Keemer Posted June 1, 2020 Share Posted June 1, 2020 I recently got a 1956-ES 295. I love the guitar but it has the original small frets. At first I didn't think it would be a problem, but I am finding that it is really hampering my playing style (mostly blues, lots of bending). I keep going back and forth on whether I should change the frets. Anyone have any experience with this? Also, Does anyone know what frets were on the reissue Memphis ES 295's that we're available a few years ago? Thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Twang Gang Posted June 1, 2020 Share Posted June 1, 2020 There is a description of the 2015 re-issue of the '52 ES 295 on the website, but it does not specify which frets were used. Not sure what you mean by "small" frets? Are they too short? Or too narrow? or maybe both. At any rate I would play it a little longer and see if you adjust to them and if not have it refretted. No use having a cool vintage guitar that is not comfortable to play. You're probably not old enough to remember, but back in 1956 nobody was bending all that much so guitars weren't really set up for it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
merciful-evans Posted June 2, 2020 Share Posted June 2, 2020 I am imagining you mean narrow frets? And you are used to jumbo frets? I have guitars with both kinds, but never experienced any problem with bends. I concur with Twang Gang. Stick with it and get accustomed to it. If you do get a re-fret: Its your guitar, but personally I would try to keep a guitar of that vintage as original as possible (ie: original style frets). It would likely make a difference to potential buyers if you ever wanted to sell it on. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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