Making hocchiku tips

Opening up the nodes

I take note of the nodal points before opening up a new piece and compare these to the critical points (see Ken's pdf or Neptune's chart on his website). I record pitch and volume details as I make changes. I use a series of blades, augers and rasps to open the nodes so the bamboo is not forced or cracked. The ideal opening at the utaguchi is 20-21mm. This may involve leaving some of the node intact. Keep as much of the root as possible. It may be possible to trim the length at the root to bring the hocchiku closer to a specific pitch. I use a mixture of long rasps and sandpaper on balsa and plumbing pipe to fine tune the opening of the nodes.

picture of tools used to open shakuhachi bore

Tools used to open up the bamboo.

Drilling the holes

The ideal position for holes differs with each piece of bamboo. Initially, follow Nelson Zink's suggestions based on the size of the drill bit. After the holes are drilled, use a digital tuner and take note of each pitch. The ideal tuning has the pitch slightly flat so it only takes a slight opening of the holes to tune exactly. If holes are offset, it may be necessary to tilt the drilling angle on the pillar drill.

Finishing touches

I do not use an utaguchi insert for hocchiku. The utaguchi and root is sealed with a fine sandpaper and oil. I coat the bore with a light oil.

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