Picks: Fred Kelly Freedom Pick (Derlin)

Submitted by H Kimball on 7/8/2018

Where Purchased: Fred Kelly - website

Overall Comments

I purchased both the White (Delrin) and Clear (polycarbonate) picks from Fred's website about 2 months ago. I was playing more and wearing down my nail as well as breaking a nail 3 or 4 times a year. I have used Dunlop metal and plastics picks in the past as needed but didn't like the fit or tone. I have found that both types of Freedom Picks work great and provide a slight increase in volume without any "clicking" or harsh tone. There is an adjustment period getting used to the switch from a nail only. Initially I filed the picks down because they seemed too long. After about 2 weeks I switched to using the picks "as delivered". The picks from Fred come in a 3 pack so I was glad I had extras. I didn't have to modify the fit at all and have worn them playing for several hours. After using both picks I have settled in on the White (delrin) style, I think it has a softer tone but when playing in a large jam occasionally I'll switch to the clear.  Great product!

Overall Rating: 9

Bart Reiter: Buckbee

Submitted by H Kimball on 8/10/2016

Where Purchased: Banjo Hangout classifieds

Year Purchased: 2016
Price Paid: $1050 (bought USED) historic exchange rates / currency converter

Sound

For clawhammer/old time music this is a great banjo. Brass tone ring provides a clear tone, Volume of this banjo is better than expected.

Sound Rating: 9

Setup

A John Balch calfskin head was on the Buckbee when purchased and original Remo head was included. I recommend the hide head. I added a .656 Purcell bridge (original was 5/16). All I did was tighten the hooks and strings and started playing, Set up was fine.

Setup Rating: 8

Appearance

I like the plain appearance of Reiter's Buckbee, Finish is excellent and the squared headstock gives this banjo an "old" appearance.

Appearance Rating: 8

Reliability

Quality hardware on this banjo.

Reliability Rating: 9

Customer Service

Have not dealt directly with Reiter Banjos. Both Reiters I own were purchased "slightly used".

Customer Service: not rated

Components

Components Rating: not rated

Overall Comments

This banjo offers an "old appearance" but with a modern set up, ready to play out of the box.  Sound quality is excellent for old-time music. I also like the light weight of this banjo, it's very comfortable to play.  I also have a Reiter Bacophone-Plus model, but  tend to play the Buckbee most of the time. 

Overall Rating: 9