James Hetfield
Signature Pick
DUNLOP Hetfield White Fang
James Hetfield's signature pick, designed for his legendary downpicking technique and aggressive rhythm style.
Why This Pick?
The White Fang was designed specifically for Hetfield's playing style. The 1.14mm thickness provides enough stiffness for his machine-gun downpicking, while the Ultem/PEI material delivers the bright, articulate attack that cuts through Metallica's wall of sound. The Flow shape offers a comfortable grip and smooth release for those relentless rhythm patterns.
About James Hetfield
James Hetfield is the co-founder, rhythm guitarist, and lead vocalist of Metallica, one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. Known for his precise, aggressive downpicking technique, Hetfield helped define the sound of thrash metal in the 1980s.
His rhythm playing is legendary for its tightness and power. Songs like "Master of Puppets," "Battery," and "Blackened" showcase his ability to maintain relentless downstrokes at high speeds—a technique that has influenced countless metal guitarists.
Hetfield's gear choices reflect his playing style: thick picks for control, active pickups for clarity, and heavy strings for that signature crunch. The White Fang pick is his current signature model, refined over years of touring and recording to match his exact specifications.