Description

Exploring tone, challenging norms

At Pisgah Banjos, we’ve always believed in the spirit of exploration AND in keeping traditional music open and accessible. That’s why we decided to build this one-of-a-kind prototype entirely from American hickory. We wanted to know what it would sound like and we also wanted to document its use in modern day before a potential attempt to patent it by a larger banjo company.

In recent years, large banjo manufacturers have begun filing patents on tone woods, attempting to claim ownership over materials that should belong to the entire community of builders and musicians. We think that’s as ridiculous as it is dangerous to the future of traditional instrument making. You can read more about our thoughts on that in our article:
 “Why patents on tone woods are ridiculous”

As for the banjo? Hickory blew us away. Coming in at only 5lbs, 10oz, this banjo offers a crisp, punchy tone with excellent volume—bright without being brittle, warm without losing clarity. The entire instrument is built with hickory, from the 12″ tone rim to the Neck, fretboard and heel cap. It’s paired with aged brass hardware, a Happy Hollow goat skin head, and a slotted headstock for that classic old-time aesthetic.  This banjo was also made entirely out of the same large piece billet which is another reason that makes the banjo very unique.

We made two identical prototypes and kept this one in the shop for a while to admire its beauty. We are now making room for more banjos and this one is ready for its new home!  This is a great opportunity to own something truly unique….When have you ever seen another all hickory banjo? This banjo is backed by our money back guarantee AND limited Lifetime Warranty!

Features:

• 12″ steam-bent hickory tone rim
• Solid hickory neck, fretboard, and appointments
• Decorative striping on fretboard, heel cap, and under rim cap
• Happy Hollow goat skin head
• NEW Thumb Rest neck profile
• NEW Frailing Tension Hoop
• S-scoop
• Aged brass hardware
• Slotted headstock
• 25.5″ scale length
• Built and documented to challenge tonewood gatekeeping
• Handcrafted in Asheville, NC

From: $3,695.00