jmoathout - Posted - 07/23/2014:  13:17:01

This subject has been discussed previously, but this is perhaps a new wrinkle.  I had been using the "Davis Coin" method to verify head tension on my open back skin head banjos. I had found (and reported) that I had good luck using and setting head tension so that a quarter just passed with a slight audible "click".  But, this was two separate pieces and a little bulky.  The straight edge was a broken drafting triangle which just happened to be 10 3/16" on one side.

Later, I decided to order one of Steve Davis' gauges which was received quickly.  But, it didn't work for me at all.

On my 11" skin heads, the original gauge indicated I needed MUCH lower tension, which would have sounded awful. 

 Talking with Steve, I learned that his gauges  were designed for plastic heads like Remo and for Bluegrass banjos.  After some conversations and testing, Steve exchanged the original gauge with one he specifically made for me based on our discussions: namely an 8" gauge that would pass a dime using a straight edge.  (This is equivalent to a quarter under a 10 3/16" edge.)

I received it today and it appears spot-on.  I used it on several banjos, different tunings without a problem. Just to check, I backed off the tension on one Reiter with John Balch head, and the gauge immediately picked it up.

It also seems to work on 12" banjos without a problem.  It's nice to have a one-piece device that works. I do have a Drum Dial and Drum Torque, but the little piece of plastic with "feet" does the trick.

I have no financial or other interest. YMMV.

Edited by - jmoathout on 07/23/2014 13:17:24

rudy - Posted - 07/23/2014:  14:24:54

Those unfamiliar with Steve's method can find the link to the  Banjo Hangout original discussion on my links page:

bluestemstrings.com/pageLynx.html

Old Hickory - Posted - 07/23/2014:  14:46:24

Steve's method is great in its simplicity and repeatability.

The important thing to remember is that it doesn't matter whether a clearance equal to the thickness of a specific coin -- penny, nickel, dime, quarter -- always equals a specific head note on every banjo.  The value of the coin and stick is to measure the deflection of your head once you have have it tightened to a sound you like so that you always have a point of reference whenever the head needs re-tightening. The only way to do this before was with a Drum Dial, something that most players don't own. Everyone can find a coin and a stick.