Are the C and B drone stocks still good to use or has anything changed?
Also do all
you makers use the same woode for the stocks as the rest of the pipes?
Hi Bob
C&B stocks are not bad. My own main is bored 1.5" and the ferrule is 42mm
int diameter as I like a bit more room for my drones. I also put the tying
in groove about half way down the body instead of at the end. The drones
balance better.
The others are OK but I would make the base of the blowpipe stock wider, so
the bottom of the groove would measure say 30mm. It ties more securely and
resists the stresses of blowing better.
The chanter stock could be flared towards the inside to give the reed a bit
more room.
I use matching woods for the chanter and blowpipe stocks, but various others
for the drone.
Hard maple and Laburnum are two favourites but any wood that isn't too
porous will do.
Laburnum stained black with spirit dye is a good match for blackwood.
These days I dry the drone stock blocks thoroughly in the microwave before
boring and fitting. The drone ferrule will not come loose on a block treated
this way. Its amazing how much water you can remove from wood you've had for
years.
Instruction can be had off the web, but I have no current references.
Don't overheat the wood tho or the oven will get a funny smell and you
won't be popular.
Cheers,
Dave
Dave Shaw, Northumbrian and Scottish Smallpipes, Irish Pipes and SHAW
Whistles
www.daveshaw.co.uk
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