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What size nut files should I use? should they match the string guage, or should I use a file that's slightly larger. For example, if my high and low E's are .010 and .046, respectively, do I need files that are .010 and .046, or would it be better to use .013 and .050?

Erlewine's book says same size or a little smaller

the set I got from Warmoth works well for 10-46

I've gone from 9s to 11s with out altering the nut and without nut buzzing. Are you having issues?

Two issues. The sustain on the high-E on my strat is lacking. I've finally tracked it down to the nut: it seems that it was cut with a slight tilt downward towards the finger board. I was going to fill the slot with super glue and recut it.

On another guitar, I would like to lower the low-E string.

Curly: are you sure the files need to be narrower than the strings? Somehow that sounds terribley wrong.

I've had good results using nut files that were just a few thousandths of an inch bigger. For example, it would be feasible to use a .010quot; file to cut a slot for a .009quot; string. It's certainly better to start smaller, as you could always open the slot up. I use small jeweler's files to do the wound strings. You'd want the string to have a little room to move back and forth thru the nut.


Originally Posted by MattPeteCurly: are you sure the files need to be narrower than the strings? Somehow that sounds terribley wrong.

IIRC, that's what Erlewine says. He says he uses a rocking motion to get it to size. Personally, I just use as close to the string size as possible.


Originally Posted by CurlyIIRC, that's what Erlewine says. He says he uses a rocking motion to get it to size. Personally, I just use as close to the string size as possible.

1 on same size or slightly smaller.

You can always make the slot a little bit bigger if the string binds in it, but once the slot is too big you're sunk.

BTW I keep a set of d'Addarrio string ends with the color coded balls - about 1quot; each - to check the nut slots while I'm cutting. Helps get the depth right, etc.

Chip