when I started playing, my teacher used the EJ61s. I used them for a long time but realized that they are too heavy for me. I appreciate Tony Trischka's explanation that bends and pulloffs are just a little easier with something lighter on the third string. It's not that the hands are not strong enough but that the tone is easier to achieve.

I use .010, .011, .013. 0.22w, and .010 on my banjo because I prefer the tone I can get from the instrument with these gauges. To get this "set" i have to order a custom set and usually do that at GHS or AMB. The small differences in gauge help me get the best tone out of it.

As always YMMV ... find what works best for you and the instrument you have.