/ Register

Saddle filing..

Discussion in 'Hardware, Setup & Repair [BG]' started by bill_banwell, Dec 3, 2005.

  1. Dec 3, 2005 #1
    bill_banwell

    bill_banwell

    Oct 19, 2002
    England
    I think my saddles may need filing, my strings uncoil at the bridge when they 'snap' and when i take my strings off to clean the bass, pickups, bridge etc.. i can see little sharp burr's in between the saddle where the strings sit, so is the solution filing them? and if it is, how do i go about doing it? or do i just take it to a pro for a whole Setup?

    Any answers or suggestions would be much appreciated, thanks.

    :)
     
  2. Dec 3, 2005 #2
    Jazzin'

    Jazzin' ...Bluesin' and Funkin'

    Jul 12, 2004
    Montreal, Quebec, Canada
    If you want to file them, get a circular filer. About the diameter of a D or G bass string.
     
  3. Dec 4, 2005 #3
    JimmyM

    JimmyM Supporting Member

    Apr 11, 2005
    Apopka, FL
    Endorsing: Yamaha, Ampeg, Line 6, EMG
    I have never been able to file a saddle to where it quit breaking strings. I've done it myself and had it done professionally, and it never works out. I'm of the opinion that once you get burrs that break strings, the saddle is shot and you should just replace it.
     
  4. Dec 7, 2005 #4
    bill_banwell

    bill_banwell

    Oct 19, 2002
    England
    Right, but it might be worth filing it just to see if it improves.. reduces the string breakage?
     
  5. Dec 10, 2005 #5
    Son of Magni

    Son of Magni

    May 10, 2005
    NH
    Builder: ThorBass
    You don't want to use a file unless you want to change the depth or width of the slot. If you have a problem with strings breaking, or want to smooth the slot for any reason, I suggest you get some 600 grit sand paper and roll a piece of it around something like a round tooth pick. Then use it to buff off any burr or imperfection in the slot. Using a file will leave the edges too sharp and will change the shape of the slot.