Strings for a Gibson 1924 A-1 in "player" condition

Are EJ-74's to heavy for a 1924 A-1 Snakehead/ What do you folks recommend? I've not put strings on a mandolin of this vintage before.

I am more inclined to go just a little lighter. I make up my own sets: 10 1/2 - 14 - 24 - 40.
The closest packaged set from D'addario is EJ 73.
It will probably handle EJ 74, but make sure that the brace behind the sound hole is not loose. I do not advise using anything heavier than the 74's.

I used J-74's on my 1919 A-2 until I decided to switch to J-73's for comfort. The mandolin was fine with the heavier strings, but it turns out that I like the tone better with the lighter ones better.

Always used J74s on my 23/24 A1. No problems.

J74s are perfect for a vintage gibson. The original string gauges were quite close to them too!

I've used them on at least a dozen old gibsons over the years never any problems from the string tension.

The only warning is if you have a loose top brace, existing cracks etc- in that case get that sorted first !!

I use Elixir nano web mediums on all my mandolins. These include some 'teens and 20's Gibson A and F models.

I have been playing Mapes strings on my 1924 Gibson Snakehead A Junior. I like being able to order custom gauges. I have been experimenting with different alloys. Currently have stainless steel on and I am really liking the G and D strings.

As said before, please make sure the top is healthy before going with the J74s. The top and brace are fine on my Snakehead A Junior, but I prefer going with lighter gauge strings..

Thanks to you all, the jury is still out. I'm leaning toward the 73's based on Johns mention of improved comfort, without sacrifice of sound and the peace of mind that I'm not stressing things. Thanks again.

I see nothing wrong with the 74's. That would absolutely be my choice, unless there was some issue with the mandolin. I use them on my 1923 A2 snakehead, always have.

I put 10 ~ 38 on my pre TR '22 A.. 11 ~ 40 on my TR A4 of the same vintage .

;)