Jim Dunlop Lemmy Kilmister Icon Signature Bass Strings 50-105 - Gritty

In this review of the Jim Dunlop Lemmy Kilmister Icon Signature Bass Strings 50-105, the bottom line is simple: these strings are aimed at rock and metal bassists who want a snarling, mid-forward tone and a set built to Lemmy's personal preferences. The set's custom gauges and stainless steel construction deliver the punch, growl and pick attack associated with Motorhead's signature sound, and they work especially well with overdriven amps and distortion. Players who value a fast response and balanced tone across strings will find these strings compelling.

Key Features

• Handpicked gauges: Each gauge in the 50-70-85-105 set was selected by Lemmy Kilmister to match his aggressive, hard-charging playing style and feel.
• Stainless steel construction: Stainless steel delivers bold mids and a bright attack that helps notes cut through a mix when using picks or heavy overdrive.
• Built for speed: The low tension design and gauge selection give quick feel and fast playability for driving rock bass lines.
• Tonal balance string-to-string: Each string is designed to complement the others so the set sounds even across the neck from low to high.
• Long life and minimal break-in: Carefully chosen core-to-wrap ratios yield strings that settle quickly and maintain usable tone over time.

Who It's For

These strings are best for rock, punk and metal bassists who use a pick or aggressive finger attack and want a strong midrange presence that cuts through distorted guitars. Session players who need consistent feel and quick playability will appreciate the handpicked gauges and the responsive stainless steel tone.

Players seeking warm, round, vintage-style bass tone or those who prefer very light gauges for intricate jazz work should look elsewhere, as these strings emphasize punch, brightness and a growl rather than a mellow, woody sound.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful, mid-focused tone that cuts through mixes and complements distortion.
• Balanced feel across strings due to gauges selected for compatibility.
• Quick break-in and durable construction for prolonged playing before noticeable decay.

Cons

• Some users report mixed durability, with occasional breakage during winding or heavy use.
• The bright stainless tone may be too abrasive for players seeking a warm, vintage character.

Specifications

Product name	Jim Dunlop Lemmy Kilmister Icon Signature Bass Strings 50-105
Brand	Jim Dunlop
Material	Stainless steel
Gauges	50, 70, 85, 105
Design focus	Handpicked gauges for aggressive rock tone
Tonal character	Bold mids, punch and crunch

Our Verdict

For bassists chasing Lemmy-style grit and midrange presence, these Jim Dunlop signature strings are a focused and well-balanced choice that delivers speed, punch and a consistent feel across the set. They represent strong value for players who prioritize cutting through heavy mixes, though those after warmer vintage tones should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these strings good with distortion?
Yes. The stainless steel construction and mid-forward character make them particularly effective when used with overdriven or distorted tones.

What are the gauges in the set?
The set comes in custom gauges 50, 70, 85 and 105 chosen for balanced playability and tone.

Do they require a long break-in period?
No. The strings are designed for minimal break-in time and settle quickly into usable tone.