Filing Nut For B*E*A*D Tuning

Robert Spencer · #1 12-31-2010, 12:24 PM

I have a low B string to install while going to B E A D tuning and am wondering what is a good tool for enlarging nut slots to accomodate the larger diameter strings. Thanks & take care. Bob

Ric5 · #2 12-31-2010, 12:31 PM

The proper tool is a nut file.

I use my dremmel tool.

Robert Spencer · #3 12-31-2010, 01:50 PM

Thanks Ric. Did you have any issues with buzzing or intonation etc? I`m aprehensive. Take care. Bob

unbridled · #4 12-31-2010, 01:53 PM

Make sure you check the bargain bin of tools at your local hardware store. I got a mixed set of needle and triangle files for $5 several years ago and that's all I use for nut work. I've found a dremel takes stuff off faster than I like to, even when on low speed.

Bardley · #5 12-31-2010, 01:56 PM

Use a nut file and be sure to use the proper gauge. Check them out at Stew Mac and read up on it. Plenty of info online. Go slow and be careful.

JLS · #6 12-31-2010, 02:37 PM

For just widening, or deepening slightly, nut slots, consider drillbits w/sandpaper wrapped around them. For fabricating new nuts, files.

Zooberwerx · #7 12-31-2010, 02:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JLS

For just widening, or deepening slightly, nut slots, consider drillbits w/sandpaper wrapped around them. For fabricating new nuts, files.

Minor embellishments: the Dremel micro-bits are perfect for the task at hand. I also prefer emery cloth over above paper as it wraps nicely without creasing. I finally broke down and bought a set of real nut files from Stew-Mac...now I can screw things up in half the time!

Riis

Robert Spencer · #8 01-01-2011, 09:54 PM

Bardley wrote: Use a nut file and be sure to use the proper gauge. Check them out at Stew Mac and read up on it. Plenty of info online. Go slow and be careful.
Thanks Bardley but the reason I asked was because my Stu Mac catalog shows a .105"
(#4554) as being the largest diameter nut file they carry.
This will not accomodate a .125" low B string used in B E A D tuning.
Looks like drill bits & emery cloth gets the nod. Take care. Bob

Slowgypsy · #9 01-02-2011, 07:05 AM

Just remember... if it seems like it's taking a long time... that's a good thing. When it comes to cutting/changing the slots in a nut, slow and steady always wins the race.

mech · #10 01-02-2011, 08:56 AM

I use a file for sharpening chain saws for the B string. No taper and measures right at .140" dia.

mech

basbengan · #11 01-07-2011, 04:08 AM

Why is it so important with a correct matching between the slot and the corresponding string?
What happens with the sound if the slot is slightly wider than the string?

Zooberwerx · #12 01-07-2011, 05:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by basbengan

Why is it so important with a correct matching between the slot and the corresponding string?
What happens with the sound if the slot is slightly wider than the string?

Nothing...provided the string has the proper break over the nut, the slot itself is shaped correctly, and the string is wound low on the tuner post.

Riis

Jazz Ad · #13 01-07-2011, 05:11 AM

If the slot is too wide, the string won't be properly stopped at the nut and you get vibrations at the headstock.

I use a cut steel string with a ring formed at each end for my fingers.
It's a bit of a hack job but it you do it cautionously it works fine.
I don't trust my dremmel skills for such a delicate job.

basbengan · #14 01-07-2011, 06:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jazz Ad

If the slot is too wide, the string won't be properly stopped at the nut and you get vibrations at the headstock.

So that's what the buzzing comes from I guess.

I recently changed tuning from BEADGCF.. to F#BEADGC.. and I did the slot filing wider than necessary so here I am, having buzz on both F# and B. But at least now I know what is causing it. Thanks for the info.

JLS · #15 01-07-2011, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jazz Ad

If the slot is too wide, the string won't be properly stopped at the nut and you get vibrations at the headstock.

I use a cut steel string with a ring formed at each end for my fingers.
It's a bit of a hack job but it you do it cautionously it works fine.
I don't trust my dremmel skills for such a delicate job.

RE: Dremel skills: No one should.

thatonedude02 · #16 01-07-2011, 11:22 AM

I just did this yesterday with an emory board and a set of these:

http://www.harborfreight.com/12-piec...e-set-468.html

Worked perfectly. It just so happened that one of the round files in the set was exactly the same diameter as the B string, which made that part easy.

Be sure to widen, not deepen, by the way.

Showdown · #17 01-08-2011, 06:14 PM

I would recommend checking to see if it needs it before doing any filing. I've strung 3 different 4 string basses BEAD and the strings fit in the nut slots just fine without any filing on all 3. It seems that a lot of people assume you will need to file, but that isn't always the case.

Robert Spencer · #18 01-10-2011, 11:01 PM

In the beginning I thought that this question might not be well answered but in fact it has been by a lot of later posts. Thanks guys. I know i`m in good hands here. Take care. Bob