In a message dated 8/28/2000 9:57:16 PM, Lance wrote: <<"Dear list, I have used keytop/acetone for fifteen years now and am now convinced that it creates more unwanted noise than lacquer.">> Well Lance at least it creates a 'different' noise. :-) <<"I am in the process of getting used to using lacquer now.">> One BIG difference is the amount of time which should pass before playing on the treated hammer(s) With the keytop/acetone it is rather immediate and with the laquer it is, in my opinion, at least 24 hours. <<"1) Why do some techs use sanding sealer instead of nitrocellulose lacquer? Does it matter?">> Supposedly it dries faster and gives a more needle voicable product. I think? I don't like "sealer" for the same reasons I don't like "plastic" but some say they get excellent results from it. <<"2) What is some advice you can give me on transfering the lacquer/thinner from gallon can to a bottle for use.">> Be careful:-) , use an appropiate container, not glass. <<"3) What kind of bottle do you use?">> I use a plastic ketchup squeeze bottle with a modified tip which allows precise (HAH?) application. <<" How long must it dry?">> It continues to "dry"/cure for many weeks but reaches aprox 85/90% of hardness after 24 hours, depending on mixture used. <<"Do you ever put it on the strike point?">> Yes, depending on desired results and mixture used, as well as time available. <<"What ratio? 4:1? 5:1?">> 4:1 would be a 25% mixture, 5:1 would be a 20% mixture and, in my opinion, neither of these mixture have any place on a hammer of any make. If the hammer(s) are so mushy as to need this type mixture it would be best to get a firmer hammer to start with....the end results would probably be better anyway. The mixture I use would be a less than 4% mixture, perhaps one large eyedropper of laquer in aprox 8-10 ounces of thinner. I 'think' that most of the negative comments vis a vis voicing of "laquer treated" hammers are due to a high % mixture being used. <<"How long will it last after mixing sitting in the back of my truck?">> Until the thinner evaporates...I wouldn't carry it on appointments unless it was for a specific job on a specific day...but that is just me. Just my thoughts, certainly not the only view on the subject. Jim Bryant (FL)
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