I have a Fender FB-54. I've managed to get it setup quite well, but the nut has always been a problem. The 3rd string has always had a buzz to it caused by the slot in the nut not being cut properly. I've done temp fixes like putting paper in there, etc, but I would like to go ahead and replace the cheap plastic nut with a bone nut from Stewmac and fix the problem permanently. (Would also like to lower the action at the nut slightly at the same time and enjoy the better sound quality of a bone nut.)
I have a cheap needle file set, that is not small enough to do the job. I used the smallest file to file my current nut, which fixed the problem to an extent, but it was not a fine enough cut to completely eliminate the problem. It doesn't have a big loud buzz now, but it has a tin sound to it when plucked. (The slot is too wide.)
Anyway, long story short, here's my question to those of you experienced in cutting new slots on a blank nut: Would I be able to do the job for all 4 string slots with the double-edged nut file size 0.012" / 0.020", or do I need more sizes to get the job done?
I'm trying to figure out if it's worth it to order the blank nut, nut file and glue, plus shipping from Stewmac and do the job myself, or just pay a luthier to cut me a new nut and install it. It's not an expensive banjo, but I won't be able to afford a better one for at least a year.
Thoughts?