Bass Top Ferrules

[swarfrat]

I've never looked closely at top ferrules, but my understanding is that they do differ from bottom ferrules.  I'd like to find some black top ferrules for a U-bass - so the E string is like 0.200. Are they sized to strings or all the same size? Is there a consideration when enlarging existing holes? Are the holes big enough? Do they work without back ferrules? Since this is a u-bass the back holes are quite large - enough for knotting the strings (though they all end up using a nylon zip tie instead of a knot.)

Also - since I'm looking for black - I can't really modify something without looking ugly. Drat.

 

[Cagey]

I've never looked closely at them either, not having any call for them. But, I would have expected that they'd have smooth edges so as to be easy on the strings to prevent breakage. I also wouldn't have expected them to be available in black, as it seems they'd look terrible in no time flat due to wear. But, I'm way off. they come in all shapes, sizes and finishes. There's a whole page of them here.