Bowlin Fretless Banjo 1865 Model
submitted 9/17/2007
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Submitter |
Kole |
Where Purchased |
Bowlin Banjos |
Year Purchased |
2007 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember
historic exchange rates / currency converter
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Sound
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This banjo suits my style of music perfectly. I play songs from the pre-civil war era thru the turn of the century. I also play Roundpeak style banjo quite often. I dont use any amps or sound equipment . The Model 1865 has a very rich, full sound on its own. I was very suprised when I played the first couple of notes and knew right away this banjo was a keeper. This banjo has no problem being heard over a fiddle. It can also be very soft and melodic depending on the strike of the strings. The sound of this banjo is unmatched compared to other minstrel type banjos I've owned in the past. Its really a beautiful sounding instrument. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
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The banjo was set-up perfectly right out of the box. All that had to be done was to bring it into tune. The action was right on the mark for a banjo of this era. There is no scoop neccessary for those who like to play above the pot. The action is set high enough. The banjo excels very nicely above the pot. No set-up changes were neccessary . The 24 in. scale length makes the 1865 extremley playable. The notes are very accessible due to the shorter scale. They seem to fly right off the fingerboard with ease. It really is a fun banjo to play. |
Setup Rating |
10 |
Appearance
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The Bowlin Model 1865 banjo is a real beauty to look at. The dark brown maple neck has a nice satin finish. It feels very smooth. The 12' black maple pot is equally beautiful and blends very nicely with the neck. Banjo makers were not inlaying in the mid-1800's. John doesnt use them so the banjo is historically accurate. This was important to me because I am heavily involved with music reenactments. The banjo was flawless and package for shipping better than anything I've ever seen. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
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The hardware is of A-one top quality. I believe its all made by Bowlin Banjo works. Its also antiqued for historical accuracy. The work is of top quality. Nothing tacky. The Grover Champion tuners are also taken apart an antiqued. The hardware will easily last 150 years. I believe the finish on the hardware will just get better with age. I am 100% confident of its reliability. I would absolutly use this instrument on a gig without a backup. Its a very solid and stout banjo. I dont think you can hurt it. |
Reliability Rating |
10 |
Customer Service
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John Bowlin is a perfect gentleman and his main goal, other than offering a great banjo , is customer satisfaction. Really the whole experience was quite rewarding. John spells it out for you in simple terms exactly what the process is. He makes one banjo, one at a time. This is how he maintains his high quality end.(IMO). John is very easy to talk to. I was very comfortable right from the first phone call. Still am. I'm not sure about a warranty. I know if something was to go wrong, John would take care of it immediately. He doesnt really advertise, so customer service is of the utmost importance. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
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I really enjoy the hand made hardware. The shoes and brackets combined with the tension hoop always catch my eye. The antique look is attractive. Also, the ebony tailpiece is pretty cool. No upgrades needed. Everything is very well made. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
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I would reccomend this banjo to anyone that plays old-time music clawhammer style. It is very versatile. This banjo is worth alot more than what I paid for it. If it was stolen, I would be very upset. I would order a new one right away and then hunt the SOB who stole mine. I think my favorite feature of this banjo is the versatility. For instance, you can play up the neck and the tone will get deep. You can really get that "cluck" thing going on. Adjuste the hand down toward the pot a little and the banjo gets a little softer and mellower. It can handle a driving rhythm quite well. Compared to other banjos. Its one of the best I've ever played. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
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