To thoroughly investigate the rock-breaking characteristics of conical pick under various attack angles in linear cutting, aiming to optimize conical pick parameters, enhance rock-breaking efficiency, and reduce energy consumption. Constructing matDEM numerical model for rock breaking by conical pick, a series of linear cutting numerical simulations were designed based on varying attack angles, to obtain key parameters such as conical pick force, crack propagation patterns and cutting efficiency. The results show that the average cutting force and the normal force of the conical pick increased with the increase of the attack angle of the conical pick. The main mode of rock failure changed from tensile failure to shear failure with the increase of the attack angle. The optimal attack angle for rock fragmentation efficiency was 40° at a cutting depth of 12 mm, and it was between 55°-60° at a cutting depth of 15 mm. Different attack angles lead to distinct failure modes between the conical pick and the rock, thus affecting the energy conversion and efficiency during the rock-breaking process. The conclusions of this study can provide a reference basis for the optimization of structural parameters in conical pick design, thereby enhancing the mining efficiency of cantilever roadheaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]