To be a guitarist is to live in a paradox. We know that somewhere out there is the ‘Goldilocks gear’ that can improve our tone and finally nail the sound in our heads. On the other hand, we’ll swear that, when it comes down to it, ‘tone is really in the hands’
Can both of these things be true at the same time? Well, yes, they can – not least when it comes to your choice of pick.
Great players are distinguished by their attack and vibrato and attack is most definitely affected by what we use to apply force to the string, whether it’s your fingers, Brian May’s coin, or your go-to pick.
As such, for many players, the tonal upgrade that will offer you the best bang for your buck is simply switching up your pick.
(Image credit: Bog Street)
Bog Street Picks is built around this principle – arguing that “this low-tech tool is vital in connecting the player to the instrument and deserves as much attention as any of its high-tech counterparts.”
This company understands that these seemingly small enhancements can have a sizable impact on your playing – and has since specialized in developing ergonomic pick designs that help players reduce hand tension, creating a more responsive playing experience.
Bog Street offers over 20 different three-sided pick designs that range from aggressive grip solutions to more conventional form-factors. Some models feature a rubberized grip while others feature curved textured grips and a hole in the middle to create contact with the thumb and index finger for improved feel.
Axle Blade and Axe Cut models offer two gauges in one pick. The Axe Blade Light, for example, offers a 0.5mm standard flat tip and two 1.5mm chisel tips – handy when you need to quickly switch to a more resistant edge for articulate leads. Similarly the Axe Cut model is slightly larger and offers a medium-gauge pick with a 0.6mm flat tip and a chunky 2.0mm chisel in one pick.
(Image credit: Bog Street)
Meanwhile, if you’re not keen on the variation and you just want a rock-solid grip without the strain, then the Battle Axe cut offers the same thickness on all three points. These shred-worthy picks come in four different variations and two different materials.
Bog Street also says it prides itself in helping players overlooked by mainstream manufacturers – particularly those suffering from arthritis, Parkinson's, neuropathy, tendonitis, injuries, and other hand impairments.
Regardless of your experience level or playing style, these picks support the ability to relax the tension in your picking hand and are designed to deliver improved feel and control, allowing you to keep your focus on creative expression.
(Image credit: Bog Street)
So whether you’re starting to find your feet (or hands) as a player, or are a seasoned pro looking to hone your sound, if you’ve not considered your pick, well, you might be overlooking the very foundation of your tone – after all, it all starts with hitting the string.
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