Casein is a natural bio polymer made from skim milk that dates back to the 1800s. It sounds like real tortoiseshell and does not sound like a piece of plastic
Each pick is hand beveled to perfection. 8-Ball picks are hard wearing and keep their glassy playability without the need for constant maintenance
Casein, a natural biopolymer derived from skim milk, has been used since the 1800s. Its sound closely resembles that of genuine tortoiseshell, offering a warmth and resonance that plastic simply can’t replicate. The protein monomers in casein are cross-linked into polymers over weeks, sometimes months, by immersing the casein in a formalin bath. This process not only hardens the material but also reduces its tendency to absorb moisture. Despite this, thin pieces like picks can still warp when exposed to moisture or heat. Here at DrHerringbone, we’ve been dedicated to improving this unique material since 2022, driven by one simple reason: nothing sounds better.
The 8-Ball is inlaid with piece of forged carbon fiber that changes the pick's flexibility and stops the casein from warping under heat or humidity. It has all the wear characteristics and stability of space age plastics without having to compromise on tone.
Each pick is hand beveled to perfection. The ivoroid casein used in 8-Ball picks is hard wearing so 8-Ball Picks keep their glassy playability without the need for constant maintenance.