Picks are recommended for both electric and acoustic guitar players. They protect your fingers while allowing you to play faster, louder, and with a sharper tone. To find the unique pick that suits your style, weigh the elements below.

3 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Guitar Pick

1. Shape

Shape affects how the pick plucks off the string. Beginners should choose a larger one with an easy grip and a rounded tip. The standard shape is an elongated triangle with rounded edges. Experienced players may want to try a teardrop pick, which is longer and less wide, making it more difficult to hold on to but providing a better connection to the strings.

2. Thickness

Thickness affects how the string responds to the pick. Thinner picks are better for strumming, but they don’t provide a lot of control since they may bend in unusual ways as you play. Thicker picks are better for articulating notes, creating a fuller tone against the string. Beginners may find it easier to work with a thicker pick ranging between .71mm and .84mm.

3. Material

The material will affect how well you can grip the pick with sweaty hands, how quickly it wears, how flexible it is, and how easily it glides. Nylon is a good light-weight pick that creates a clear sound, and it often has a textured grip for a better hold. Tortex has a more matte surface, which doesn’t slide off the string as easily. This makes for a solid tone and an easy grip. Wood picks are thicker and wear quickly, but they provide a very bright tone and have a unique style some players love.

Whether you’re just beginning as a player or are an experienced musician, 5J Music is a one-stop-shop for guitar players and music lovers in Elko, NV. They have a wide selection of guitars and accessories, such as picks, at reasonable prices. You can fill out your music selection with their vinyl albums or hone your skills with their in-house lessons. View some of their inventory on their website. Call (775) 778-0484 or message them on Facebook with questions.