About The Picks
There are a number of variables for any pick, each of which can affect the general feel and playing experience.
The standard options for PhatPhish picks are listed below, and you can find various combinations of these on stock picks in the shop.
If you're interested in ordering something with a specific set of features, or even a custom pick which has something about it which isn't covered by these standard features, then please get in touch.
General
There is no “right” pick size, shape or style – it’s all very subjective and even a slight difference can have a significant effect on personal preference. Picks are grouped into basic categories according to size, but within these there are a number of variations in style to cater for personal taste.
Picks come in a variety of thicknesses, including multi-ply versions many millimetres thick. They may be thicker than what you’re used to finding on general sale at your local music shop, but thicker picks offer better control and picking dynamics. Also, people have reported that they find that something heavier can actually help prevent stress & strain in the picking hand.
Please note that all picks are made and finished by hand, so there may be some slight variances in sizes, etc. from pick-to-pick.
(In some of the descriptions I refer to models from other pick manufacturers, such as 351, Jazz 3 XL, Big Stubby – these references are purely as a general point of reference for comparison, and are not intended to suggest that the picks in question are direct copies).
Basic Shape/Size
The overall “plan view” of the pick:
- Classic - In terms of shape and size, this is fairly close to a 351 style pick (the mainstream sort of pick that you find in the counter-top display in your local guitar store). Very much a general purpose pick.
- Standard - Slightly smaller than a mainstream/351 style pick – if you get on well with something like a Jazz 3 XL or Big Stubby, then you should feel at home with this. Great for strumming, but also lends itself well to more focused picking
- Ludus - A little smaller overall than the Standard, this pick has a shape reminiscent of a shield. This is intended to work well for focused, controlled picking using the main tip but you could also experiment with using the one of the upper corners, which offer a wider picking tip.
- Buzzard - A fairly large (1.25 inch) triangular shape, as used for custom picks developed for Pat Buzzard
- Bop - My version of the Jazz III
- Bebop - My version of the Jazz XL
Material
A number of material options are available:
- Kirinite - A next-generation acrylic, in a range of colours/patterns
- Mirror Acrylic - Mirror-faces, with the option of a centre/core of another material
- Clear Acrylic - Simple and very classy-looking
- Patterned Acrylic - A variety of patterns and colours
- Wood-faced Acrylic - Acrylic core with wood veneer faces
- Multi-ply Wood And Acrylic - Clear Acrylic with wood veneer within
- Bone - Very hard-wearing with a bright tone
Grip Pattern
Although the Kirinite/Acrylic material used for these picks has a gloss finish, it’s actually quite easy to grip so doesn’t particularly need anything added to aid grip. However, there are a few options to add something to give extra grip:
- None - The pick surface is left ‘as is’ and polished to show off the material pattern rather than adding a grip pattern.
- Unfinished - The grip area of the pick surface is left unpolished, providing a rougher surface.
- Small holes - A number of small holes drilled through the pick to aid grip.
- Large hole - A single hole cut into the pick to aid grip.
- Hybrid/custom - Different combinations of large and small holes
- Through grip - The grip area of the pick is largely removed allowing for contact between finger and thumb
