The Fender 351 guitar pick stands as an iconic accessory in the realm of electric guitars. Revered for its enduring popularity and widespread use, the 351 pick has left an indelible mark on guitar picks & guitar playing in general.
Guitar picks, though small in size, play a significant role in shaping the tone, attack, and overall sound produced by the instrument. As one of the most recognizable picks, the Fender 351 has garnered a reputation for its timeless design and innovation.
Originally introduced to complement the renowned Fender Stratocaster guitar, the 351 pick quickly gained traction beyond its intended audience, captivating guitarists across various genres and skill levels. Through its consistent presence as a standard accessory & its association with Fender's commitment to excellence, the 351 pick has become an emblem of reliability and has solidified its place as an enduring symbol in the world of guitar playing.
Related: Check out our ultimate guitar pick guide (materials, shapes, thicknesses)
A Brief History of The Fender 351 Guitar Pick
The Fender 351 guitar pick is one of the most iconic and widely used guitar picks in the history of electric guitars. Its history dates back to the mid-20th century when Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) was established as one of the leading manufacturers of electric guitars and guitar accessories.
The Fender 351 pick was first introduced in the 1950s, around the same time as the groundbreaking Fender Stratocaster guitar. This pick was designed specifically to complement the playing style and tonal characteristics of the Stratocaster, although it quickly gained popularity among players of various guitar brands and styles.
The pick's name, "351," refers to its standardized shape and size. It is a medium-sized, teardrop-shaped pick, approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length and 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) in width. The pick tapers to a rounded point, allowing for precise picking and strumming.
One of the defining features of the Fender 351 pick is its material composition. Initially, these picks were made from celluloid, a popular material for guitar picks due to its availability, flexibility, and ability to produce a warm, rounded tone. The celluloid picks came in various colors, including tortoiseshell, although it’s available in all sorts of colors & thicknesses now.
Over the years, Fender expanded its range of pick materials to cater to different player preferences. In addition to celluloid, they introduced picks made from nylon, which offered a brighter and crisper tone compared to celluloid. The nylon picks were available in various colors as well.
The popularity of the Fender 351 pick grew steadily throughout the 1960s and 1970s as Fender guitars gained widespread recognition among professional musicians and enthusiasts. The pick became synonymous with Fender's commitment to quality and reliability, as it was often included as a standard accessory with Fender guitars.
In the 1980s, Fender faced a shortage of celluloid, which prompted them to experiment with new materials. They introduced picks made from Delrin, a thermoplastic polymer known for its durability and enhanced grip. These Delrin picks provided a different feel and tone, attracting a new generation of guitarists.
In recent years, Fender has continued to produce the 351 pick in various materials, including celluloid, nylon, and Delrin. Additionally, they have introduced specialty versions of the pick with unique designs, such as artist signature picks and custom graphics, appealing to collectors and fans of specific musicians.
The Fender 351 pick has become an enduring symbol of Fender's legacy and influence in the world of electric guitars. Its distinctive shape, versatility, and availability in different materials have made it a popular choice among guitarists of all genres and skill levels.
Today, the Fender 351 pick remains a staple in the guitar-playing community, representing Fender's commitment to producing high-quality accessories that enhance the playing experience for musicians around the world.
Related: A Brief History Of The Dunlop JazzIII Pick
Fender Guitars & Pick Legacy
The Fender 351 guitar pick and the legendary Stratocaster have transformed the world of modern guitars with their awe-inspiring impact. Like magical companions, they have weaved their way into the hearts and hands of musicians, forever altering the landscape of music.
The Fender 351 pick, with its harmonious blend of form and material, unlocks a universe of possibilities. With each stroke, it paints vibrant sonic landscapes and ignites the flames of creativity. From the gentle caress that whispers delicate melodies to the fierce attack that unleashes thunderous riffs, the 351 pick embodies the artist's spirit and breathes life into the strings.
Meanwhile, the Stratocaster stands as a timeless monument to innovation and musical brilliance. Its contours fit seamlessly against the body, encouraging players to embrace their instrument as an extension of themselves. With its magical triad of pickups, it unveils a kaleidoscope of tones, empowering musicians to sculpt their sonic destiny and forge their own musical identity.
Together, the 351 pick and the Stratocaster have become catalysts for inspiration and self-expression. They have inspired countless virtuosos to push the boundaries of their craft, leaving audiences awestruck by their sonic mastery. From blues to rock, jazz to funk, their impact transcends genres, uniting musicians under a common language of passion and artistic exploration.
Beyond the realm of music, the Fender 351 pick and the Stratocaster have become cultural icons, symbols of rebellion and artistic freedom. They have graced the stages of stadiums and intimate venues alike, their presence electrifying the air with an intangible energy. They have ignited dreams in the hearts of aspiring guitarists, instilling within them the belief that their voice, too, can be heard through the power of these magical instruments.
In the tapestry of modern guitars, the Fender 351 pick and the Stratocaster are vibrant threads, interwoven with the fabric of creativity and inspiration. They have transcended their mere physical existence, becoming conduits of emotion and vessels of artistic expression. Together, they remind us that with a simple pick and a beautifully crafted instrument, we hold the power to change the world, one breathtaking note at a time.
Related: How to use guitar picks for beginners
Iron Age Guitar Picks Inspired By The 351
Classic 351-Style Delrin Picks
Interested in trying a 351 style pick in various thicknesses? Check out these assorted packs that feature light, medium, heavy, and jazz delrin picks.
Gladiator Collection - Provocator
This one is a rare handcrafted plectrum that’s based precisely on the classic 351 but with added performance. It features coarse grit texture on the faces & grip holes to keep it locked in place while playing & prevent pick rotation. It’s also a 3mm chunky pick that’s super comfortable to hold & best of all, is made out of durable ultem material.
Imperial Collection - Imperator
This is our flagship & highest rated pick that is designed around the dimensions of the 351 but with a sharper point. It offers an elegant option to precision picking that’s unlike any other.
Legio Ferrata Collection - Centurion
This guitar plectrum is crafted from bearing-grade engineering plastic which delivers the utmost durability. If you’re a heavy-handed player, we can’t recommend this one enough. It’s a modern pick based on a classic, with a sharper point, sleek aesthetics, and ready to take on any modern riffs you throw at it.
Related: Other guitar picks for beginners to consider
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Alex Rodea
Author
Alex is a former U.S. Marine avionics technician turned founder of Iron Age Guitar Accessories, a one-man shop building boutique picks, knobs, and kill-switches since 2015. He applies systems thinking, precision machining, and insights from thousands of shipped orders and customer reviews to write practical guides on tone, materials, and design for serious players.