Pick guard on Grand Concert?

[Jannie]

I'm wondering if I want to add a pickguard on my GC3, I notice Taylor puts them on the 912ce and 812ce Grand Concerts. I wouldn't if I wasn't intending to use a pick but I'm just not sure.

Does Taylor make pickguards that are clear but the same shape as their standard model ones? I know I can buy the material and cut it to shape but don't want to do that myself, I'd prefer having one made by Taylor in their shape and have it put on by someone more skilled.

I'm strumming rather loudly every day with a pick even though I'm not skilled using one yet, just to give the guitar some break in/ opening up time. With both my Koa Tenor ukes and my Esteve classical I really feel they made a noticable change after being played every day for 4- 6 months. I like the way my GC3 sounds and chose it over all the others I tried in my price range but I just have this feeling that it want's to get even better. Yes I read where Bob Taylor said the biggest change or opening up comes around the 8-10 year mark but I can try :-)

[Guitar Rodeo]

Jannie,

You can get all types of Taylor pick guards from either a dealer or directly from the Taylor web site. 
Your local luthier can install it if you would prefer not to.

[sthompson]

You can also use a removable, static cling, thin plastic pickguard.
I use them and they are excellent. 

https://www.taylorguitars.com/taylorware/Item.aspx?itemid=1121&categoryid=1009&page=1

Offered on the Taylor site and also at other places.
st

[Jannie]

Found them, thank you.

[gdeleo]

Taylor also offers a permanent clear one.  Jim at Guitar Rodeo installed one on my BTO before he shipped it to me.  You have to feel it because you can't just look at it and tell it is on.  Here is their link for the permanent one.  https://www.taylorguitars.com/taylorware/Item.aspx?itemid=1206&categoryid=1009&page=1

I did install one one my DN3 and it is really easy to do.  Just be patient and it goes on easy...

[John429]

Taylor also offers a permanent clear one.  Jim at Guitar Rodeo installed one on my BTO before he shipped it to me.  You have to feel it because you can't just look at it and tell it is on.  Here is their link for the permanent one.  https://www.taylorguitars.com/taylorware/Item.aspx?itemid=1206&categoryid=1009&page=1

I did install one one my DN3 and it is really easy to do.  Just be patient and it goes on easy...

Gary - that pick guard is nearly invisible and looks like an excellent choise for someone wanting the protection it offers but the appearance of no pick guard. Thanks for the photo!

[Jannie]

I actually can't decide, I really like the looks of a pick guard but I notice it's very popular not to have one now. There is an outrageously custom Martin Dread at my store with a dark Ad Spruce top over mahogany b/s with no pick guard and every time I see it I think it appears undressed.

[cjd-player]

You can make and install your own clear pick guard from clear sheet protectors from the stationary store.  They are not as thick as the Taylor guards and are virtually invisible.   People who play my guitar don't even realize it is on until I show it to them.



Here is the link from frets.com that has the installation instructions.
http://www.frets.com/FRETSPages/Luthier/Technique/Guitar/Pickguards/ClearGuard/clearguard1.html

I left the factory guard on my 312ce because it was already a year old when I bought it and I figured there would be a tan line if I removed it. 


I think the Grand Concerts look good either way.  It's just a matter of personal taste.  If you have a special or particularly pretty top wood, I would go with the clear guard.

[John429]

Carl - I noticed the attractive armrests you have on both of your guitars. I was wondering if they make a significant difference, comfort-wise for you? I injured my shoulder last winter and resting my arm against the lower bout is still a bit painful so that's why I am especially interested.

[dkoloff]

I have the clear on a Custom GA and was happy with the choice.....cleaner look but maintain the protection.

[michaelw]

hi Jannie
Taylor also offers a clear, removable/reusable static pickguard &
DSCustom offers a 'Contour' removable pickguard in black
http://dscustom.com/Home%20Page.htm

removable guards are made of thicker material than a permanent guard &
if the scratches that develop over time warrant replacing the pickguard,
it is, imho, much easier to do with the removable type, rather than
trying to polish out the scratches or replacing the permanent pickguard

also, if you decide on a non-clear removable pickguard, it can be installed prior
to playing & then removed when the guitar is in its case, so if later on if you think
you might possibly prefer the look without it, there should be no visible 'tan-line',
as there would more likely be one if a permanent non-clear pickguard was used

just a thought