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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/409240
BoneHeadBanjo - Posted - 06/28/2026: 19:09:29
Do any of you alter the thumb pick to help you better hit the strings? I feel like the blade sometimes is too long and I hit the head when playing. Especially when I go to strike the 5th string. I was wondering if any of you trim it down some to avoid this?
sunburst - Posted - 06/28/2026: 20:15:04
If a thumb pick is too long I'll trim it, but I don't find it hard to find picks that are not too long, so I generally just get one that suits me.
I usually heat the pick to soften it and make it fit my thumb, with the blade striking the string squarely.
Edited by - sunburst on 06/28/2026 20:15:44
HSmith - Posted - 06/29/2026: 00:00:44
Like John Hamlett, I usually select thumb picks that seem the right size and shape straight out of the box. If any minor alteration is necessary, I do with sandpaper (for the blade length and profile) or very hot water (for the band around the thumb).
Dean T - Posted - 06/29/2026: 04:35:45
I use a Dunlop metal thumb pick. It’s short by nature, and I’ve polished the tip a bit to make it play smooth. They last forever, mine is 23 years old
Edited by - Dean T on 06/29/2026 04:36:23
BobbyE - Posted - 06/29/2026: 04:41:53
Sometimes issues like this lead you to discover a better pick as well. Better as to your preference if you haven't already considered this option. If you prefer to keep what you presently use by all means alter away.
Bobby
BoneHeadBanjo - Posted - 06/29/2026: 15:15:03
Thank you all for the responses, and I've never seen the Dunlop metal thumb pick so, will be looking that one up. Greatly appreciate you all!
RB-1 - Posted - 06/29/2026: 16:40:53
I cranked up the arm rest to the highest possible postion and that cured the problem forever.
It turned out not to be a thumb pick problem after all...
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