Plectrum size? Hand size?

bluethird101

Does plectrum size relate to hand size? It seems logical to me that somebody with a hand much larger than mine would need a bigger plectrum and I would use. What do we think?

mac63000

I've been experimenting with a variety of picks recently of varying sizes and thicknesses and my overall thought is it mostly affects tone, rather than the usability of a given pick. Larger picks offer more surface to grip but how you hold it is probably more important for your overall playing. If you hold a larger pick closer to the part that plucks the string you'll have more control than holding it further back. A lighter grip will result in a different sound than a firmer grip... And so on.

I went from Jazz III with the matte finish (the ones with the turtle?) to the standard Wegen pick and loved the difference. Then I got some really thick Primetone picks and thought they were great for rhythm. I thought how could I play gypsy jazz with anything other than a large thick pick? The wegen was great for lead and the primetone for rhythm. Then I bought the big city Wegen picks and my world was turned upside down: Perfect for everything, love the smaller size and the different sound I can achieve. Great attack, easy grip, just perfect for my hands. Which aren't very large.

If anything a smaller hand might find a large and thick pick to be unwieldy, but try a few things out and see what you like the feel and sound of to get the right combo.

geese_com

Professionals of all different heights and body sizes (and presumably hand size) use the same size Dunlop pick (Delrin or Gator). I think it is more getting used to the pick and finding what works for you than the type of pick.

Jim Kaznosky

Mandolin picks with rounded edges have been working for me. I've been through the whole pick game and usually what I play with is either the Wegen M-Series pick or a Gator, rounded edge. I certainly indulge myself and try other picks. I loved the Blue Chip SR60 but gave up after I lost two. Generally, I always carry at least an M-series and a gator with me.

NylonDave

I've been experimenting with renewables.