Filing down the nut

[fivetide]

Could somebody please post me a link or two to the type of file I should be buying to file down the NuBone nut on my KoAloha?

MGM very kindly filed the nut down on my soprano, but my concert now needs doing to match, and I need to know the right tool/technique for tackling it myself.

Thanks very much in advance - much appreciated.

 

[Pondoro]

I used 320 grit sandpaper, folded in half. I was told I should use 320 and follow it up with 600, but I did not have any 600. So I followed the 320 with printer paper, to ensure no grit was left behind. I only wanted to lower the strings 0.005 inches, it did not take long, be careful!

 

[Pukulele Pete]

Try a set of welding torch tip cleaners. They are like little files of different diameters. Here in the States they cost about 3 dollars. Not the greatest tools for this work but they work good and are really cheap.

 

[buddhuu]

If I'm using bone for the nut then I always use proper nut files. Plastic is quicker and cheaper to replace, so you could try sandpaper or the welding torch tip-cleaners that Pete mentioned for plastic nuts, but I really would recommend using the proper tools for bone, corian or Tusq etc.

I use these: http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Nuts,_s...ts_and_saddles/Gauged_Nut_Slotting_Files.html

and I also have a couple of these: http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Nuts,_s...:_Nuts_and_saddles/Double-edge_Nut_Files.html

They are a bit pricey for adjusting one uke, but if you own several string instruments and like tweaking, or if you do set-ups for friends etc then they are well worth it for the time and trouble they save.

 

[CulpRJ]

I actually picked up a set of small files from the dollar store. Okay, so they're not professional grade, but neither am I. I like the square one for nut slots. You can see them in this video:
Baritone Ukulele Restoration - New Nut