software

I don't have any special nut files, but I'm pretty sure the stock nut on my MIM strat needs to have the slots widened to accomodate for my .11's. How would I do this?

Why do you think the nut needs wider slots? Are the strings sticking when you tune up, then jumping sharp? Or do they go out of tune whenever you use the Whammy?

Try Nut Sauce or some other liquid graphite in the nut slots before you try widening the slots. If that doesn't work, go to a luthier or buy/borrow some files to do the job right.

Frankly, replacing the nut with Graph Tech was a good upgrade for my MIM Strat. Crisper tone and stays in tune much better. Unfortunately, making a nut right requires practice, patience, and the right tools. And at least one spare nut blank for the one(s) you screw up

Just my humble opinion...

Chip

Just take a set of strings (the guage you want to use) and rub them back and fourth thorugh the slot until you are satisfied with the width. Since you are only doing 6 slots this way will work fine. Its alot slower than files but, its alot cheaper and it will get the job done.


Originally Posted by theodieJust take a set of strings (the guage you want to use) and rub them back and fourth thorugh the slot until you are satisfied with the width. Since you are only doing 6 slots this way will work fine. Its alot slower than files but, its alot cheaper and it will get the job done.

I've heard people have done this before! I have only a couple of nut files and need to buy a set.... so i have used just those few to get close before and i have used this string idea on a few low E and A strings slots...

I only think I need to do this on the 3 bass strings. When I play these strings acoustically they sound very dull compared to when I had 10s on this guitar.

Thicker strings will sound warmer than thinner ones! Are you possibly getting that mixed up with dull??? BTW, MIM strats are usually set up for 9's but, you can get away with 10's. The 3 bass strings and quot;Maybequot; the G string will need attention.

BTW, the dullness might be the nut slot isue also.


Originally Posted by WhoFanI've heard people have done this before! I have only a couple of nut files and need to buy a set.... so i have used just those few to get close before and i have used this string idea on a few low E and A strings slots...

Yup, it works!! I have a number of nut files to cover guages on guitars. When I get a bass in the shop I usually use the .060 for everything. It takes more time but, it can be done with great results. I could probally get away with using a .010 but, time is money!!!