Are used strings useful to anyone?

[Samatza]

I keep them in the case as spares, eventually they move to recycling.

 

[ahbradot]

I keep them just in case I'm poor one day.

 

[fhm555]

When I install new strings, I usually keep the set that comes off. Unless that bass has been in my possession for long enough that I've changed strings multiple times - in that case I compare the set to the one that is already in the box and keep the one that's in better shape.
If a single string breaks and I need a solution on the quick, I prefer to install a broken in string to a fresh one.
I'd rather have one sounding a bit dull compared to the rest than have a zingy fresh one.

Me too.

 

[Smooth_bass88]

What do most of you do with your old/used (some barely) Bass strings? For some reason I feel (sorta) bad throwing them out, but they're just taking up space, and I know I'm never gonna use them again so ... BTW, After many years of trying different strings, I've come to the conclusion that Dunlop nickels and Fender nickel mediums are (for me) the best strings across-the-board ... in that order.View attachment 4701070

I recycle mine. It's very bad for the environment to toss them in the trash. Some music stores will take them and recycle them through the manufacturer. Oh and also, I think it's totally ridiculous to sell used bass strings on TB. Just my opinion.

 

[HardNHeavy]

When I change strings the set that comes off becomes the backup strings in case one would break and then the previous backup set are then discarded. I also keep a new set of strings on hand as well. So 3 of my basses use LaBella 760N B strings and 2 use SS Flat wounds, so in the drawer I have 3 new sets and 5 used sets. Overkill I know, but that just me lol
Duke

^^^This

 

[Thumb n Fingers]

Join the D'Addario Players Circle (it's free). There's a program there for you to send in your used strings to a recycling place (they pay the freight and you need to have at least 2 lbs of strings to send in). In turn, D'Addario gives you points to use for purchases on their website.

 

[E2942]

A really brutal garrote, with enough force

 

[Killing Floor]

Susan makes decorative wreathes out of used strings. I use them as plumbing snakes. The Kentucky Headhunters used them to wire-up the exhaust / muffler after a late-nite gig.

Riis

Slaw burger, fries and a bottle of Ski, bring it on out to my baby and me!!!!!!

 

[Benj-jammin]

What do most of you do with your old/used (some barely) Bass strings? For some reason I feel (sorta) bad throwing them out, but they're just taking up space, and I know I'm never gonna use them again so ... BTW, After many years of trying different strings, I've come to the conclusion that Dunlop nickels and Fender nickel mediums are (for me) the best strings across-the-board ... in that order.View attachment 4701070

I agree with you mjb with the Dunlops. I really like the medium bright nickels...great strings

 

[Koog]

I cut the ball-ends off and put them on bracelets/necklaces.

I do the same and give the ball ends to my sister who makes bracelets and necklaces with them. Kinda unique and cool.

 

[ZedLepp]

I've used an old set as a set of nut files.
They are also useful when setting up a used bass with no strings. I like to buy beaters and fix them up.
That way I am only installing the new strings once, especially if the trust rod adjustment is at the heel of the neck instead of the headstock.

 

[Deleted member 365158]

I use about 10” of an E string to clear my pipe and bong stem from clogs.

 

[pbass2]

When I install new strings, I usually keep the set that comes off. Unless that bass has been in my possession for long enough that I've changed strings multiple times - in that case I compare the set to the one that is already in the box and keep the one that's in better shape.
If a single string breaks and I need a solution on the quick, I prefer to install a broken in string to a fresh one.
I'd rather have one sounding a bit dull compared to the rest than have a zingy fresh one.

Same here. I hardly ever change strings preferring them well-broken in, both flats and rounds. So when I do change them I always keep the old set. I have encountered bad strings only a couple times in new sets, but it does happen.

 

[Hot Rats]

Susan makes decorative wreathes out of used strings. I use them as plumbing snakes. The Kentucky Headhunters used them to wire-up the exhaust / muffler after a late-nite gig.

Riis

They are perfect for the bathroom sinks. Been using them that way for years and years.

 

[Thumpin6string]

I use my old strings on basses I pickup to flip. It makes them playable and saves me a few bucks for new ones. The new owner can change them if they want, or not. Being that they are off a 6 string, I can use them for 4 strings and 5 strings too.

 

[mambo4]

I've been cycling through the same 5 sets (2 DRs, 2 TIs and 1 Labella) of strings for over a decade.
Do they sound "like new"? no. Does it make an appreciable difference in a real gig? also no.

 

[iiipopes]

When I change strings, I keep the old ones until the next string change. If something breaks or goes awry, using an old string will not be as noticeable if I have to change one. It may sound dull, but it won't stick out of the mix with new string zing, and will get me through the end of the gig after which I can determine what needs to do next: keep it on, change the entire set, etc.

 

[MegaSwing]

I’m usually very unceremonious with my used strings. Unless they are nearly new, out they go, especially if they aren’t my usual gauge. However, there are some really worthy ideas here for repurposing them that I may consider. Good thread.

 

[Steve88]

I change strings generally once a year whether I need to or not I keep the old set as a backup. So I have one backup set cut and ready for each bass type (Fender 4 string style, Lakland 5 string, etc.). After that they go into my junk box in the workshop to be resued as I come up with ideas.

I used the ball end of a couple old B strings as antennas on a grasshopper toy I made for my kids. I used some old stainless strings to hang decorations outside in the garden. I've used them for unclogging pipes like some have posted. Never know when inspration will strike

 

[Cave Puppy]

Susan makes decorative wreathes out of used strings. I use them as plumbing snakes. The Kentucky Headhunters used them to wire-up the exhaust / muffler after a late-nite gig.

Riis

Makes me like those guys even more now!