View Full Version : Weber to Gibson fret wire
Harrmob
May-07-2009, 1:30pm
I have a Weber bitterroot, of which the specs suggest .08 fret wire. I also have a Gibson A9, with much thinner wire. After a couple years of banging on both mandolins, I have come to the realization that I am a little cleaner on the Gibson. I am assuming the culprit is the wider fret wire on the Weber causes me to have to push down harder. Either that, or it is really time to get a fret job. After recent hand surgery (snapped flexor tendons in left index finger) my hand needs every relief of pressure it can get. The Weber is due for a fret job as it has been dressed once already and worn pretty good.
What size fret wire does Gibson use on the A9s, and is it possible to get that size fret wire on my Weber Bitterroot?
I am not sure what size wire Gibson uses, but you may use any size fret wire as long as the tang is compatible to the fret slot. If it is larger the slot may be widened, but if it is smaller you will have to glue in the frets,
sunburst
May-07-2009, 6:28pm
As pops said, the smaller fret wire will work fine in the slots, but it is a bit of a jump to the conclusion that the fret wire size is the difference in the sound/feel. Many aspects of set up, neck shape, or possibly other things could be causing it. A set up may be what you need, but if the frets are worn you can replace them with nearly any fret size you want.
I believe Gibson uses wire that is between .040" and .050" wide.
Rick Turner
May-07-2009, 6:36pm
Fret slots can be restored if you wind up with the new frets fitting too loose. Wick in thin superglue to the end grain on both sides of the slot, and then clean the slot with a dental burr or one of the StewMac tools. The superglue toughens up the wood and slightly narrows the gap in the slot. I figure that with this technique, a fingerboard can be refretted almost any number of times until the top of the 'board shows so much wear it just needs replacement. 200 years of playing time? There's no reason why mandolins can't last as long as violins if properly cared for and restored every now and then.