Strings for bowl back mandolin

[DENNY7P]

Just pick up a 13"scale bowel back, want to know the size some of you put on your's :grin:

[mandopete]

I'm really hoping that's a typo in the message title!

:)

[TomTyrrell]

I'm thinking it would make sense to use gut strings on a bowel back...

[Lawn Jockey]

I *think* you need to watch the tension with bowl backs. At least that's what I've been told with mine.....some of the new reproductions......maybe not.

I am using GHS A260's (011 016 024W 038W).

You may even go lighter, but those work well with mine with no adverse affects.

Good luck!

[allenhopkins]

Without knowing any more info than you've given, I'd advise light gauge strings. Most bowl-backs aren't braced for the strings we generally use on carved-top and flat-top, flat-back instruments.

Later: after Mike E's wise and judicious action, I'll also edit my post.

[MikeEdgerton]

The Moderator felt the need to edit the Subject line ~:>

[SHORTY]

I would also like to know if my bowl back needs gut or wire strings? It's a new build [4years] from Antonio in Taiwan. It is the one with the Madona and child painted on the back.
Thanks,
Shorty

[TomTyrrell]

OK, now that the fun is over. I only put really light gauge strings on old bowl backs.

TI lights, the lightest Dogal Calaces, or the GHS phosphor bronze ultra lights. Heavier strings might not be a problem but I'd rather err on the side of caution.

[DENNY7P]

i was away! thanks for fixing my typooooo

[mandroid]

Bronze wound and x-light GHS A240 [9-13-20-32], seems suitable and a bit less $ than TI

my a0 gibby wears their med-light A250 [10-15-24-36].