Don Smith, German Model Bass Bow- Kansas City circa 1975-1985

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We have a fine bass bow made by Don Smith. Don worked for Kanas City Strings back in the 1970’s to 1990 and made bows. This is a fine German model bass bow all handmade. The tip is sterling silver and gives a great feel in the upper portion of the bow, especially for playing off the string articulations and giving the player excellent control when playing fast passages. I love the head on the bow so much. It reminds me of a French tip – almost a bulldog type of nose, turned up and very masculine. The bow is pernambuco, choice dark wood, with a sterling silver ferule and tip. The stick section is round and does not have a winding or leather thumb. The bow was made this way originally and actually feels fine to play. The ferule is sterling silver, and the slide is a white polymer that will not wear, not pearl. The ebony end screw button is slightly tapered towards the end and is 5.0 cm long. The bow is firm to play and has a camber that begins early after the head. This is a handsome bow, ready for another professional player.

Stick Length is 77.0 cm or 30 1/2 inches
Playing Hair Length is 59.0 cm or 23 1/4 inches
Weight fully haired 146.6 grams