Gibson A-3 - Bar Frets?

[Zigeuner]

My 1917 Gibson A-3 is now 101 years old and still has its frets in excellent condition. I was wondering if they are bar frets? They appear to be. If so do the experts here know when Gibson may have quit using them?

Also, what is a source for bar fret stock as I fully intend to be playing this mandolin for at least another hundred years and I might need to replace a few frets before my time is up.

[Buck]

Gibson never used bar frets as far as I know. They are very narrow though, which could give you that impression.

[Zigeuner]

Gibson never used bar frets as far as I know. They are very narrow though, which could give you that impression.

Thanks. That's what I wanted to know. They do look rather narrow but they are certainly durable as wear on them is minimal.

[rcc56]

I will confirm that Gibson did not use bar frets.