Screws

[pied_piper]

I think I'd rather buy a screwdriver that has a nice handle rather than one that has a perfect fit, then file it down.

IMO, there are several flaws with that approach:
- What if you need the size of the original screwdriver? Now you still have to buy another one like the one you filed down.
- Most of the top-grade screwdrivers are triple-chrome plated. Filing removes the plating and the filed area will rust more easily.
- Hollow ground tips on top-grade screwdrivers provide a greater contact surface with the screw slot and filing will ruin that advantage.
- Time is money and it takes time to file the tip

Call me a tool junkie, but I have dozens of screwdrivers/handles/tips to select from. Some have large handles for power (useful on larger instruments and older, rusty screws that are stubborn, even with penetrating oil). Some have small precision handles and swivel tops for delicate work (like really tiny adjusting screws). Some have interchangeable handles/tips for that "just right" combination. Some are long, some are short. Some are cabinet tip, some are hollow ground. So, whether it's a piccolo, a bass sax, or something in between, whatever size I need, I have it - no filing needed - ever...

[Zevang]

Bo, just choose the one that fits the slot of the screws. They are usually the same size for the adjusting function on the mechanism, so you will always use the same tool.
These screws are not supposed to be tight so you won't need to force them nor would have to use a sofisticated screwdriver. It's really no big deal.
When adjusting, remember to turn small portions and then test the results, say a 1/4 of a turn each time. According to the results you get, refine the amount you turn until the best result come out

I really don't know why so much paranoia on adjusting screws that are there for this function.
Now, if you guys are talking about a C.O.A or something like that, I'd agree that a whole set of tools is needed.

[wkzh]

I really don't know why so much paranoia on adjusting screws that are there for this function.

Whoops forgot to mention. When I said you need precision screwdrivers, I meant that for the screw slots of the axles. The adjustment screws don't need such precise screwdrivers... unless they are stuck. Otherwise, just make sure they fit relatively snugly so there's no risk of damaging the adjustment screws. (Not as if damaging the adjustment screws would have any extreme consequences anyway... unless they're beyond hope.)

My bad XP

[pied_piper]

These screws are not supposed to be tight so you won't need to force them nor would have to use a sofisticated screwdriver. It's really no big deal.

Yes, they are not supposed to be so tight that they won't turn easily, but I've seen a number of flutes where that was not the case. For example, on my own Muramatsu, the RH adjustment screws are VERY tight and will not turn easily. I have to use a screwdriver with a large handle and a small interchangeable precision tip to move them. That's not typical, but some flutes are like that.

[Zevang]

but I've seen a number of flutes where that was not the case. For example, on my own Muramatsu, the RH adjustment screws are VERY tight and will not turn easily. I have to use a screwdriver with a large handle and a small interchangeable precision tip to move them. That's not typical, but some flutes are like that.

Yes indeed! I didn't mean to critizise, but my intention was to make the idea of adjusting the flute more comfortable. I won't recommend to anyone without the proper training nor the right tools to try anything further than that.

And there is another case, the flutes that simply don't have ANY adjusting screws (like my Sankyo). For those it's mandatory a good technician to take a look at.

[pied_piper]

Zevang - I didn't take your comment as criticism, so no harm done.

And you are absolutely correct about flutes with no adjustment screws. Most of the pro-level Boston flutes have no adjustment screws. Those require lots of time and TLC to get the mechanism adjusted correctly and are not for the faint-of-heart or the inexperienced to work on.

[Zevang]

Zevang - I didn't take your comment as criticism, so no harm done.

Thanks One good thing here is the calm and constructive atmosphere kept by all members.