In a message dated 2/5/00 7:54:54 PM Pacific Standard Time, jformsma@dixie-net.com writes: << I currently use a Hale extension tuning lever, but was wondering if there is anything else better. Have any of you switched from using a Hale lever to a different one? If so, what kind do you now use, why do you like it better, etc.? >> I have used now for over 10 years the Wonderwand made by Charles Heuther RPT, one of PTG's past Presidents and (I think) Golden Hammer award winners. It is distinguished by the ball at the end which fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. This keeps your hand more relaxed rather than having to grip the lever. I have always used an impact technique to manipulate the hammer having learned this from Jim Coleman RPT and George Defebaugh RPT over 20 years ago. The moment I tried this ball type tuning hammer, it felt comfortable to me and I have never gone back to the usual lever type since. It costs about $80.00. If you like a particular type of hammer but are intrigued by the ball and think that you might like to have it occasionally, Mayer Gluzman RPT of Michigan has designed and sells at quite a reasonable price a ball that will fit on the end of a standard tuning hammer. You can put it on and take it off at will. My personal opinion of the question about which tuning hammer might be best is the same as I have for a tuning fork. Buying an expensive one won't make you a better tuner. You can use the cheapest fork available. Also, a rather inexpensive tuning hammer will do the job just as well. There are some really cheap ones (the gooseneck type and the one sold in some music paraphernalia catalogs) however, that I would not recommend. As with many questions about tools and techniques, you have to find what works best for you, and what you are most comfortable with personally. Spending more than $100 for a tuning hammer would make just about as much difference as spending more than $100 on a watch. It might look a little more luxurious and fancy but it won't do the job it is intended for any better than a more modestly priced item. Regards, Bill Bremmer RPT Madison, Wisconsin
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