Author: d-oboe
Date: 2005-07-09 14:40
Just like to add about tubes and knives
I would recommend getting a few good tubes from a respected dealer. They are usually made of better material. Plus if you order a mandrel from them, you can ask them to make sure the tubes fit onto it. If the mandrel doesn't go all the way to the end of the tube (going a bit further is ok) It will be impossible to get good tension on the last wrap.
Knives - For now, get a good student knife, as you learn how to sharpen, etc. Later on, you will need to look into investing a good quality knife. These can cost up to 95$ CAD. (70 USD then? Don't know the exch. rate)
If your knife is not good, and can't hold a good edge, your reeds will suffer. I have tried a few knives, and can only recommend Landwell. It could be my experience, but most of the other cheapers knives are uneven, and I found it very difficult to get a smooth burr in order to scrape the tip.
I also recommend getting a few different sharpening stones. That way you have real control over the edge on your knife. Some stores sell those small pocket ceramic stones which are really good. Lee Valley tools (or comparable) sell an 800 and 8000 grit. I own the 8000 grit and only use it when I need to do really fine tip work.
Get those - they don't need oil (maybe only a bit of water) and they don't need resurfacing, as they are incredibly hard. The 800 can be used for the bulk of sharpening, including putting the edge on. The 8000 can be used to smooth the edge in order to refine the edge.
Have fun with reeds!
D
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