Dunlop Hetfield Black Fang picks for mandolin

[billykatzz]

I'm aware that picks are a major point of interest for mandolin players, so I thought I'd throw my favorite into the ring: Dunlop's Hetfield Black Fang Ultex pick at 1.14mm. Firm, thick, nice attack, and it pulls a lot of the high-end dynamics out of my mandolin.

Another benefit is that they're relatively inexpensive, so if you try them and don't like 'em you haven't spent $30+ on it. But I think many mando players will like them.

Just my two cents.

[pops1]

As long as we have another pick thread has anyone tried the tusq picks???

[billykatzz]

Pops: I've got a handful of Tusq picks in their various colors/tones & I really like using them on my acoustic and electric guitars, but the Hetfield Black Fang just feels and sounds better on my mandolin.

[Nick Quig]

I like the Black Fang 1.14mm too! same as an Ultex Sharp only a nice black colour!

[pops1]

I was looking thru the Harris Teller catalog and couldn't find the Hetfield, that's when I noticed the tusq. I have been using a BC, but recently got a Wengen which I am liking. The BC is darker sounding and I wanted to brighten up my G string, the Wengen does that. I have an ultex from Clayton, but to get the sound I want I use the .80 and there is more drag from the pick. I have gotten used to the "no drag" from the BC and the Wengen also does that. Was wondering about the tusq, but think it would also wear more. I doubt any other instrument forum talks about picks more than here.

[Jim B]

Picks with the name of a heavy metal guitarist.

Small world...

[Zach Wilson]

I've never heard of it. So I looked it up.

Here's what the manufacturer says...

"From ass-kicking Metallica epics like "Motor Breath" to new thrashers like "Cyanide”, riff master James Hetfield’s venomous style has inspired many. Preferring picks with a bright tone and biting attack, Hetfield looked to Dunlop for the perfect tool for his fierce downward picking style. Based on a vintage tortoise-shell pick, the Black Fang is made of tough, sturdy Ultex material with a defined tone and sharp attack. Its pointed and contoured tip gives you ultimate speed and control—perfect for players looking to unleash their tone clearer, faster, and with unrivaled precision. "It's fast, bright, and strong because of its hard point and material,” says the man himself. “It gives you everything you need—just add venom." Gauges (MM): .73, .94, 1.14MM."

Remember, just add the venom

[DavidKOS]

The Dunlop Hetfield Black Fang Ultex pick looks a lot like the "sharp" ones I use. Great overall pick for guitar and mandolin.

[allenhopkins]

..."From ass-kicking Metallica epics like "Motor Breath" to new thrashers like "Cyanide”, riff master James Hetfield’s venomous style has inspired many...

Especially those with rattlesnake rattles inside their mandolins.

Surprisingly enough, my ambition has never been to sound "venomous." I'm still working on "adequate."