String Breakage

[LedHead]

I'm Currently Using 11's on my 1980 Gretsch Bst 5000 and My custom made telecaster, and I am using .73 size dunlop max grip nylon flex picks, i play for about 2-3 hours in an average day, and yet im still having problems with frequent string breaks, i play hard rocks stuff like zeppelin and i shred in solos, and i was wondering if there is anything that i can do to increase my string life, because currently my strings last 2-6 days which by any standard is rediculous, so i would appreciate any ideas on how to increase my string life.

 

[ant_riv]

First I would check the bridge for sharp edges where each string contacts the bridge. That is the most common place to prematurely cause a string to break.

If this isn't it, pictures would help.

I hope you get it figured out!

 

[LedHead]

well the thing is that the gretsch has a roller bridge, and the tele has the 6 individual rounded barrel saddles, and its not always the same string that breaks its either high e, b, or g

 

[longan]

Try another string brand. I use d'addario .11s and they last me a few weeks. And I'm known as hammer-strummer among friends

 

[LedHead]

Well Im Using Ernies Right Now And They Sound Good And Everyone I Know Who Uses Them Doesnt Have A Problem With Them

 

[River]

I'd have my guitars looked at by a pro. I use EB and Curt Mangan 9-46s, and get to strumming and bending pretty damned hard. I play hours a day and haven't broken a string while playing in pretty much forever.

 

[River]

Oh, you didn't say where they're breaking. Maybe you have highly acidic skin oil. Are the strings tarnishing badly where you bend hard, then breaking there? Or do they break at the nut/bridge/tail piece?

 

[allbusinessjoe]

I broke my first string (high E) a short while back at the bridge. Anyone ever file the V-notch to round it out a bit so it's a bit smoother like a Fender? Anyone know how it would effect tone?

Edit: I just did a search.

http://www.mylespaul.com/forums/custom-shop/29724-bridge-saddle-filing.html

 

[christophervolume]

I'd have my guitars looked at by a pro. I use EB and Curt Mangan 9-46s, and get to strumming and bending pretty damned hard. I play hours a day and haven't broken a string while playing in pretty much forever.

wait til you play with a drummer with a huge kick drum like i do.

 

[LedHead]

well my strings do tarnish quickly like after 2 hrs they arent shiny and they look like theyve been on there for a week, but actually despite that they break at the bridge

 

[zontar]

Graphite on the bridge, graphite on the nut--it helps...

 

[LedHead]

Thanks Ill Try That