Precision Fret Tang Nipper for Medium frets. Effortlessly removes the tang at the fret ends, ensuring a cleaner, smoother look for your guitar neck from the side. More
Hosco Fret Tang Nipper for Medium Frets
Streamline your fretwork with this durable and precise tool designed specifically for removing tangs from guitar fretwire. Its all-metal construction ensures longevity, while the sleeved handles offer a comfortable, non-slip grip for extended use.
Perfect for working on Bound Fingerboards, the Fret Tang Nipper allows you to cleanly and effortlessly remove fret tangs, leaving minimal sanding required for a smooth finish. A must-have for any luthier looking to achieve a polished and professional look on guitar necks.
What is a Bound Fretboard?
Fret wire, when viewed from the end, has a "T" shape. The top of the "T" is called the crown, and the vertical leg is the tang. The tang is the part inserted into the fretboard. On a typical unbound fretboard, the tang remains visible along the sides of the neck after installation.
A bound fretboard, on the other hand, features a binding strip that runs around the edges of the fretboard, covering the ends of the frets. This binding serves a primarily decorative purpose, often incorporating abalone or purfling inlays for added elegance. It gives the fretboard a polished, finished appearance.
While bound fretboards look more refined and feel smoother—eliminating the sensation of fret ends when sliding your fingers along the neck—they require extra effort to construct. Luthiers must account for the binding during installation, a process that adds time and cost. Additionally, refretting a bound fretboard is more complex, as the binding must be carefully preserved to avoid damage.
An alternative approach to achieving the appearance of a bound fretboard is to cut the tangs on the fret wire ends before installation. This method eliminates the need for binding while still offering a clean, smooth finish. The small tang holes left on the side of the fretboard can be filled with a mixture of super glue and wood dust for a seamless look.
Made in | Japan |
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