Setting the Standard Since 1981

Originally designed to replicate the feel of a tortoiseshell pick, Dunlop’s Tortex line has since outgrown its iconic tortoise mascot, revolutionizing the world of guitar picks for over 40 years. Before Tortex picks came along, guitar players could only choose from a limited selection of plectrums that often came in only three ambiguous sizes: light, medium, and heavy. Jim Dunlop sought to provide a solution by arming players with a complete range of thickness standardized to the 100th of a millimeter, and easily recognizable by Dunlop’s signature color-coded system. Excellent durability, perfect grip, and snappy tone have made Tortex the industry-standard pick for guitar players around the world. Whether you’re a pro or just beginning your musical journey, you can be sure that there’s a Tortex pick for you!

Signature Tortex composition and durability

Jim Dunlop strove to provide guitar players with the best pick possible, constantly refining his materials and processes until he arrived at Tortex’s signature composition. Tortex picks are designed with a grip-enhancing surface that naturally feels “just right” — there's enough texture to firmly stay in your fingers without ever feeling sticky. Constructed from a highly durable plastic called Delrin, Tortex is resistant to the constant wear and bending that guitar picks are subjected to; in other words, they have a long shelf life even with heavy playing. And of course, Tortex picks are world renowned for delivering a clear and articulate sound that’s ideal for electric, acoustic, and bass guitar playing across the entire spectrum of musical genres.