What size strings should I use?

Question

I play a lot of Metallica, but I like to tune down to drop D and drop C often. Should I get Ernie Ball 9-42's or 10-46's?

Answer 1

Definitely not 12's, play with 10-46's.

9's are pretty standard for metal (at standard tuning E)

Drop C is only down 1 full step on all strings, minus the C.

Go with 10's if you plan on playing Metal solos, because I guarantee your fingers will be aching for a while if you use 11's or 12's.

Answer 2

i use a LP and i use 10s. if you have a 24 fret i wud go with somthing different

Answer 3

If you're dropping that low you need .12-.52

Answer 4

     Drop D tuning usually means only your 6th string E is tuned down.  The rest of your strings stay at normal pitch.

     If you are actually tuning down a whole step...to D tuning, or two whole steps to C tuning, then the heavier guage,  the better.

     However, if all you're doing is tuning down your 6th string E, either of the set guages you mention will be fine.

     I prefer 9-42, but I do a lot of string bending and pedal steel type bends.