What is the specific shape of these picks?

These picks utilize the Fender 351 shape, which is a traditional, wide-shouldered teardrop design that is considered the industry standard for general-purpose guitar playing.

How many picks are included in this specific pack?

This pack contains exactly 12 individual plectrums, providing an ample supply for players who frequently lose or wear through their picks.

What material is used to manufacture these picks?

They are made from premium celluloid, a sturdy material known for its durability, tactile grip, and ability to produce a traditional guitar tone.

What is the benefit of the 'Heavy' gauge?

A heavy gauge pick offers less flex than light or medium alternatives, allowing for greater control, increased volume, and a thicker tonal response when striking the strings.

What does 'Blue Moto' refer to?

Blue Moto refers to the aesthetic finish of the pick, which features a blue pearloid or 'mother of pearl' patterned appearance for a premium look.

Are these picks suitable for acoustic or electric guitars?

These picks are versatile and can be used on both acoustic and electric guitars. The heavy gauge is particularly effective for driving acoustic strings or playing articulate electric lead lines.

How does celluloid compare to felt picks?

Celluloid is much harder and brighter than felt. While Fender standard felt picks are soft and designed for ukulele or bass, these celluloid picks provide the sharp attack required for standard guitar playing.

Can these picks be used for bass guitar?

Yes, many bassists prefer heavy celluloid picks like the 351 shape because they provide the stiffness necessary to move heavy bass strings with precision.

How durable is the celluloid material?

Fender describes these picks as sturdy and durable. While all celluloid will eventually wear down with aggressive use, the heavy gauge ensures they last longer than thinner versions.

Is the grip surface textured?

No, these picks have a smooth finish. However, the celluloid material itself is naturally grippy and becomes easier to hold as it warms up during a performance.

How do these compare to the Dunlop Tortex Jazz III XL?

The Fender 351 is larger and has a broader tip compared to the Jazz III XL. The celluloid material also provides a warmer, more traditional tone compared to the brighter, snappier Tortex material.

What is the typical price for a 12-pack?

The typical price range for this 12-pack is approximately GBP 5, making it an affordable professional-grade accessory.

Gear article

Fender Premium Celluloid 351 Shape Picks (Heavy Blue Moto)

The Fender Premium Celluloid 351 Shape Picks are heavy-gauge plectrums constructed from durable celluloid in a classic teardrop profile. Offered in a Blue Moto finish, these picks are designed to provide a firm grip and a traditional feel for guitarists seeking a dependable, heavy-duty striking surface.

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Background and Design

The 351 shape is arguably the most recognisable plectrum profile in the history of the guitar. Fender has utilised this 'teardrop' design for decades, offering a balance of surface area for grip and a refined tip for striking the strings. The 'Blue Moto' aesthetic provides a pearloid-style visual finish, distinguishing these premium picks from standard solid-colour alternatives.

Celluloid was one of the first materials used to replace natural tortoiseshell. It remains a staple in the industry because it mimics the organic feel and flex of traditional materials while offering improved durability for modern playing styles.

Material Properties and Grip

The use of sturdy celluloid ensures that the pick maintains its shape under the pressure of heavy playing. Fender describes these picks as being both durable and grippy, which is a critical factor for players who perform for extended periods. The 'Heavy' gauge specifically reduces the amount of flex, allowing for more direct energy transfer from the hand to the string.

Because celluloid responds to the heat of the fingers, it often becomes slightly more tactile during use, helping to prevent the pick from slipping or rotating during complex strumming patterns or lead lines.

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Tonal Character

The heavy gauge of these plectrums produces a bold, thick tone with a pronounced attack. Unlike thinner picks that can produce a 'chirping' or 'flapping' sound against the strings, these heavy celluloid picks offer a rounder, fuller frequency response. This makes them particularly suitable for genres requiring precision and volume, such as rock, blues, and jazz.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other options in the market, the Fender 351 Heavy sits as a traditional middle ground:

Against Dunlop Tortex: While Tortex (such as the Pitch Black Jazz III) offers a matte finish and stiffer synthetic feel, Fender Celluloid feels smoother and more organic.
Against Specialty Shapes: Compared to the Dunlop Stubby or Jazz III XL, the 351 shape provides a larger surface area, which many players find more comfortable for rhythm playing.
Against Multi-Packs: Fender's 12-pack offers a consistent gauge, whereas alternatives like the 'Fender All Shapes Celluloid Medley' provide a variety of thicknesses and shapes for experimentation.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the specific shape of these picks?: These picks utilize the Fender 351 shape, which is a traditional, wide-shouldered teardrop design that is considered the industry standard for general-purpose guitar playing.
How many picks are included in this specific pack?: This pack contains exactly 12 individual plectrums, providing an ample supply for players who frequently lose or wear through their picks.
What material is used to manufacture these picks?: They are made from premium celluloid, a sturdy material known for its durability, tactile grip, and ability to produce a traditional guitar tone.
What is the benefit of the 'Heavy' gauge?: A heavy gauge pick offers less flex than light or medium alternatives, allowing for greater control, increased volume, and a thicker tonal response when striking the strings.
What does 'Blue Moto' refer to?: Blue Moto refers to the aesthetic finish of the pick, which features a blue pearloid or 'mother of pearl' patterned appearance for a premium look.
Are these picks suitable for acoustic or electric guitars?: These picks are versatile and can be used on both acoustic and electric guitars. The heavy gauge is particularly effective for driving acoustic strings or playing articulate electric lead lines.
How does celluloid compare to felt picks?: Celluloid is much harder and brighter than felt. While Fender standard felt picks are soft and designed for ukulele or bass, these celluloid picks provide the sharp attack required for standard guitar playing.
Can these picks be used for bass guitar?: Yes, many bassists prefer heavy celluloid picks like the 351 shape because they provide the stiffness necessary to move heavy bass strings with precision.
How durable is the celluloid material?: Fender describes these picks as sturdy and durable. While all celluloid will eventually wear down with aggressive use, the heavy gauge ensures they last longer than thinner versions.
Is the grip surface textured?: No, these picks have a smooth finish. However, the celluloid material itself is naturally grippy and becomes easier to hold as it warms up during a performance.
How do these compare to the Dunlop Tortex Jazz III XL?: The Fender 351 is larger and has a broader tip compared to the Jazz III XL. The celluloid material also provides a warmer, more traditional tone compared to the brighter, snappier Tortex material.
What is the typical price for a 12-pack?: The typical price range for this 12-pack is approximately GBP 5, making it an affordable professional-grade accessory.