nut slot files

[badhabits]

want to get some decent ones, wondering how many and what sizes... thinking 2 or 3, 0.020" and 0.028" (looking at stew mac, any other sources?). any thoughts on # and sizes? for high G strings, mostly fluorocarbon- typical/usual worth, oasis, martin, etc.

[Titchtheclown]

I bought a couple of sets of carbide pcb router bits. I establish the position with a junior hacksaw using an old jigsaw/sabresaw blade as depth stop and then finess the slots with a USB rechargeable engraver and the carbide bits. The fit is so immaculate there may be issues if people swap strings to a brand with slightly thicker dimensions.

A 0.6 to 1.5mm set of 10 in 0.1 mm increments costs around $20 and covers most string sizes and are perfect for other engraving and inlay tasks.

[prd]

I like this set from Hosco. The sizes are 22/28, 26/36, 24/32

https://guitartools-int.com/wp-conte...11/TL-NF3U.jpg

[dwizum]

Titch - not sure I'm following - you use the saw to start the slot then freehand it to size with the engraver?

[Titchtheclown]

Titch - not sure I'm following - you use the saw to start the slot then freehand it to size with the engraver?

100% correct.

[Timbuck]

I bought the soprano ukulele set from Stewmac .020" .028" and .032"....I should have measured the strings first shouldnt I

[Michael N.]

I've used one single round needle file for the last 25 years. I have broke the very tip though, not so good for the very fine strings that are on lutes 'n such things. The LMI pippin file is OK but a thinner version with finer teeth would be a lot nicer.

[badhabits]

looks like musicnomad is coming out with fairly inexpensive diamond-coated files, that look like they would be good for setups...I may wait for those