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Thread: Pick Rotation

  1. #1
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    Default Pick Rotation

    Something that I have noticed that doesn’t seem to be a big problem but it’s just odd. My pick tends to rotate forward as I’m playing. If I look down at my right hand after playing a tune the pick is almost always rotated facing forward some. Seems like the more familiar with a tune I am the more relaxed a am and this tends to make the issue worse. However, I must be used to this and subconsciously compensate because it doesn’t seem to cause a problem. Just something I noticed. Anyone else ever have this issue?

    I have only been playing since the start of Covid and I think I’m doing pretty well with the online courses. However, sometimes I think it would be nice to have a real life teacher in front of me to make sure my technique is correct.

    Thanks Doug

  2. #2
    harvester of clams Bill McCall's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    There’s often a fine line between too tight and too loose for pick grip.

    I agree that an in person teacher, and even good video, is a valuable resource.
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  3. #3
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    I'm a mando beginner, and mine seems to rotate backward - the point moves slightly toward the tailpiece. I wonder if sideways rotation (ie whether left or right edge of the pick hits the string first) affects this?

  4. #4
    Registered User maxamy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation


  5. #5

    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Interesting choice
    (Maybe it’s just me but that link got me to an ad for a snare drum.)

  6. #6
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Quote Originally Posted by maxamy View Post
    Yup, +1 for Gorilla Snot. Eventually the problem will get better but there are just times when your skin will be dry and you need a little help. Use a very small amount and keep it on your picking hand, don't get any on the other hand. It's available on Amazon as well.
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  7. #7
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Quote Originally Posted by NDO View Post
    Interesting choice
    (Maybe it’s just me but that link got me to an ad for a snare drum.)
    Assuming it's you. It went right to the Gorilla Snot on Sweetwater for me.
    "It's comparable to playing a cheese slicer."
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  8. #8
    Registered User Sue Rieter's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    I'm glad to hear it's not just me with the rotating picks
    I have recently relinquished my "death grip" on the pick, and now it is rotating. I'm going to go with relaxation is a good thing and it's a sign of progress
    I got a few different picks with grippier surfaces and it seems to help some.

  9. #9
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Interesting - was GC designed to stop drummers (accidentally) throwing their sticks at the rest of the band?
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  10. #10

    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Quote Originally Posted by maxr View Post
    Interesting - was GC designed to stop drummers (accidentally) throwing their sticks at the rest of the band?
    It was originally designed for drummers to improve their grip. It helps keep from accidentally losing the stick. It doesn't affect much when trying to throw a stick at a band member.

  11. #11

    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    I don't remember what they're called, but I use those little sticky dots that go on the pick. They work better for me than Gorilla Snot. I don't like my thumb being sticky.

    I can reposition these little dots as needed or move them to another pick. They come on a sheet with maybe 6 or 8 dots. I'm sure someone else has used them and might recall what they're called.

  12. #12
    Registered User Jill McAuley's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Quote Originally Posted by Rdeane View Post
    I don't remember what they're called, but I use those little sticky dots that go on the pick. They work better for me than Gorilla Snot. I don't like my thumb being sticky.

    I can reposition these little dots as needed or move them to another pick. They come on a sheet with maybe 6 or 8 dots. I'm sure someone else has used them and might recall what they're called.

    The Clayton picks website sells sheets of those dots:

    https://steveclayton.com/pictac.php
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  13. #13

    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    Quote Originally Posted by Jill McAuley View Post
    The Clayton picks website sells sheets of those dots:

    https://steveclayton.com/pictac.php
    That's not the one, but it looks like it will do the trick. My dots are clear plasltic. I think the ones you noted will be fine as well.

  14. #14
    Registered User Jcdraayer's Avatar
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    I find that my pick rotates forward a bit as well while playing and really getting into the groove. I find it actually results in greater accuracy and tone plus it feels more “natural” of a position for gripping. Feels like a win win win to me

  15. #15
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    Default Re: Pick Rotation

    These work really well.

    Jack

    https://www.monstergrips.com/

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