with common household items?
3. Would a bootleg game/multicart work?

[HVC-Man]

1. Buy from either here or just browse eBay, lots of decent sellers
2. You can't, they are often held together with plastic clips that require the cartridge to be squeezed open. You're best off just cleaning with alcohol and q-tips.
3. Yes, if your 60-72 pin adapter is properly wired.

[Arkanix38]

1. Shop around, wait for the right price and don't be suckered by "Buy It Now" listings unless the price is actually fair. Buy games you REALLY want and don't spend more than you want to (use the price check thread here if you need verification). If there is an RPG you want to play, ask around for a translated cart or learn how to program EEPROMs and solder. Flash carts like the Everdrive N8 are also a viable option for playing games like Final Fantasy III and other RPGs that weren't released outside Japan but have translation patches available.

2. You need Vise Grips and a flathead screwdriver. This method is not 100% reliable (tabs can break, the pcb can snap if not done correctly, not all Famicom Carts are made the same). Clean the contacts as HVC-Man described and you should be fine.

3. Yes, ensuring that the bootleg is made for an NTSC system and not one of the PAL Famiclones


EDIT: Also forgot to say... Welcome to FamicomWorld!

[CantUseUnderScores]

Thank you both. I will consider all of your tips. I also disabled the 10NES chip, which should help.

[Jedi Master Baiter]

1. Using any/all derivations of the title of the game you're looking for may yield better results, and make sure the game you're buying is the one you're looking for! Also keep in mind you may already have the game.

2. Get a flathead screwdriver, choose a hot day, and pray.
3. Do keep in mind that certain companies, like Waixing produce their games for famiclones or certain region consoles and may not work on an NES (even if the lockout is disabled). But these a few and far between.
4. What would you recommend the first game I get? I'm glad you asked--

Spoiler

GRADIUS II!

[close]

[CantUseUnderScores]

Hello there. Sorry for responding very late 
Thank for the tips, especially the flathead method. I dont have any special tools like this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgCiAOmgeFc
Again, sorry for late reponse...