Tailguts Tailguts are a perennial problem with the new family of violins. First, the standard lengths don't fit, and, second, some of the larger new family instruments come in two models, one with deep ribs and one with shallow ribs. Each will require a different size tailgut. The tailguts on this page will fit the Spear second-generation models and the original Hutchins shallow-rib designs. I do not offer a tailgut for the deep-rib models because no one I am aware of is building them. Modified alto tailgut: $6.95 Modified tenor tailgut: $6.95 |
Tailguts |
The lack of properly sized tailguts seemed most acute and vexatious with regard to the alto violin, so I began my work for that instrument. In the photo on the left, the tailgut on the left is one that comes from commercial supply houses sized for a 1/10-size cello. This one happens to be from Howard Core, but others are nearly identical. It is just long enough so that your alto tailpiece will be suspended midway between the bridge and the saddle where it will look prominently odd.
The tailgut to the right is sized for an alto violin of either the Hutchins or Spear design and assumes a rib height of 38 to 40 mm. There is a generous length of thread to accommodate different alto designs and end plug diameters. Simply nip off any excess. The final length of the installed piece will be shorter than shown in the picture.
Below is a short list of measurements that might prove helpful to the octet maker.
Modified tailgut for alto violin:
length of material = 200 mm; length of thread = 35 mm.
Modified tailgut for tenor violin:
length of material = 260 mm; length of thread = 40 mm
Wittner tailgut with tailpiece for 1/2 - 3/4 cello:
length of material = 280 mm; length of thread = 40 mm.
The nylon material of the "gut" is the heavier size normally supplied for all cellos. It is about 3.5 mm in diameter or slightly less. Some of the Chinese types are considerably thinner, but still seem to work. I don't offer the Chinese product as custom-length items. Because different manufacturers work to different standards, be aware that on some wooden tailpieces the holes bored to receive the tailgut might have to be widened slightly.
Since I run a small shop, I buy the tailguts and modify them for length, then I cut the threads by hand with a die. This accounts for the present price, but I think you'll find that the expense is more than offset by the time you save. The price at present is $6.95. To order, contact me. Please inquire If you need a tailgut in a special size.
Last updated May 15, 2008.