Plastic Finger Picks

[Rick Myrland]

Has anyone tried plastic picks for the index and middle finger? I’ve wondered about them because I tend to get irritating string buzz when pick blocking with the traditional metal picks. Obviously there’s going to be a tonal difference, but not as mellow and “fat” as the use of fingers alone.

I also see they have “open” metal finger picks that would let you pick with metal but block with the pad of your finger. No idea if that’s viable for steel.

Any experience with them? Thoughts?

[Bobby Hearn]

I know without trying them, too cumbersome and crappy tone.

[Bob Sykes]

I tried them but keep coming back to metal picks for pedal steel. That seems to be what most do according to this limited sampling.

https://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtop ... 09e2e81d15

[Jack Hanson]

I use plastic fingerpicks on acoustic instruments where maximum volume is desirable. On electrics, I use metal fingerpicks and sometimes bare fingers on lap steel.

[Donny Hinson]

Has anyone tried plastic picks for the index and middle finger? I’ve wondered about them because I tend to get irritating string buzz when pick blocking with the traditional metal picks. Obviously there’s going to be a tonal difference, but not as mellow and “fat” as the use of fingers alone.

Any experience with them? Thoughts?

Yes, cumbersome, dull tone, and a sometimes "scratchy" sound and feel.

Instead of finding a way around your problem, I'd suggest you practice more until you can pick block properly. Two hints I can offer are...pick and block with authority! A wimpy attack and sluggish return of the pick to block the string are the usual cause of buzzing. Also, save pick-blocking for the faster stuff, as the slower stuff lets you block better with your fingers or the palm of your hand. (Pick blocking just isn't as effective when you have to play play soft and gentle.)

Keep at it! You can do it.

[Jerry Overstreet]

I had some of those black Dunlop plastic finger picks a few years ago. They might still be around. I could never get them to feel comfortable on my fingers and they broke pretty easily. The blades can be formed some with the hot water method, but the rings were just too thick and bulky for me.

I can see situations where they would work just fine though.