Can I switch to mandolin

[gfury]

I know from experience that it’s just as easy to suck at two instruments as it is to suck at one. ...

That's my philosophy

Long time guitar player. Three years on mando.

[EdHanrahan]

Way back when, probably before I joined 10+ years ago, there was a survey of Cafe members as to their prior experience. My best recollection of the summary, probably posted by Scott (MISTER Cafe to us!), is that about 60% or 70% here started on guitar, much smaller percentages started on assorted other instruments, and only about 10% started on mandolin as their first instrument. The moral of the story: You're in good (or at least popular!) company.

[JPS]

I know from experience that it’s just as easy to suck at two instruments as it is to suck at one. I assume the same can be said about three vs two instruments. So I say go for it.

Probably easier.

[kurth83]

I think the simple answer is yes, but it will still take the shed time to get good, previous picking and strumming skills will transfer over. Fretting with fingers at 45 degree angle is different. The chord and scale patterns are all different. I think the previous skills will help - they did for me - but it's still a new instrument.

My belief is mando is easier than guitar or uke, 4 string symmetrical layout instead of 6 with the pesky B string. Easier means faster progress, more satisfaction, but still a long-term project like any musical instrument.