Right hand four finger technique

[Banana_Bass]

I recently started practicing with 3 fingers on my right hand (after reading Pablomigraines post on fingerstyle metal) and I found that it really improves my speed.
But I wondered, is it possible to play with four fingers? Are there any special techniques?

 

[Nephilymbass]

I wouldn't really worry about it. 3 is one thing. I will use 3 fingers for some types of rhythms. I've tried but didn't really care for using 4. The fastest stuff I play I actually play mostly with two fingers. Then I add the third finger for triplets and to help with time signature changes. As far as pure speed though I'd recomend just practicing a lot and try not to pluck the strings hard. The more you dig in the slower you'll be.

 

[Doner Designs]

Another alternative that may work for you is rubber bass picks. They have a softer attack like your fingers but are a great way to pick up some speed and give the fingers a rest.

 

[xabicho]

Check Matt Garrison, he uses the thumb then index, middle and ring finger. Also I believe Adam Nitty, but bottom line it is just hours and hours of practice…Jaco just used two fingers

 

[SidMau]

its possible but one needs to consider pinky length - for people with shorter pinkies compared to the rest of their fingers (Im aware it is already shorter but if by a large amount) then they will definitely need to angle their hand/wrist awkwardly making it perhaps more inefficient that 3 or 2. If it works for you, go for it, but if you are going for maximum speed then make sure to not overcomplicate things and contort your hand irregularly.

 

[David Jayne]

Add your thumb to the mix. Not awkward or stressful and very effective.

 

[Jaco Taco]

I'm working on this myself, utilizing classical tremolo technique. Here's a great little video showing how crazy fast you can get using four fingers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7jjO5is-nE