by Alex Rodea June 12, 2024
Guitar pick grip is one of the most sought after characteristics that guitarists look for in a plectrum.
How do we define grip?
It’s a firm & tenacious hold providing control and mastery.
It’s what helps to keep the pick from slipping or rotating out of position while playing.
So a guitar pick with grip will tend to provide more picking control
and if you’re looking to attain speed mastery or accuracy for example,
then this plays a critical role.
It’s the difference between keeping the pick firmly planted in your progression & having to stop to pick it back up off the floor!
In this article we’ll cover some essentials related to grip to better understand its function.
We’ll also cover the gripping characteristics of our own picks,
namely our pick collections as a whole and how they all measure up to each other.
As previously mentioned, grip is the determining factor that helps to keep pick under your control,
keeps it from slipping away, & helps to keep you from dropping it altogether.
With grip being one of the main things guitarists are looking for in a pick,
There are many variations which we’ll go into more depth.
These include things like textured grips, engravings, grip holes,
and even some aftermarket options you can add to your favorite plectrum.
Well why do guitarists seek this out in their picks?
With an ample amount of grip available, you start to see some of these benefits:
Who doesn’t want that?
Despite all of the seemingly positive aspects of grip, there are a couple things to note on the downside.
Using very aggressive grips such as sandpaper or other rough options,
Can leave your fingers feeling raw if used for extended periods of time.
This could take some time to get used to, somewhat like how we all build calluses on our fretting hand.
There’s also the possibility of losing some of your ability to make micro-adjustments to your picking angle
or shifting your pick into different positions such as when tapping or performing pinch harmonics.
This might not affect everyone & depends on each individual’s playing style but something to keep in mind.
Below are some of the options we’ve encountered when it comes to pick grips.
Some of them are built into the pick during manufacturing, others can be applied as a DIY,
and others can be applied as enhancements to your favorite plectrum.
If you have a guitar pick that’s lacking in grip, there’s also a few things you can do to modify your pick & level it up.
Any other ways to gain more control in your playing, help relax your hands, or increase the accuracy in your playing? Yes!
Consider some other factors when choosing a guitar pick such as surface area.
Smaller jazzier picks have less to grab onto and are easier to slip out of your hand.
Maybe think about a bigger or wider pick such as the Bellona or Secutor that we carry.
Both of these picks take this factor into account.
If you’re a newer player or just need a refresher after some time away from your guitar.
Take a look at our article on how to hold a guitar pick.
It’s back to the basics with this one but maybe you’ll find some hidden insight or reinforce what you already knew about holding a pick.
Last but not least is the pick thickness.
Thicker picks also help to relax your hand further & make the pick easier to grasp.
You don’t have to clamp down so hard & it feels like you’re holding something much more substantial.
We have a whole article on thin versus thick picks here if you want to deep dive.
For all of the Iron Age fans who want to know about our very own handcrafted picks,
here’s the breakdown of our pick collections ranked in terms of grip.
Here’s our current list of pick collections, each one including several picks which are all finished in the same way.
Next to them will be the finishing characteristics that are applied which could affect grip.
Other individual picks from our top 10 highest rated list:
Comment below if you want to find out more about a certain pick!
It’s up to you to determine what level of grip is best suited for your playing.
Are you seeking something more comfortable? Or are you looking for maximum performance?
Other factors will include your style of playing, how long you practice, or environmental factors like playing live or in the studio.
If that isn’t enough options to look into,
see our ultimate guide on all of the characteristics of choosing a guitar pick.
Last but not least, just because your picks aren’t up to par with the grippines you desire or need,
You can always modify them.
There’s guitar pick grip you can purchase or make your own modifications using things like cork,
sandpaper, rubber, or just a plain old knife engraving - Just be extra careful!
(You’ll need those fingertips to play guitar)
Anyways, thanks so much for reading our article.
Do you have a favorite type of grip? Found the pick with the right amount for you?
Share your experience & let us know below!
-The Iron Age Team
by Alex Rodea March 20, 2025
Engraved guitar picks add both style and function, offering extra grip and a personal touch with custom initials, logos, or messages. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or a pick that stands out, check out our top choices and grab your first engraving for free with code...
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Est 2015.
Alex Rodea
Author
Founder of Iron Age, my guitar journey began in 2006, fueling a passion for crafting premium guitar accessories that embody timeless style & innovative expression. Through my Stay Tuned Guitar site I also share tips & info for new guitarists, offering everything from beginner tutorials to DIY tips & general music knowledge.