Read All About The Most Popular Guitar Pick Shapes

Are you a guitar enthusiast unsure about which pick shape is best for your style? You’re not alone! Choosing the right guitar pick can significantly influence your playing experience. In this article, we take a deep dive into six popular guitar pick shapes: 346, 351, 355, 358, 385, and 651. By the end, you will understand how each shape can enhance your sound and improve your playing. Let’s explore the nuances of each pick shape to find out which one suits you best!

Table of Contents

• 1. Guitar Pick Shape 346
• 2. Guitar Pick Shape 351
• 3. Guitar Pick Shape 355
• 4. Guitar Pick Shape 358
• 5. Guitar Pick Shape 385
• 6. Guitar Pick Shape 651
• Conclusion

1. Guitar Pick Shape 346 

The 346 guitar pick is a stunning example of versatility. It features a triangle shape with a rounded tip and wider body, making it ideal for strumming and picking. Musicians often favor this shape for its grip and comfort, permitting extended play without fatigue. This pick is generally thicker. leading to a smoother sound and popular in the Bluegrass community.

Pictured is the Golden Gate Clown Barf Triangle.

Best For:

• Strumming acoustic guitars & mandolins
• Casual playing with friends
• Beginners looking for comfort

2. Guitar Pick Shape 351

The beloved 351 shape has seen a meteoric rise in popularity among guitarists for many decades, praised for its balance between control and precision. The symmetry in the design allows for both delicate single note strikes and energetic strumming sessions. In fact, this shape has eaten up a significant market share, adored for its all-purpose usability.

Pictured is the Ernie Ball Everlast Delrin.

Best For:

• Electric guitar players seeking versatility
• Picking styles like hybrid or flatpicking
• Overall well-rounded sound production

3. Guitar Pick Shape 355

If you’re looking for a pick that packs a punch, the 355 is your go-to. This obvious triangle shape aims at delivering brighter tones and quick dynamics. Perfect for rock solos or fast-paced riffs, this pick is designed to give you that vibrant attack that grips listeners. Also popular amoung bass players based on it's larger size.

Pictured is the Fender Shell Triangle.

Best For:

• Rock and pop genres
• Fast solos and aggressive strumming
• Players looking for sharp attack

4. Guitar Pick Shape 358

The 358 pick is the choice for those who fancy precision and speed. With an elongated tip and narrower width, it allows for remarkable agility in picking and is particularly favored by shredders. Jazz guitarists also enjoy this pick for string sensitivity and intricacy based on it's smaller size.

Pictured is the Dunlop Teardop Tortex.

Best For:

• Shredders and advanced players
• Genres that require fine control
• Preferable for rapid picking techniques

5. Guitar Pick Shape 385

Unique among picks, the 385 shape features a less aggressive design, often appealing to bluegrass players. It provides a thicker body with rounded tips designed for passing over the strings rather than quick striking. The added thickness allows for maximum durability, making it a go-to for fast and heavy strumming.

Pictured is the V-Picks Rounded Triangle.

Best For:

• Bluegrass genre
• Players who utilize aggressive techniques
• Long-lasting durability for heavy use

6. Guitar Pick Shape 651

Lastly, we have the 651 shape, which stands out due to its angular design that diverges from traditional rounded shapes. Famed for its sharp tip, this pick enables precise picking and is the preferred option for soloists as well as metal or jazz players. Overall, this pick contributes to a more articulated sound for serious and discering musicians.

Picture is the f-hole jazz metal small pointed.

Best For:

• Solo performances and intricate melodies
• Genres that require quick passages
• Advanced players who value precision

Conclusion

Choosing the right guitar pick can profoundly affect your musical journey—from strumming to intricate solos, the right shape complements your style and enhances your sound. Whether you’re leaning towards the versatility of the 351 or the precision of the 651, each pick shape has its unique set of benefits designed for specific playing techniques.

Now that you’re equipped with knowledge about the popular guitar pick shapes—346, 351, 355, 358, 385, and 651—don’t be afraid to experiment! Find the pick that resonates with you, and elevate your guitar playing to new heights.

At the f-hole we carry hundreds upon hundreds of guitar picks and understand it can be a little overwhelming. If you are unsure, our suggestion is to buy several different kinds of shapes and thicknesses. Give them all a fair shot and find your own personal holy grail guitar pick... it's out there!