Hi Gang,
I play with my right index finger and notice that if I am able to practice the way I like to on a weekend, for example, the right side of the nail wears down, or, my nail has a tendency to split or break if I am able to let it grow out a bit. And when it starts to grow a bit, it seems to drive me crazy, I don't know how the guys that really let them grow, can even stand it.
Also, mid-May, I'll be off to my first Banjo Camp, and I'm a bit worried that an intensive weekend like that will really wear it down. No big deal, but I want to enjoy the weekend.
I mentioned this to my wonderful wife and she took it upon herself to look up reviews of different options and said "This Joel Hooks banjo thimble" gets good reviews,want me to order one?" "Sure, why not?" I thought we'd order a couple of models that are out there and hopefully find one that worked for me.
Well, the darn thing was ordered on a Friday and shows up at my door on Monday. He (Joel) must have been sitting at his computer waiting for my order to arrive.
I was expecting a pick similar in quality to the standard type of bluegrass finger picks: does the job, but nothing special. Even though this pick is brass, I didn't think I'd be that impressed.
Wrong. Really nice feel, polished, rounded edges, etc. Now in spite of my "soft" nails, I like playing with my fingers, figured I'd use this for my banjo weekend or when my nail chips or breaks.
Let me tell you, after about ten minutes of getting use to it, I'm ready to buy a spare in case anything ever happens to this one! No buzzing, as much control as I have with my regular nail, etc. I think this is going to be used whenever I play.
For the record, I don't know Joel, and had to look up his name before I even wrote this review, just thought I'd share a positive review of a product that might be of interest if you are thinking of getting one. Also, I have never used any type of clawhammer pick, so can't compare it, only that this one has easily solved my problem. (and thanks to my wife!)
Thanks
Rich
