Worn 12th fret

[Jeff Martinez]

I have recently noticed that my 12th fret is wearing down, causing a buzz at that fret only. It is only worn excessively under my C & G strings (5-er tuned high). I know it is due to a lot of bends and vibrato on those notes during my solo performances.

My question is: Should I sand the higher frets (13-24) down to match it, or should I consider replacing the single fret?

[202dy]

Originally Posted by Jeff Martinez

I have recently noticed that my 12th fret is wearing down, causing a buzz at that fret only. It is only worn excessively under my C & G strings (5-er tuned high). I know it is due to a lot of bends and vibrato on those notes during my solo performances.

My question is: Should I sand the higher frets (13-24) down to match it, or should I consider replacing the single fret?

It is difficult to advise without being able to see all of the fret wear. Posted pictures are usually inadequate. So, generally speaking, if the rest of the fret wear is minimal a partial refret is in order. It may be just F12 but may include one or two frets on either side of it. Grinding away F13-24 just shortens the life span of those frets.

[Jeff Martinez]

Originally Posted by 202dy

It is difficult to advise without being able to see all of the fret wear. Posted pictures are usually inadequate. So, generally speaking, if the rest of the fret wear is minimal a partial refret is in order. It may be just F12 but may include one or two frets on either side of it. Grinding away F13-24 just shortens the life span of those frets.

Cool. Thanks for the advice. I've used a straight-edge against the frets to verify problem. The 12th is visibly lower than the rest. I'll post pics when I get home tonight.

I'll search the forums for a thread on replacing frets. It's a Schecter Omen-5 with a rosewood fretboard, I wouldn't think there are any special considerations for this.