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11-03-2009, 09:18 PM
| | | | Cutting Your New Strings... Nightmare?
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Hey guys,
Just out of curiosity, is there an "easy" way to cut a fresh pair of bass strings? I've tried some standard wire cutters laying around the house, huge scissors used to open those thick plastic boxes, hedge trimmers, etc. And it's still been a nightmare every time. Is there some tool or gadget that you've noticed is very painless? Perhaps super thick wire cutters? None of the above methods I tried have worked out well at all, so any input is appreciated. Thanks! | 
11-03-2009, 09:24 PM
|  | Registered User | | Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Louisville, KY | | |
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11-03-2009, 09:26 PM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Ontario, Canada | | | I just use a regular pair of nippers. Takes a bit more pressure to cut through the E-string, but it's still quick and simple.
Maybe you just need a decent pair of nippers? | 
11-03-2009, 09:27 PM
|  | Stay Out Of Treble! | | Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin | | There are special string-winder / string cutting tools available. I use this one by Planet Waves. http://www.juststrings.com/pwv-bass-...hannelid=FROOG
Much easier than edge cutters.
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11-03-2009, 09:28 PM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Long Island, NY | | A quality pair of diagonal pliers seem to work best for me. 
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11-03-2009, 09:30 PM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Blimp City | | | I use a simple pair of side cutters that i bought for 3 bucks.
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11-03-2009, 09:31 PM
| | | Quote:
Originally Posted by shadowmac | I've seen that online. I guess it's worth it if it's that easy | 
11-03-2009, 09:31 PM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Ft. Worth Texas | | | Needle nose pliers have worked for me. You just might need a new tool my friend. | 
11-03-2009, 09:36 PM
|  | Discontinued® is my favorite brand! | | Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Central Ohio | | | I keep a miniature pair of end-cutters in one guitar case, and have mini side cutters in another. The mini-tools are easy to carry and always handy.
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11-04-2009, 05:56 AM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Canada eh | | | Decent set of needle nose pliers go through them like butter. Wire snips are even better. | 
11-04-2009, 06:14 AM
|  | Supporting Member | | Join Date: May 2007 Location: Nashville | | | basic pair of any true wire cutters work fine. | 
11-04-2009, 06:21 AM
|  | More gear than talent | | Join Date: May 2006 Location: bartlett illinois | | | ok just to make sure. You loosen the string first, rest your hand on the highest part of the neck and cut at the bridge? right
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11-04-2009, 06:48 AM
|  | Four on the floor | | Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: US Midwest | | | I nash them off with my teeth. Impresses the fans.
Ok that's not true.
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11-04-2009, 08:46 AM
| | | | I just bite through them!! No I use a pair of wire cutters, no problem at all, even with the .128 | 
11-04-2009, 10:05 AM
|  | On the TB leaderboard for low talent/gear ratios! | | Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: NJ | | Quote:
Originally Posted by shadowmac |
I have the same one. The winder part is handy by itself and it's nice having the cutter on the same tool.
For the low price of $8, you can eliminate all your string changing nightmares! 
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11-04-2009, 10:11 AM
| | | | Dykes.
Might be what others refer to as diagonal pliers or side cutters - I don't know, I honestly don't know anybody that doesn't call them dykes.
Little ones are fine, never had a problem with even a low B and little pair of dykes. | 
11-04-2009, 10:12 AM
| | Registered User | | Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: IL | | | I fold and unfold them repeatedly. Make an initial priming groove against a tuner post. Fold them left and right and they will break off clean in about 5 sec.
I don't know if I am explaining it right...
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11-04-2009, 10:14 AM
|  | Supporting Member | | Join Date: May 2007 Location: Nashville | | Quote:
Originally Posted by davec ok just to make sure. You loosen the string first, rest your hand on the highest part of the neck and cut at the bridge? right | Personally I never cut strings 'off' my basses. I thought you were asking about trimming excess off when putting new strings on.
I unwind and remove them and usually keep them around 'in case', or put them up for sale cheap here on TB. Some people love worn out strings.
. | 
11-04-2009, 10:27 AM
|  | Registered User | | Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Portsmouth VA USA | | I hold the strings in front of a picture of Chuck Norris and he cuts them with his stare.
Actually, I just use my Leatherman multi-tool, or a standard-issue pair of wire cutters. A good tool and a strong grip are all you really need.
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11-04-2009, 10:32 AM
| | | Quote:
Originally Posted by shadowmac | +1 more on this. I have had my Planet Waves winder / cutter for about 2 years. Works like a charm! | | Thread Tools | Search this Thread | | | |
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