Re: [Harp-L] reed removal tool

[Michelle LeFree <mlefree@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Jon Eriksen writes
> the Romel tool is available @ Bill's website.   his brother in law is
> making them and they're only $40
>    

That's good news, Jon. I know a lot of folks like that Romel tool. I 
wonder if the brother-in-law does any of the other work that Bill used 
to do?

And, for the OP, I agree with the good Dr. Antaki - anything from a nail 
to a properly-sized center punch will work. I use a little pointed punch 
that I think came with the Hering toolkit. I bet Antaki has a real slick 
$1 solution.

On the other end of the spectrum, here's this -- a mini arbor press from 
MicroMark:

http://www.micromark.com/PRESS-IT-PRECISION-ARBORandPUNCH-PRESS,9309.html

I don't want to take anything away from the Romel tool; I've never even 
seen one in person. Like I say, I hear they work great. But this arbor 
press can apply up to 250 lb of force. It is ~$60 but it is metal and 
much more heavy-duty than the Romel tool, which if I am not mistaken is 
made of Plexiglass or similar plastic. Another cool thing about the 
arbor press is that it has a number of very handy accessories such as 
the drill/tap holder and assorted punches, etc.

For a bit more of an investment, if one feels the need for a mechanical 
aid for removing reeds, it seems to this observer that the mini arbor 
press would be a very versatile addition to your workbench. One could 
remove old rivets and reset new ones, drill and tap reed plates, and so 
on with precision.

Michelle