This was the gadget that got it all started for us back in 1974, and to this day it's STILL the only fifth string capo worth putting on a banjo. It operates on a lever principle, not a spring, so it provides sufficient pressure to fret the string without muting the tone. It slides on a slim, dovetailed bar which mounts flush to the neck, making it sturdy and unobtrusive.

Originally, our fifth string capo bar was eight inches long, and attached to the banjo neck with three mounting screws. About three years ago we remodeled the bar, a change which I'd considered for many years. I've noticed that I never capo the fifth string any higher than the tenth fret (this would go along with the regular capo being at the fifth fret) ...there simply is always a better alternative to capoing any higher than this. So for my own banjo, I made a custom bar which was much shorter (5.75"). Now we've made the shorter bar our standard size. Besides taking up less space on the neck (for you fellow thumb-wrappers), it offers the additional advantage of using only TWO mounting screws instead of three.

If you feel that you want to be able to capo all the way up to the thirteenth fret, the old eight inch, three-screw bar is still available as a special order item. The price is the same, but there sometimes can be a delay, since we do not always keep the old style long bars in stock.

INSTALLATION

Most places that work on instruments can mount it for you in just a few minutes. Or if you are handy with tools, and not shy about working on your banjo, you might want to install it yourself.

Expert luthier Frank Ford has provided an excellent description of the proper installation at his website. Even if you have a pro install your capo, it would still be helpful to refer them to Frank's description, since he has considerable experience at installing these capos. I also suggest taking a look at his page regarding fifth string nuts.