Build Diary of an MMB-5

[Simon Barden]

I've never used nut files for bass nuts. I'm not actually sure that I've seen any to buy and I have looked around. A small round needle file is all I've ever used (normally the pointy end). I think you'll need to work on the slots with the nut installed (the top E looks a bit higher than the bottom B slot), so you may find a round needle file easier.

[RalphH]

I've never used nut files for bass nuts. I'm not actually sure that I've seen any to buy and I have looked around. A small round needle file is all I've ever used (normally the pointy end). I think you'll need to work on the slots with the nut installed (the top E looks a bit higher than the bottom B slot), so you may find a round needle file easier.

Yep, I found it hard to get quality round files of the appropriate sizes, hence the abrasive paper route.
The best thing about the "wrap the wire" technique is that you can make almost any diameter "file" required, and the finish is quite smooth.
All the slots will probably need a tweak once the nut is installed; I was cautious with depth as did not want to be in the same position as the stock nut placed me in. I left a good 0.8-1mm extra height overall.