Never Had This Problem Before

[howlin]

I recently put some LaBella 760FL flatwounds on my P-bass. They are really nice sounding and the tension isn't too bad but I'm probably going to have to change them out due to the fact that my fingers seem to get "hung up" and drag on the strings, especially when I'm trying to make a quick transition from the low notes to the the high notes or visa versa. My hands perspire very little but that little bit of perspiration seems to be enough to cause a problem.

Its very weird and the only other time I ever had a similar problem like this was when I first strung up my bass with a set of D'Addario half-rounds. For the first week or 2 my fingers would seem to get caught in the windings just enough to make them stick for a second. Also very weird.

Before I try something else I may give some string lube product a try but I'm not to keen on doing that as the neck is oil finished and I'm not sure how that will work out. Anyone else ever have this problems with flats or any type of string for that matter? If so, any suggestions?

[Jay2U]

This so called sticky feel is normal for new flatwounds. As I don't like this as well, I always prepare a new set of flatwounds before I put them on the bass. I give them an extra polish with very fine Scotch Brite abrassive pads (the grey ones). After having done so, I clean them thoroughly with alcohol. This makes them very smooth, not being sticky anymore.

[lmfreeman9]

It's also more prevalent in areas with humidity.

[soulman969]

If it's happening with every string you try it sounds like the problem is more with your hands than the strings. Have you tried some powder to absorb the perspiration?