Les Claypool Standup Handle Bass?

[incuboyj5]

Alright, I am currently fabricating some 1/4" flatstock and 1 1/2" Square stock in hopes of creating this "handle bass" I guess. I've done quite well with what I've got, but have yet to find an affordable string. It needs to be around 48-54" long, and must be fairly durable to keep up with the tension from the handle.


I've been told that Double Bass strings can accomodate my needs, and aircraft cable was also suggested, but Double Bass Strings are expensive, and aircraft cable is a bit too rough to play it with my fingers.
Any Suggestions?

[Turock]

Weedwhacker.

[fookgub]

Originally Posted by Turock

Weedwhacker.

Won't work with a magnetic pickup, will it?

How about some of that braided steel cable that is similar to what's used on bicycle brake cables, but thicker. I don't know what it's used for, but I know I've seen it.

[MikeyFingers]

^I think that would probably be too rough on the hands also.
I remember reading somewhere that Claypool uses a D string on his, I guess it's an upright string.
And by the way, it's called a Whamola.

[rekesbass]

I used 1\16" steel cable on mine because it's the only thing that would'nt break..It's not too rough on the fingers(no more than a roundwound string).I had a upright D string on it and snapped it within 2 mins.... even tried a bass guitar string and snapped that also..if the cable is too rough,you could always wear a glove like some "washtub" players do.