Notching Bridge Saddles...

ohmygodtheykilledkenny · Post by **ohmygodtheykilledkenny** » Sat May 31, 2008 3:47 pm

Hey guys,

I recently overhauled my Les Paul with excellent results, but I'm having a bit of an issue with my bridge saddles not being notched.

What is the best way to properly notch these?

Thanks,

Travis

Roe · Post by **Roe** » Sun Jun 01, 2008 6:14 am

stewmac has lots of files and stuff

fillmore nyc · Post by **fillmore nyc** » Sun Jun 01, 2008 10:50 am

Roe wrote:stewmac has lots of files and stuff

Yeah, Trav, the best (really the only) way to do that is with some nut files. I bought a graduated set a few years ago, and they have been indispensable for doing that kind of work. My set has the following files in it:

.010 / .016 / .024 / .032 / .042 / .052

You can use each file for various string diameters by "rolling" the file side to side when cutting a slot. (like the .010 can cut a slot for a .014 string by ramping, or widening the sides of the slot with this rolling action. The slot should be slightly larger than the string diameter anyway to avoid the string getting caught up in the slot when tuning. (thats really more applicable to nuts than bridges). A .010 file is perfect for cutting a slot for an .009, AND an .011 string. A .016 works great for an .013, .017, ect.

For a bridge, the slot needs to be only 1/2 to 3/4 the depth of the string diameter, meaning 1/2 to 1/4 of the string can be protruding above the saddle body. You only need enough string in the saddle to keep it from popping out when string bending.

They're great for cutting nuts, or for really fine tuning a set-up on an existing nut.

A small investment that really comes in handy.

ohmygodtheykilledkenny · Post by **ohmygodtheykilledkenny** » Sun Jun 01, 2008 11:45 am

Sounds like they would come in quite handy, I'll look into it. I assumed this was going to involve some new tools.

Cheers,

Travis