Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$12.66
Guitar Center
5.0 (13)
$8.99
Amazon
4.8 (590)
$8.99 New
$7.37 Used (Like New)

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings (8.5-40)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your guitar's full potential with the Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings (8.5-40). Crafted for musicians who demand a blend of precision and playability, these strings hit the sweet spot between Super Slinky and Extra Slinky, offering an alluring combination of light tension and quick response. Ideal for guitarists looking to explore dynamic solos and intricate riffs, these strings ensure every note rings with clarity and warmth.

Each string is meticulously constructed from nickel-plated steel wrapped around a tin-plated hex core, delivering the iconic bright and balanced tone that has made the Slinky line a staple among guitarists worldwide. The unique gauge combination (.0085–.040) provides an even tension across all six strings, making them perfect for those who need a fast and nimble feel without sacrificing durability.

Whether you're on stage or in the studio, Ernie Ball's Mighty Slinky strings are engineered to reduce slippage and breakage, thanks to the plain strings' patented winding of bronze wire tightly wrapped around the lock twist of the ball end. This ensures reliable performance gig after gig.

Elevate your sound with the strings trusted by legends and discover why Ernie Ball continues to be synonymous with innovation and quality in the world of music.

Key Features:

  • Type: Electric, 6-string
  • Gauge: .0085–.040
  • Nickel-plated steel wrap
  • Tin-plated hex steel core
  • Patented winding for reduced slippage and breakage

Product specs

Guitar Type Electric Guitar
Number of Strings 6
Coated No
Gauges .0085, .011, .015p, .022w, .030, .040
Core Material Tin-plated Hex Steel
Winding Material Nickel Plated Steel
Winding Type Round Wound

FAQs

What is the gauge range of Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings?

The Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings have a gauge range of .0085 to .040, providing a light and flexible feel ideal for easy bending and fast playing.

Are Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings suitable for beginners?

Yes, the lighter gauge of the Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings makes them easier to play, which can be beneficial for beginners who are developing finger strength and dexterity.

What materials are used in Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings?

Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings are crafted with a tin-plated hex steel core and nickel-plated steel winding, offering a bright tone and excellent durability.

Are Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings coated?

No, Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings are not coated, which contributes to their natural feel and traditional tone.

What type of winding do Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings have?

Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Strings feature a round wound construction, which provides a balanced tone with both brightness and warmth.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball: New Slinkys 2020! (Skinny Top Beefy Bottom, Mondo, Turbo, & Mighty)

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball: New Slinkys 2020! (Skinny Top Beefy Bottom, Mondo, Turbo, & Mighty) by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball: New Slinkys 2020! (Skinny Top Beefy Bottom, Mondo, Turbo, & Mighty)

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for her’s sound experiment by Matthew Garcia

her’s sound experiment

Matthew Garcia

Matthew Garcia

Video thumbnail for New Strings for 2020 - Ernie Ball - Mondo - Mighty - Skinny Top Beefy Bottom & Turbo Slinkys by James Frankland

New Strings for 2020 - Ernie Ball - Mondo - Mighty - Skinny Top Beefy Bottom & Turbo Slinkys

James Frankland

James Frankland

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent tuning stability and quick stabilization after installation

  • Offers a unique gauge (8.5-40) that suits varied musical styles

  • Bright, clear tone suitable for diverse genres, including metalcore and screamo

  • Easy to install and labeled for quick string changes

  • Robust packaging ensures strings are well-preserved

  • Allows for effortless bending and intricate techniques like legato and tapping

  • Great control and feel, reducing fret-hand tension

  • Strong and durable, even with lighter gauge

  • Maintains tone and stability during aggressive playing styles

  • Wide variety of gauge options for personalized setups

CONS

  • Requires setup adjustments when switching from thicker strings

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings (8.5-40).

Setup and maintenance

  • Switching to Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky 8.5-40 strings can help reduce string tension and allow for lower action on a PRS CU24 with a Floyd Rose trem.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from Regular to Primo or Turbo gauge strings report noticeable differences in string tension and feel, particularly on 25.5" scale guitars.

    Source
  • One user attempted to switch their Stratocaster from gauge 10s to 9s, resulting in the bridge sticking to the body and causing unwanted vibration on the low E and A strings.

    Source
  • A user noted that lighter strings might go slightly sharp briefly when played hard, which can lead to tuning instability during intense play sessions.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players recommend removing the middle spring on floating trems to reduce tension, making bending easier without affecting tuning stability for those with a lighter touch.

    Source
  • Owners report that Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky strings feel exceptionally comfortable, allowing for extended play sessions without finger fatigue, improving overall playing performance.

    Source
  • The 8.5 gauge Mighty Slinky strings are favored by Telecaster players who find 8.0 gauge too floppy, providing a balance between playability and tension.

    Source
  • Players who switch from Ernie Ball Slinky to Rotosound Roto Pink 9s report a noticeable increase in "spank" or brightness in tone.

    Source
  • Switching from Ernie Ball to Elixir strings was reported due to Elixir's superior corrosion resistance, especially beneficial for players with sweaty hands.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 8.5-40 gauge is noted for being perfect on PRS and Fender for those who find 9-42 on Gibson scale too tight yet prefer lighter strings.

    Source
  • Some users switch from D'Addario to Ernie Ball due to the latter's extensive variety of string sets, though concerns about tone longevity persist.

    Source
  • A guitarist found Ernie Ball strings aged more gracefully than other brands, maintaining about 80% of their original tone even after seven years on a Stratocaster.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users highlight the benefit of using wound G strings for better intonation, especially in downtuned setups, suggesting it's preferred for improved tone.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The naming and packaging of Ernie Ball strings can be confusing, leading some users to accidentally purchase incorrect gauges due to similar color schemes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Players using Power Slinky strings appreciate their stability across multiple tunings, from E Standard to C Standard, for maintaining tension.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul Gilbert uses Ernie Ball Mighty Slinky Guitar Strings (8.5-40)

Paul Gilbert

Guitarist

Racer X

...
Verified via Instagram

This is his current go to strings for 1/2 step down tuning.

Genre Usage

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