Our son Roc liked Edward’s viola from the very instant he played the first note. He was very captivated by its sonority and profound sound.
Violin Bow Brass Eye Replacement (Violin, Viola & Cello Bows)
This violin, viola or cello bow came into the workshop because the player was unable to increase the hair tension. I see this quite often, and there are several possible reasons for it. It can be due to poor adjustment, an issue in the original making of the bow, or simply because the player has not realised that the bow needs a rehair.
In many cases, the bow hair may have stretched over time, or a knot securing the hair inside the frog may have failed. The player continues to tighten the bow, but eventually reaches the end of the frog’s travel along the stick. If they continue to tighten it further, believing the sudden stiffness is caused by something else, the threads of the brass eye can eventually strip.
What Causes a Brass Eye to Strip?
Poor adjustment can be a contributing factor. The brass eye may have been screwed too far into the frog, pulling the frog too tightly against the stick. This creates additional tension and friction, which can lead to increased wear on the threads.
The alignment of the brass eye within the frog, and the corresponding hole through which the adjuster passes, is also important. If these are not correctly centred in relation to the stick and frog, unwanted tension and friction can be placed on the brass eye and its threads.
Over time, this can cause the threads to wear or strip, leaving the player unable to adjust the bow correctly.
Violin Bow Brass Eye Replacement
Violin bow brass eye replacement is generally straightforward when carried out correctly, but there are several important factors to consider. Different bows may use different thread patterns, and the diameter and length of the shaft entering the frog can vary depending on the origin and construction of the bow.
The replacement brass eye must therefore be correctly matched to the bow and accurately fitted to the existing frog and adjuster. Careful attention to alignment is essential to ensure that the frog travels smoothly along the stick and that unnecessary friction is avoided.
Does Your Bow Need a Brass Eye Replacement?
If your bow is no longer tightening correctly, do not continue forcing the adjuster. There may be a simple explanation, such as the bow hair having reached the end of its useful life, but continued tightening can potentially cause further damage.
If you are unsure why your bow is not tightening, bring it to Edward Gaut Violins in Shipham, near Bristol, for a free consultation. We can assess the bow and advise whether it requires a rehair, adjustment, violin bow brass eye replacement, or another repair.
Edward Gaut Violins
Shipham, near Bristol
Telephone: 01934 844547
Email: [email protected]