BJS Bar options, descriptions and selection.

Bar Options

Everyone is different and we all like options. For this reason, BJS Bars offers the widest selection of standard bar sizes available anywhere. We offer diameters of 3/4", 13/16", 7/8", 15/16", and 1", and lengths ranging from 2 13/16" for smaller diameters, through 3 3/4" for the larger diameters.

When shopping for bars, you may find them listed as 10 String, 12 String, etc. These designations are provided as a general reference only. Please know that many players deviate from these classifications as a matter of preference.... So by no means should they limit your decision when choosing a bar.

Beginners making a bar selection will have three decisions to make. Diameter, Length, and Weight It will help to begin with some point of reference..... an old bar you have tried, recommendations from an experienced player or instructor, or follow the classifications of a 10 String bar for a 10 String instrument and so on.

Many players want to feel the butt of the bar fit comfortably in the pocket of their hand, which is created where the index and middle fingers meet. From this position, the length of your fingers may suggest a longer or shorter bar length. Typically, the nose of the bar should extend beyond the end of your index finger. The size of your hands, and your ability to grip and hold the bar can also be a factor. A larger diameter might be easier to grip for someone with large hands. A heavier bar might require less downward effort from the hand and wrist. From another perspective, bigger and heavier bars can feel sluggish and slow. Smaller, lighter bars can be easier to maneuver and control up and down the neck. In the end it will come down to feel and personal preference. And this may change as you play and progress.

If you want to discuss your options, feel free to contact me
via email: bjsbars@hotmail.com
or call: (731) 414-4038.

Below you will find a general description of the different bar categories. When shopping for bars, you will find specific information for each bar by selecting on that bar.

3/4" Diameter Bars

3/4" bars are used predominately by lap steel players, and dobro players. You will find them listed in a standard length of 2 7/8" and in two different nose configurations. The Jerry Byrd version has a tapered, somewhat pointed nose made popular by Jerry Byrd himself. The other is a rounded nose with no point.

7/8" Diameter Bars

The 7/8" bar is still the most popular bar diameter for pedal steel players. It is offered in the following lengths... 3" for lap steel players who might want a bit more heft, 3 3/8" 10 String, 3 9/16" 12 String, and a new offering of 3 3/4" 12 String Long.

The 7/8" bars are offered in standard weights and the John Hughey lite weight version.

1" Diameter Bars

The 1" bar is a big bar, and in its standard weight is heavy. However, it has a loyal following of players who want the larger feel and heavier weight. Players that us 'em, Love 'em. It is available 3 3/8" 10 String, 3 9/16" 12 String, and a new offering of 3 3/4" 12 String Long.

The 1" bars are offered in standard weights, the John Hughey lite weight version, and the soon to be offered Super Lite version. The lite bar versions can be especially helpful for someone who wants a larger diameter without the added weight.

13/16" Diameter Bars

The 13/16" bar is a new offering and is intended to fill the gap from 3/4" to 7/8". I have built a few of these at special request and have decided to make them available as a standard offering. Like the Jerry Byrd bar, their nose is slightly tapered to a point. The taper allows for easier use of the nose when playing single note passages with only the nose of the bar.

Offered in several lengths, this bar will be a good fit for lap steel players wanting a bit more heft, as well as pedal steel players wanting something slightly smaller. It will be offered in the following lengths... 2 13/16", 3", 3 3/16" and 3 3/8".

Offered in standard weight only.

15/16" Diameter Bars

The 15/16" diameter bars are quite popular and run a close second to the 7/8" bar. They were developed at the persistent request of Jay Dee Maness and John Hughey, who wanted a slightly larger bar without having to go to the 1" bar. They are offered in lengths of 3 3/8" 10 String, 3 9/16" 12 String, and the new length of 3 3/4" 12 String Long.

They are offered in standard weights, the John Hughey lite version, and the soon to be offered Super Lite version.

John Hughey and Super Lite

At some point weight can become an issue for anyone. Wether due to dexterity, weakened grip, or the hindrance of speed, weight can be a factor. And if you like the feel of a larger bar, why let the added weight be a drawback. The lite bars are an answer to that issue.

The John Hughey style bar came about when John asked for his standard 15/16" 12 String bar to be built to the same weight as a standard 7/8" bar. This was accomplished by taking a cut of metal out of the center axis, down the length of the bar. This became John's favorite bar and thus named in his honor.

In recent years, requests have been made for even lighter bars, especially in the 15/16" and 1" bar families. The Super Lite takes an additional ounce or more of weight out of the big bars. If you want a big bar, don't let the weight stop you.

Some of your favorite players using BJS Bars

Matt Park, London

Tommy Dodd, Atlanta

Jay Wilson, Winnipeg