thegummy Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 I got my bass back from a setup but the nut action is a few thou higher than I'd like so I'm going to get nut files to adjust this and also to do my other bass's nut myself. The first bass has TI flats which are smaller gauge than standard strings. At the moment that isn't causing any problems in itself. Would it be okay to use the larger standard sized nut files to deepen the slots or would you advise getting the specific gauges for the flats? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bigwan Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 You might find it a challenge to get the size of nut file exactly correct. Perhaps a smaller file with a piece of emery paper wrapped around the cutting edge would get you closer than the bigger size? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
markdavid Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 [quote name='thegummy' timestamp='1509463495' post='3399119'] I got my bass back from a setup but the nut action is a few thou higher than I'd like so I'm going to get nut files to adjust this and also to do my other bass's nut myself. The first bass has TI flats which are smaller gauge than standard strings. At the moment that isn't causing any problems in itself. Would it be okay to use the larger standard sized nut files to deepen the slots or would you advise getting the specific gauges for the flats? [/quote] I usually use roundwounds of the desired gauge and use them like files Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gary mac Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 Proper nut files are the best option but it's quite an outlay unless they are going to get regular use. Prior to having the real deal, I used a few inches of an old string (of the required gauge) super glued to a piece of dowel. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thegummy Posted October 31, 2017 Author Share Posted October 31, 2017 Definitely going to buy the proper files - I wish I'd bit the bullet and bought them in the first place before putting it in for the setup and they'd have already paid for themselves and more! The question is just - should I just get the nut files for the gauge the bass already is (45-65-85-105) or should I also get some specific ones closer to the actual gauges of the TI flats (43-56-70-100)? Note: I say "also" as I'll be getting the standard ones to do my other bass with. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manton Customs Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 A standard set will be fine, you're talking about a few thousandths of an inch. You really don't want nut slots too tight, or they will pinch the string and cause serious tuning problems. Also try and keep the file dead straight with no wobbling or change of angle, otherwise you'll cut an even bigger slot than advertised. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thegummy Posted October 31, 2017 Author Share Posted October 31, 2017 [quote name='Manton Customs' timestamp='1509470023' post='3399224'] A standard set will be fine, you're talking about a few thousandths of an inch. You really don't want nut slots too tight, or they will pinch the string and cause serious tuning problems. Also try and keep the file dead straight with no wobbling or change of angle, otherwise you'll cut an even bigger slot than advertised. [/quote] Thanks for that. I see from your sig you're a luthier yourself which gives me confidence. So even the 15 thou difference on the A string will still be fine? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manton Customs Posted October 31, 2017 Share Posted October 31, 2017 Which nut files are you looking at? The Hosco set have a 65 and a 75. So your D would be the furthest out but still only .09, which won't cause any problems. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thegummy Posted October 31, 2017 Author Share Posted October 31, 2017 The only set I could find were Stewart McDonald Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manton Customs Posted November 1, 2017 Share Posted November 1, 2017 [quote name='thegummy' timestamp='1509493774' post='3399482'] The only set I could find were Stewart McDonald [/quote] https://tonetechluthiersupplies.co.uk/bass-nut-files-set-of-3.html?SID=18d4ba24e0d5c3cfcaae84d3e917e5d4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gary mac Posted November 1, 2017 Share Posted November 1, 2017 I recently bought a couple of sets from Rothko and Frost. Good price and great service. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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