I've been looking at various 5th string capo options. I am reluctant to drill into my banjo, so what do people on here think is the best alternative?
12 Comments |
 | Ianinuk says:
4/2/2014 2:44:55 AM
If you don't want to drill, something like a ''suspender'' capo (or a paperclip) will work. Spikes work great though, and even though they're drilled are the least obtrusive method I've used. Unlike a Shubb fifth string capo or similar, you hardly notice they're there. If however, you only capo to A or D, you could just tune the string up.
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 | Debs says:
4/2/2014 2:49:28 AM
I've used the top off an old biro before, and I've now got one of those "Earl's suspender" capos - both work great until I get a bit too enthusiastic, accidently knock them and send them flying across the room! I am seriously considering spikes before I take someone's eye out!!
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 | joemac says:
4/2/2014 3:21:27 AM
Spikes is the only way to go, you will need to get the left hand thumb over the top of that 5th string at some point in you playing career, never use something that will go across the neck at the back or may increase neck thickness by screwing a brass strip across the top. Take you banjo to a recognised luthier and get your spikes fitted properly, you'll regret it later if you don't go with spikes.
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Rikkidikkidoo says:
4/2/2014 3:27:04 AM
Spikes is the way to go.
There's a chap on eBay who sells them together with a drill bit and detailed instructions for just a few pounds. Just take your time and follow the instructions and you'll be OK. It took me a week or two to summon up the courage to drill into the neck but it was fine.
The only thing I'd advise is perhaps to nip a millimeter off the end of the spike and put a dab of superglue on the end before you hammer it home.
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 | Dibbo says:
4/2/2014 4:37:02 AM
I really don't have the confidence to fit spikes myself - I break into a sweat just thinking about it. My banjo isn't exactly top notch, but, you know, it's me banjer!!
I'd have to get someone to do it for me *hyperventilates*
In the meantime, I think the Earl suspender capo will have to suffice. Given the H&S issues involved, Debs, I'll carry out a risk assessment first.
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 | alfiedog says:
4/2/2014 10:51:31 AM
Spike's
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 | buckbybanjoboy says:
4/2/2014 1:08:08 PM
Yup, spikes.
Only use a suspender capo on a heavily inlaid open back where spikes would have to go into the shell.
Did try one of the Eagle sprung type, utterly useless.
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| buckbybanjoboy says:
4/2/2014 1:08:09 PM
Yup, spikes.
Only use a suspender capo on a heavily inlaid open back where spikes would have to go into the shell.
Did try one of the Eagle sprung type, utterly useless.
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| buckbybanjoboy says:
4/2/2014 1:08:54 PM
Sorry these iPads are super sensitive !
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 | Laurence Diehl says:
4/3/2014 2:32:38 PM
The good thing about spike is you can pull them out and fill the holes, you will never know they were there.
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| Dibbo says:
4/4/2014 4:32:42 AM
Oh, all right then: spikes!
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 | BrightonMalc says:
4/6/2014 8:37:19 AM
Hi Dibbo , I'm having a bit of trouble getting hold of you . Can you pm me your email ? All the best, Malc
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