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RS Berkeley Adj Barrel problem

Author: OneWatt
Date: 2021-02-14 04:44

I recently purchased an RS Berkeley adjustable barrel (also sold as a "Freedom" barrel) Model #FACB-01 and, although I'm pleased with its aluminum construction and design, I can't understand why the lower hole is significantly wider in diameter than any other barrel I have on hand. The others include two included with my Ridenour clarinet and another with an LJ Huchtens student model - all of which are nicely interchangeable and snug.

As a result, it basically falls off the upper segment of either one of my two Bb clarinets. The tenon corks on both clarinets are in excellent shape (the Ridenour is new, and its cork is still on the "fluffy" side - not compressed at all)

QUESTION: Is there something I can do (modify?) to permanently reduce insertion diameter of this Berkeley barrel? I know that teflon tape can be used to plump up the cork on the upper section of my clarinet(s), but I don't want to keep having to do this each time I switch barrels - teflon tape on/off/on/off...

Perhaps some electrical tape set inside the inner bore of the adjustable barrel will narrow its diameter? Getting that to sit right (no leaks) and stay tight could be a challenge, and not a permanent one either. Any other ideas?

I've reached out to the seller of the barrel and also sent an email to the manufacturer. Haven't gotten any reply yet from either - perhaps they come in different sizes.

The inner diameter difference (per my micrometer) is roughly 0.5mm in - but clearly that's enough to go from "snug fit" to "barrel simply falling off" in midair.

Pretty frustrating, and confusing too. Does anyone else have this problem with the Berkeley adjustable barrel (or another too-wide barrel with a solution in hand) or did I just get a poorly machined specimen?

Thanks for any insights.

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