TECHNIQUE CHECK...

Get your pick in prime position to make those licks easier

1. TRIGGER GRIP

Finding a comfortable grip is essential. For a ‘trigger’ grip, place the pick on the side of your index finger. Drop your thumb on top to hold it in place.

2. PAD GRIP

A variation on the trigger grip, here the pick is pinched between the pads of thumb and forefinger.

3. PAD-SIDE GRIP

Kind of halfway between pad and trigger, the pick is on an angle. Use whichever of these methods feels most comfortable and in control.

4. THREEFINGER OR MIDDLE FINGER

It’s fine to use thumb and two fingers (like

James Hetfield, shown here) or thumb and middle finger (like Eddie Van Halen).