Last Updated on February 18, 2024 by Justin
James Hetfield’s White Fang Custom Flow guitar picks are a collaboration between the Metallica frontman and Dunlop. Designed to meet the demands of Hetfield’s aggressive playing style, these guitar picks have become a go-to choice for many guitarists, especially those in the metal genre.
When I first got my hands on James Hetfield’s White Fang Custom Flow Picks, I was skeptical. I’ve been a long-time user of Tortex and Jazz III picks, and switching to something new felt like a gamble. But let me tell you, the moment I strummed my first chord, I knew these guitar picks were different—in a good way. In this review, I’ll take you through everything you need to know as well as my honest opinion.
Contents
Design and Build
The guitar picks feature the Flow profile, which offers expert maneuverability. They are crafted with blended beveled edges, made from Ultex that provide a snappy attack, ensuring that each note and chord stands out, even through high levels of distortion. These guitar picks also come with a custom grip pattern, which is particularly useful when you’re sweating from heavy riffing. The picks are available in 1.14mm, 1.0mm and I think 0.73mm thickness. However, my preferred gauge is the 1.14mm as that is a gauge I am very familiar with.
The Feel and Grip
The first thing I noticed was the custom grip. I’ve had issues with guitar picks slipping, especially during fast-paced riffs or when my hands get sweaty. But with these White Fang guitar picks, my fingers stayed locked in place. The grip is designed in such a way that even when I’m sweating from heavy riffing, the pick doesn’t budge. It’s like it’s glued to my fingers, but without feeling restrictive.
The Sound and Playability
The blended beveled edges and the Ultex material on these picks offer a snappy attack that I’ve never experienced before. Each note and chord rings out with bright articulation, cutting through even the heaviest distortion. I’ve found that fast stuff is easier to play, and I feel like I can go faster than ever before. It’s like the pick is an extension of my hand, allowing me to articulate each note with precision. Whilst this is a distinct feature of Ultex guitar picks in general, the White Fangs seem to do it better and articulate and sound better too.
Product Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Jim Dunlop |
| Model | Hetfield’s White Fang |
| Thickness | 1.14mm, 1.0mm |
| Material | Ultex |
| Edge | Flow |
| Grip | Custom Flow |
| Quantity | Set of 6 |
| Colors Available | White |
Thickness and Durability
I tried both the 1mm and 1.14mm sizes, and I must say, I prefer the 1.14mm. It offers the perfect balance between mass and articulation, making it versatile for both rhythm and lead playing. The picks are sturdy and show no signs of wear and tear, even after hours of jamming.
The Aesthetics
The white color is awesome and I think these White Fang picks are some of the best-looking out there. Considering the epic Metallica merch out there over the years, that is not really surprising.
The Game-Changing Features
What sets these picks apart are their meticulously crafted features. The blended beveled edges offer a snappy attack, making each note and chord ring out clearly, even through heavy distortion. The custom grip pattern ensures that the pick stays put, even during sweaty, intense jam sessions. This grip has been a lifesaver for me, especially when I’m riffing away at high speeds.
Versatility and Playability
These guitar picks are not genre-specific; they’re versatile. Whether I’m playing blues, rock, or metal, the 1.14mm thickness offers the right balance of mass and articulation. The picks are sturdy and durable, showing no signs of wear even after hours of playing. This durability is a huge plus, as I don’t have to worry about frequent replacements.
Final Thoughts
I A/B’d these guitar picks with the original Jazz III guitar picks and the standard Tortex picks, and within a minute, I realized that the White Fangs would be my new go-to picks. If you’re a metal player or into any fast picking, I can’t recommend these picks enough. They’re not just a tool; they’re an upgrade to your playing experience.
So, if you’re still on the fence about trying out these guitar picks, take it from me: give them a go. You won’t regret it.
Hey, fellow guitar mate! I’m Justin, I have been a professional guitarist since 2012. I have traveled the world playing on different stages alongside some of the best indie bands, at some of the biggest music festivals in the world. As a result, I’ve played lots of different guitar gear. Instead of keeping that knowledge to myself, I have set up this site to share my honest reviews of various guitar gear. But most notably, my love for guitar picks.