How to Choose a Guitar Pick

When choosing a guitar pick, it's good to know specifically how it will be applied. Not all picks are the same. As a guitar player, I'm always keen to use a heavier pick because it gives me a bit more control in my performance. Though in the studio, I often use a vast array of picks. So, I'm here to help make your decision a little easier.

Things You'll Need

• Guitar pick
• Guitar

Instructions

1. First, it's good to understand that there are many guitar picks for different applications. These differences become much more obvious in a recording studio environment, when every detail is placed under a microscope.

2. For rhythmic strumming, I recommend gravitating toward a very thin pick. It is generally very flimsy and easy to manage. The benefit is that it offers a more percussive timbre than a heavier pick. This is great when you just need the bright, percussive, sheen. I prefer the Fender Thin pick for this application.

3. A medium pick works a little better when you're trying to provide a more solid performance. It is a higher density and tends to offer more sustain and less percussive sound. Again, I gravitate to the Fender Medium pick.

4. For more controlled performances, it is common to use a heavy pick. I prefer a 1mm Dunlop pick. It gives me more control and a feeling of security knowing I'm holding something that feels more weighted. I can "attack" the strings with more ferocity and still maintain command of the instrument.

Tips & Warnings

• It's always a good idea to not buy one pick, but several. Perhaps, in bulk. All music stores will provide a vast selection of guitar picks. I suggest buying in bulk. They always seem to get misplaced or find their way into your laundry.

• Be careful not to leave guitar picks lying around if you have small children. Like many small objects, picks can be harmful if swallowed.