Hammer hardeners: a poll

[Joseph Garrett]

Matt,
It depends on what I'm trying to accomplish. If I simply want a tad more
"impact" sound to the already nice overall tone, I will use acetone/keytop
material. If I want to firm up the shoulders or totally brighten the top
treble I use lacquer 10:1.
If I want to firm up the strike point(s) in general, I will use sanding
sealer, (lacquer based), and acetone. The latter remains much more amiable
with needles and tends not to get rock hard like a set of hammers I have in
my "Show & Tell" box, (al a Fandrich<G>). Ironing is also in my bag of
tricks, as well.
Of course, for opposite direction voicing, there is steam, alcohol/water and
needles of varying sizes and numbers.
All of these things fit into a kit, so that when it's time to do serious
voicing, out comes the kit and I have everything right there.
Regards,
Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)