pickguard on carbon fiber

[marshbog]

Hey all!

Here's a weird question... what do you think about putting a pickguard on a carbon fiber guitar? I'm eyeing one of the CA Cargos with raw finish, and just realized that it doesn't have a pickguard. I usually use the static-cling type, but does carbon fiber hold up to a pick better than poly finishes on wood? I don't beat up my guitars, but sometimes my fingernails leave light scratches on the finish. Should I not worry about a pickguard for carbon fiber?

Marsh

[tbeltrans]

It seems to me there was some discussion about pick guards over at the MacNichol forums that are devoted to carbon fiber instruments of all makes. That was some time ago, but those posts may still be in the archive. Anyway, I seem to recall that some people were using some kind of pick guard that was plastic that could be put on and taken off. Since I play strictly fingerstyle on my Cargo, I can't say if carbon fiber instruments would get scuffed up by a pick. I wouldn't think so, but maybe somebody who plays with a pick can chime in here. Maybe it depends on the finish (i.e. high gloss or raw vs Road Tuff)?

Tony

[runamuck]

Get a carbon fiber pickguard. You'll be much happier.

jm

[Opa John]

Originally Posted by runamuck

Get a carbon fiber pickguard. You'll be much happier.

jm

I was gonna suggest a spruce or cedar pickguard.

[Ted @ LA Guitar Sales]

Carbon guitars will not get damaged by a pick but they will show scratches. If you think that will bother you than you can install a clear pickguard like this one from Stewart Mac.