Joseph Ricketts Banjo

[david cavage]

I just wanted to Thank John C for directing me toward this banjo, as I'm really new to this style. I made an offer and it should be arriving today. Also, you mentioned Joel for what type of bridge should go on this one. I'd like to get it set up to proper specs. I'll try to get some pictures and string height etc. Enjoyed all the Great playing this past weekend, and Thanks to Joel for letting me try out his Weaver....Great Banjo. I'm hoping this one will have great tone as well.

David

[Joel Hooks]

Sorry, I currently do not have any bridges. 

[david cavage]

Does anyone on this site know anything about working on/ repairing these vintage Rickett banjos?

[John Cohen]

Hi David, it was nice meeting you at the rally. I can help you with setup and repairs. Shoot me a private message, and I'll share my email address with you. We can take it from there. 

[david cavage]

Thanks so much John, I sent you a friends request. This one may need a reset, but I'm not sure yet, and the fifth string peg is frozen really tight. Great playing this past weekend. I'm hoping to learn to start reading this winter.

[Joel Hooks]

Regarding the neck reset.  Classic era banjos should have high action, 3/16" to 1/4" at the 12th fret, with a low bridge.  Typically bridges are 1/2" tall.  This action height is usually a shock to people who play steel strings, but it is correct.

The typical configuration is for necks to be set flat with no back angle. 

[david cavage]

Hey Joel, yes I found that out when I played a couple of banjos (including yours) last weekend. What is the action above the 12th on your Weaver? John has been very gracious with his knowledge, and I got it strung up this afternoon. The neck is slightly above parallel, and I have the action around 5mm at present with a low bridge. I'm looking forward to experimenting with tone on this one.