Here’s my EG Smith “bluegrass” model tone bar after having a machinist grind a sharper edge for snappier pull-offs. Note before and after photos. (Not exact on camera angles, but you get the idea).
Works great. I was aiming for an edge similar to my Beard 20/20—and he got there in spades.
I’ve heard the Ferrari analogy for Scheerhorn bars (which I’ve used and like…)
If the Scheerhorn is a Ferrari, this modified EG Smith is a Formula 1 car—small, sleek, low-profile, and sharp…lol.
Caution…not for those with huge hands! It’s the smallest bar I’ve seen or used.
I’d love to get a Smith bar, but they’re very difficult to find anymore. I’ll have to settle for my Scheerhorn.
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Originally posted by taygroverI’d love to get a Smith bar, but they’re very difficult to find anymore. I’ll have to settle for my Scheerhorn.
Greg Boyd's House of Fine Instruments out of Montana sells these. Did you check their stock? Here's a link to the 3 models they offer.
https://gregboyd.com/product/eg-smith-bars-all-three/
Pay attention to dimensions. The "bluegrass" model is the smallest bar I've seen out there (too small for some).
"Settling" for a Scheerhorn ain't so bad - it's a world class tone bar.
For me, the EG Smith Bluegrass model fits my hand and technique best though. YMMV.
Thank you! I looked for these a few years ago, but they were out of production. I will order one pronto!
I ordered one too. JC should get a commission!
JC Dobro I just received it. I don’t know if I can control this bar. Do you remember an adjustment period? I’m used to a classic Stevens bar but the Smith seems to turn in my grip. If that makes any sense.
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Originally posted by skydogJC Dobro I just received it. I don’t know if I can control this bar. Do you remember an adjustment period? I’m used to a classic Stevens bar but the Smith seems to turn in my grip. If that makes any sense.
I had a big adjustment period when I first made the move from a classic bar to a sleeker "sports car" style bar. The smaller size, sharper edge, and nose bevel were all new experiences. After that initial shock adjustment, I can now pretty much move from bar to bar with minimal disruption. (Like some players, I favor certain bars for certain styles of playing. I have several on my shelf...).
Which model EG Smith did you get? The smallest ("bluegrass") model, or the larger one? If it's the smallest, and if you have large hands, that could be a potential issue you may not be able to resolve.
Regrdless, IMO it's worth giving it a couple weeks to see if starts feeling comfortable.
Just be advised, many of us have cycled through several bars before landing on the #1 "keeper" :)
I bought the bluegrass model.
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