Can I use a drum key to tune a banjo head?

If the key fits, screw it. I don't think it will fit, but I can't reach far enough back into my musical history to find a drum, and I'm pretty sure my Banjolin nuts are smaller than drum nuts... read more

No, a drum key won't work. And for good measure, an Autoharp key won't either. Both of these are square. The nuts on a banjo head are hexagonal. It looks as though the fit is a bit narrow for a nut driver or socket, so I recommend a 1/4" or 5/16" wrench. read more

Tightening a Banjo Head - Banjo Tools Banjo Tools for tightening a banjo head. We have banjo head keys and drum keys to tighten the head on your banjo. Including all the common sizes like 1/4 5/16 for 5-string,6-string or 4-string banjos and smaller sizes for beginner banjos too. we even have offer a two way and a three way banjo head wrench. read more

If the bridge is sitting in a valley, it is time to tighten the head tension unless you want a very warm sound. The banjo head is held in place by a tension hoop which sits around the perimeter of the banjo head, and anywhere from 16-24 brackets/j-hooks around the edge, held in place by hex nuts at their base. read more