Backpacker Mandolin

[Jimmy Sample]

Hey, just joined this forum. Looking forward to reading some good info and learning about other mandolin players and styles.

I was given a Martin Backpacker mandolin a while ago. The action is not as good as my Alvarez...it doesn't fret as well my Alvarez and seems stiff...any suggestion that might make it more enjoyable to play...any similar experience with the Backpacker?

Thanks

[pelone]

I replaced the strings that were on my backpacker with as set of JM-11's that definetly helped the sound and ease of chording. I then lowered the strings by taking a bit of material off both the nut and bridge which eased the amount of pressure needed to depress the strings, especially at the first fret. The pack packer is not great in sound projection but it is handy on those trips where you might be limited to what and how you might pack for a trip. And besides--what sane person would not pack a mando--the best conversation starter discovered and likely the most effective aphrodisiac?

[mandroid]

I sanded a bit off the base of the bridge, of mine, too, and Its Fine, now .
restrict your string selection to med/lite sets with .010 Es anything heavyer
is out of OEM spec. could cause trouble in the long run.

speaks up nicely .