I think a pin brush is fine. I use mine all the time, but had the same problem you do. The pins sink into the rubber backing. Look for a pin brush where the rubber backing doesn't collapse. I have been thinking of checking out the Chris Christensen brushes at my next all-breed show.
I occasionally use a pin brush I bought at Tractor Supply but the best for a Labrador double coat is a good Rake (also bought at TSC)especially at shedding time.
Someone at a show told me they use this and that it's much better than a curry comb. I haven't bought/tried one yet, but their dog's coat looked great. Wonder if anyone else has tried it.
The Kong Zoom Groom looks very similar to the rubber curry I use, but I can't tell if the Zoom Groom is rubber or not. My rubber curry is fantastic at getting the hair out, but messy to use in the house as the hair doesn't stay on the brush, but flies everywhere.
Someone at a show told me they use this and that it's much better than a curry comb. I haven't bought/tried one yet, but their dog's coat looked great. Wonder if anyone else has tried it.
I find that zoom groom brushes do NOT work on my dogs. I like a slicker brush and a fine toothed comb for getting out too thick undercoat.
Yes, I use a rake also and just love it! Especially in the beginning when there is so much coat and they are just starting to shed. It is great at getting out gobs of fur in just one stroke. Have an empty trash can handy, you will fill it up in no time!