Nut File Size?

[Rockyjohnstone]

Is .002 over string gauge too large? I would tend not too think so, but thought I'd check.

I wouldn't hesitate on a guitar, but these dang mandolins can be fussy.

[David Houchens]

No

[Rockyjohnstone]

Good answer. Thanks Bryce

[lenf12]

The width should be just fine at .002" over string gauge. Do however be careful of the depth of the nut slots. That's where most folks run into trouble. How would I know that?

Len B.
Clearwater, FL

[John Kelly]

Rule of thumb for the slot depths is that the wound strings have a slot which is half the diameter of the strings, while the plain strings have a slot as deep as the diameter. This usually means trimming off the nut for height above the slot to get the correct depth - you do not want to go too low with the slot as this causes buzzing.