Pianotech

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I've had the Fujan (ball handle, 10" tube) for a very long time. Truly excellent. I can't comment on the other brand.

------------------------------
Patrick Draine
Billerica MA
978-663-9690
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I got an Apex and didn't like that all the weight is at the business end of the lever, something the maker touts. It pretty much forces one to reach all the way down to the base of the lever to switch pins. I actually prefer the balance to be more toward the center as I can switch pins with shorter hand movements. A few inches times 220 adds up. The Apex is quite extreme in this, though I suppose most composite levers will have this tendency unless one adds a counter weight. 
I returned it and Apex was gracious enough to give me a full refund. 
I use Watanabe style "stationary", meaning non extension, levers that are pretty plain Jane. They are slightly weighted towards the front. A heavier one for regular work and a lighter weight, slightly shorter one for concert tuning where I'm not expecting to move the pins too much.

------------------------------
Steven Rosenthal
Honolulu HI
808-521-7129
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Ditto on the post by Patrick D. I also agree with Steven R. on his comments regarding the weight at the head of the Shark - I haven't tried the Shark, but I often think to myself when moving my Fujan around that it is so nice to have such a light tuning lever. And I can't imagine using a lever without some sort of ball on the end.

BUT! I think both of these products offer some sort of trial period. IMHO, the ONLY way to make your choice wisely would be to order both of them and use both. Then you can make the best decision for you!

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

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-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 2/18/2021 11:39:00 AM
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: RE: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I didn't like the Levitan lever. It's clumsy, and harder to move around in sections. If memory serves, you occasionally have to use it left handed in the top treble.

My recommendation is to learn to tune left-handed. I know, I know...it's hard. I *had* to learn it because of the problems with the right shoulder. I'm almost as fast left-handed, when using RCT. Aurally...eh, can do a decent job, but it's slower.


------------------------------
John Formsma, RPT
New Albany MS
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-18-2021 11:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I used the C lever for a couple of years...I don't use it anymore.  It is really easy to be ambi with the c lever, and I was switching back and forth constantly, depending on position. Its quite easy to do the treble righty. Actually, the closer you get to the treble case arm the easier it is to lever your fingers off the arm to the bottom of the lever handle. So yep, it works without walking around to the treble side of the case. You do have to get the feel of using the C lever, but that's true of any lever.


------------------------------
Jim Ialeggio
grandpianosolutions.com
Shirley, MA
978 425-9026
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-18-2021 11:39
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 2/18/2021 11:39:00 AM
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: RE: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I use the Levitan lever almost exclusively, Terry. I can sit in front of the piano to tune C88. After letting people try out my lever, my observation is that they don’t understand that a different technnique from a conventional lever is required, i.e., there is no need to compensate for the inevitable bending of the tuning pin that happens with the conventional lever. Another important feature is the great mechanical advantage, something that I appreciate more and more as I get older.

Yours,

Bob Anderson, RPT
Tucson, AZ


Original Message:
Sent: 2/18/2021 11:39:00 AM
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: RE: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I meant to add that I need to remove the fallboard in the case of the Yamaha CFX and that the odd piano, like a S&S Duo-Art, requires a conventional lever.

Bob Anderson, RPT
Tucson, AZ


Original Message:
Sent: 2/18/2021 11:39:00 AM
From: Terrence Farrell
Subject: RE: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Question for Matteo Cudo and Eric Marler - and anyone else that has used the Levitan "C" tuning hammer on grand pianos. I love my Fujan tuning lever in most situations. However, I like to (need to!) sit on the treble end/side of the piano when tuning the upper-most treble section - and I do when there is enough room to fit the bench on the side of the piano. However, every once in a while, someone has their piano positioned with the treble side of the piano up against a wall or something else that prevents me from migrating over to the treble end/side of the piano to tune up there. It is rather difficult for me to tune the high treble on a grand when sitting in front of the piano. Possible solutions include (I have asked about this before) tuning left handed (Ahhhhh! That feels like I am tuning left handed!!!), or perhaps using an impact lever (have thought about it - just haven't pulled the trigger yet for a Reyburn impact lever).

But what using the Levitan up in the high treble of a grand when I can't get around to the side of the piano? I can envision that might just work. Has anyone used the Levitan right-handed in the high treble of a grand while sitting on front of the piano? If so, please share your experience.

------------------------------
Terry Farrell
Farrell Piano Service, Inc.
Brandon, Florida
terry@farrellpiano.com
813-684-3505
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 09:13
From: Matteo Crudo
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I haven't tried the Apex, But the Fujan is pretty much king.  Once you try it you won't go back .   I upgraded from the Levitan hammer to the Fujan.  The control, feel, rigidness, weight is all spot on.  So much so, that nearly most of our SF chapter uses one.  Also look at 88onpitch.  These are custom levers.  Randy can make it to your specs.  i.e. more weight at the ball, more weight in the middle...no ball, Long , short, etc.  Best of luck!

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-Matt Crudo, RPT 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 2/15/2021 10:43:00 PM
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

The Shark uses legacy tips and heads-I don't see that as a "feature." The Fujan's head is a beefy, light alloy, and takes Jahn tips. It makes no sense to have a carbon fiber handle if the heads and tips are still old-style flexible steel. It's like putting wagon wheels on a Tesla. Also, isn't the Shark shorter than the Fujan?

The Levitan Classic is pretty darn good. The only reason I sold it to a fellow chapter member was that I got the Fujan. The Levitan was just a little too short for some problematic pianos with tight pins/rendering.

------------------------------
Scott Cole, RPT
rvpianotuner.com
Talent, OR
(541-601-9033
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Fujan for sure.

I started with the ball end, but now use the straight handle. You could get both to see which you prefer? The ball end might be better for verticals, while the straight end I definitely prefer for grand tuning. However, for verticals, I use the Reyburn Cyberhammer.

------------------------------
John Formsma, RPT
New Albany MS
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

My personal choice in tuning levers is my Charles Faulk. It's well-balanced, light and with the choice of woods looks great too. I also carry a home-made WonderWand, which is basically a steel rod, threaded at each end with a turned ball on the handle end. As I don't want to change the tip on the Faulk for some situations (thin wall, #2 tip and longer reach) I'm covered for all situations. ​

------------------------------
John Musselwhite, RPT
Calgary, AB Canada
www.musselwhite.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I vote for the Fujan 👍 With extensions mine is 17" long and I recently got another 2" extension to make it 19". Used the full 19" last week on a piano that doesn't render very well. It worked great and saved my arm & wrist!

The only downside is that the head is a little big for pins at the end of some bass sections so you need to have an extra hammer that is conventional. Doesn't need to be anything special, just with a head small enough to fit in tight spaces.

------------------------------
"That Tuning Guy"
Scott Kerns
www.thattuningguy.com
Tunic OnlyPure, TuneLab & PianoMeter user
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I bought a Fujan a couple years ago and also like it very much. I have the ball/pear end on it. I also added a little weight in the ball end, but wish I added more. NBD. Additionally I have a golf club handle wrap all the distance of the tube. I didn't like the cold smooth feel on my hand. Now it's just right. 😊

If I had not just bought the Fujan I doubtlessly would have bought the Reyburn Rigid...even more money, but wow! 

But I like my Fujan (standard length). 

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 11:01
From: Scott Kerns
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I vote for the Fujan 👍 With extensions mine is 17" long and I recently got another 2" extension to make it 19". Used the full 19" last week on a piano that doesn't render very well. It worked great and saved my arm & wrist!

The only downside is that the head is a little big for pins at the end of some bass sections so you need to have an extra hammer that is conventional. Doesn't need to be anything special, just with a head small enough to fit in tight spaces.

------------------------------
"That Tuning Guy"
Scott Kerns
www.thattuningguy.com
Tunic OnlyPure, TuneLab & PianoMeter user

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

I encourage you to also consider a Faulk hammer. For the past two & half years, I've been using a 14" Faulk hammer, and I love it.  The premium Itoshin tip, imported from Japan, is exceptional. The website says that it is now equipped on every hammer.

------------------------------
David Bauguess
Grand Junction CO
970-257-1750
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 11:15
From: Peter Grey
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I bought a Fujan a couple years ago and also like it very much. I have the ball/pear end on it. I also added a little weight in the ball end, but wish I added more. NBD. Additionally I have a golf club handle wrap all the distance of the tube. I didn't like the cold smooth feel on my hand. Now it's just right. 😊

If I had not just bought the Fujan I doubtlessly would have bought the Reyburn Rigid...even more money, but wow!

But I like my Fujan (standard length).

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 11:01
From: Scott Kerns
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I vote for the Fujan 👍 With extensions mine is 17" long and I recently got another 2" extension to make it 19". Used the full 19" last week on a piano that doesn't render very well. It worked great and saved my arm & wrist!

The only downside is that the head is a little big for pins at the end of some bass sections so you need to have an extra hammer that is conventional. Doesn't need to be anything special, just with a head small enough to fit in tight spaces.

------------------------------
"That Tuning Guy"
Scott Kerns
www.thattuningguy.com
Tunic OnlyPure, TuneLab & PianoMeter user

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Thank you all very much for taking the time to respond to my inquiry! All responses were very helpful.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 18:22
From: David Bauguess
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I encourage you to also consider a Faulk hammer. For the past two & half years, I've been using a 14" Faulk hammer, and I love it.  The premium Itoshin tip, imported from Japan, is exceptional. The website says that it is now equipped on every hammer.

------------------------------
David Bauguess
Grand Junction CO
970-257-1750

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 11:15
From: Peter Grey
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I bought a Fujan a couple years ago and also like it very much. I have the ball/pear end on it. I also added a little weight in the ball end, but wish I added more. NBD. Additionally I have a golf club handle wrap all the distance of the tube. I didn't like the cold smooth feel on my hand. Now it's just right. 😊

If I had not just bought the Fujan I doubtlessly would have bought the Reyburn Rigid...even more money, but wow!

But I like my Fujan (standard length).

Pwg

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
603-686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 02-16-2021 11:01
From: Scott Kerns
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

I vote for the Fujan 👍 With extensions mine is 17" long and I recently got another 2" extension to make it 19". Used the full 19" last week on a piano that doesn't render very well. It worked great and saved my arm & wrist!

The only downside is that the head is a little big for pins at the end of some bass sections so you need to have an extra hammer that is conventional. Doesn't need to be anything special, just with a head small enough to fit in tight spaces.

------------------------------
"That Tuning Guy"
Scott Kerns
www.thattuningguy.com
Tunic OnlyPure, TuneLab & PianoMeter user

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

​​​I like my Fujan...

------------------------------
William Hocherl
Altoona PA
814-943-0759
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------

Fujan is carbon fiber, aluminum (stiffer than steel) joints/head, and steel tip (I think). I wouldn't want to go back to the super heavy "rubber" core (steel...) tuning levers. 

I have the Fujan #2 Jahn extended tip with a 10⁰ head and 11" length with 2" and 4" extension tubes and straight handle . That gives me the option of 11" 13" 15" and 17". All I ever use is 13" and 17" options (17" mostly on pianos with stiff pins and 20c corrections).​

------------------------------
Cobrun Sells
cobrun94@yahoo.com
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 02-15-2021 22:43
From: Eric Marler
Subject: "Shark" or Fujan Tuning Hammer?

Dear PTG Piano Technicians,

Hello! I currently use a Levitan tuning hammer but am wanting to upgrade to either the APEX "Shark" or the Fujan tuning hammer and am wondering if any of you have tried them both, and if so, which you prefer and why. They are both expensive so I want to be sure I'm choosing the best one. Additionally, if your preference is the Fujan, did you choose the ball hammer or the straight hammer?

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughts!

Sincerely,

Eric Marler, M.M.

------------------------------
Eric Marler
Nampa ID
208-477-9481
------------------------------