Re: [Harp-L] Free reed tuning tool

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

I like to hold such thin strips of metal in a tool so that only about .040" protrudes.  This provides a convenient handle and avoids pushing them too far through the slot and damaging the windsaver on the other side.  

I have a pair of tweezers with a wire loop that can be pushed down to keep them closed.  Locking forceps would also work.  Then when the protruding blade inevitably becomes damaged, I cut it off with a pair of scissors and extend about .040" more. This way a 1" strip of metal can provide a dozen or more fresh blades. It works like the knives that allow the dull, used blade tips to be broken off.

Vern

  
On Jan 29, 2011, at 6:00 AM, Michael Easton wrote:

> Over the years I've seen harpers post uses for security tags you find on cds and other products.
> 
> I finally decided to take one apart. Besides using the thin metal strips to gauge the lining of reeds in the slots another thing
> you can do with it is lift blow reeds on both diatonic and chromatic harps for tuning without the need to poke an object inside to raise it.
> 
> I've been using very thin feeler gauge to do the same thing for over 10 years now but found it can be done with the security strips as well.
> 
> Take one piece of the metal and  cut a narrow strip off the metal strip enough to slide it down the front of the reed slot.  Cut it just long enough to go down past the reed and be able to catch it underneath.  Next pull up while pulling the down the strip toward you.  Bala bing! the spring action forces the reed to pop up through the slot.  You will need to slide a thicker piece of feeler gauge under the reed to support it while tuning.
> 
> I was going to market a reed lifter using feeler gauge but decided to make the idea public domain. Enjoy.
> 
> 
> Michael Easton
> www.harmonicarepair.com
> 
> 
>