[Harp-L] gapping at the factory

[JON KIP <jon@xxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm wondering at what point in the manufacturing of chromatic harmonicas, (probably same for diatonic) that the gapping is done. I have some packages of new reeds for hohner's deluxe 270, and I don't think they come with any arcing at all. I've seen  that i have to gap them in order to just have them set at a nominal gap above the plate, before I mess with them, and start them on the road to ruination and almost certain death, where, for a brief moment, they react well and are in tune.

So far, the option of a "Delete" button when you remove too much metal from a reed seems to be better than just retuning in the opposite direction....but none of my harmonica tools has a "delete" or "UnDo" button .... another example of Hohner remaining in the Dark Ages, i suppose.

I've seen the "How a harmonica is made" video and it doesn't mention gapping them.

Anyone know when the gapping happens in making a chromatic at the factory?

thanks