Bass Nut Slots

[Zblock]

I am using .049  .069  .089  .109 strings, but the nut slots are currently too small. The string do not reach the bottom of the slots.

What nut files and gauges should I use to make slightly larger slots?

 

[mayfly]

Well, the last time I cut a bass nut (a loooong time ago), I grabbed 'stuff' from around the shop that was the same diameter of the string I was cutting for.  I seem to recall that I used a roofing nail for one of the strings.  Now that's some 'shop of hard knocks' action!  :headbang:

I did use calipers to check the diameter. 

 

[Pelagaard]

Honestly, I usually use part of the string that will be between the nut and the tuner as a file...

Just make sure, especially with bass strings, that you're not using a tapered bit of string.

 

[DaveT]

Honestly, I usually use part of the string that will be between the nut and the tuner as a file...

Just make sure, especially with bass strings, that you're not using a tapered bit of string.

Yep. I've done that!

 

[Fumblefinger]

Thing is, it's hard to get the correct angle on the cut and the bottom of the slot may wind up not being round. Just take it to a tech and have it done right.

 

[museums]

In a pinch you can wrap a piece of 400 grit sandpaper around the next lightest string and widen the nut slots that way. Go slow and check your progress often. Add a little pencil line in the bottom of the slot to make sure you aren't going deeper, just wider.