I'm constantly breaking my picking nail, and the picks I have tried haven't worked for me (fit issues, tone, etc.) so I was thinking of getting an acrylic or similar nail. My daughter tells me that there are some gels that are harder than acrylics. So, if you have gone this route, a few questions:
1. What exactly did you use, and do you recommend it?
2. If I go to a nail salon, what do I tell them I want (since they won't be familiar with banjo)?
3. How did you shape it? Obviously not as claw-like as teh fashion folks do, but rounded or somewhat squared off end? How long?
Thanks.
The fake nails made from guitar pick material from Lucas Poole are great.
I second the fingernail picks from Lucas Poole. I only use them if my nail gives out. You can buy Gorrilla putty if you run out of what they supply. I haven’t tried any gel or anything like that.
I primarily use my natural nail, but I too use Lukas Poole's fingernail pick if my nail breaks.
As far as length and shape, I keep my nails about the length of my fingertips. Because I also play fingerstyle guitar, I keep my nails slightly slanted as well. I keep my fingerpick about the same length, but the shape is more rounded because I don't use it to play guitar.
Edited by - amsweet on 10/07/2026 19:26:04
I’m sticking with UV nail polish.
My daughter recommended it, and it’s been holding up for three weeks now on my index and middle fingers—and even though I put a tea bag under my index finger, you can barely see it.
I’d tried artificial nails before, but as they grow out, they form a ridge that you can get caught on—ouch.
Plus, they always fall off when it’s least convenient.
I use a primer; otherwise, I’m still experimenting. Next, I’m going to try this “Modelones Builder Nail Gel.” Right now, I have something similar from Neonail, which has been holding up for three weeks despite me playing my steel-string guitar for 3–4 hours a day.
Oh, and I use the clear version.
Since I can't decide on a playing style, I keep my nails short enough that I can pluck with my fingertips; I prefer that to using my fingernails.
Of course, you can also do it this way: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfJnju1MTT8
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