I doubt the holes were drilled to lessen weight. Rather, more inertia is put forward of the shank, hence improving power and tone. Paul <table width=100%> <tr valign=top> <td width=40%>"Fenton Murray" <fmurray@cruzio.com> Sent by: pianotech-bounces@ptg.org 09/09/2008 12:46 AM <table border> <tr valign=top> <td bgcolor=white> <div align=center>Please respond to Pianotech List <pianotech@ptg.org></div></table> <td width=59%> <table width=100%> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>To</div> <td>"Pianotech List" <pianotech@ptg.org> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>cc</div> <td> <tr valign=top> <td> <div align=right>Subject</div> <td>Re: reducing hammer weight</table> <table> <tr valign=top> <td> <td></table> </table> <tt>Just that was done on this original set of hammers on this Steinway Upright from 1878. The top couple of octaves in the treble were drilled, my guess weight was not the issue, but rather trying to improve the tone. First time I have seen this, then 2 days later I see the post. Fenton ----- Original Message ----- From: <A440A@aol.com> To: <pianotech@ptg.org> Sent: Monday, September 08, 2008 5:20 PM Subject: Re: reducing hammer weight > : > > << I've a set of hammers that I'd like to reduce the weight on, but I'm > pleased > > with the shape, width, etc., of them.  What would you do?? >> > > I would take a scrap piece of wood like the molding, weigh it, and then > drill > a hole and weigh it again.  I think you will find a negligible difference. > Regards, > Ed Foote RPT > http://www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/index.html > www.uk-piano.org/edfoote/well_tempered_piano.html > ************** Psssst...Have you heard the news? There's a > new fashion blog, plus the latest fall trends and hair styles at > StyleList.com. > (http://www.stylelist.com/trends?ncid=aolsty00050000000014)</HTML> > > </tt>