SORTED: Nut filing advice ltd ec1000

dilithium85

 I've just brought 12 gauge Ernie ball and didn't really think about nut slot width!
At the moment 10s fit comfortably will 12s be a stretch? Will I need to file the low e? Could I use the sandpaper wrapped round the string technique? Anyone had any experience?
Thanks

Edit: a stewmac tutorial video and some light filing and all the strings are in place. only the low e slot needed widening

SteveRobinson

You should certainly file it. I've seen plenty of nuts with the bass end snapped off when the heavier gauge string is pulled down into the slot as it's tuned.

If you don't have access to nut files then a rat tail file is probably best, used with caution.

Maynehead

Sandpaper wrapped around your old strings sounds like it should work, as long as you're careful not to take too much off the bottom of your slot. You could also try sandpaper wrapped around feeler gauges.

dilithium85

I have a couple of nut files but haven't done much work on that area before. It's usually frets and electronics