The String Centre Chinrest Wrench

There are two models of this wrench: One matches the picture here in the JSI listing. A picture of the other is sold by Little Music Centre and costs more - the only reason I didn't choose that one. But based on the package label JSI sells both and feels free to substitute.Fortunately the only difference is the back end of one is flat while the other is 'beaded'. Both models have loop holes large enough for a string or keychain. The beaded end may sit more easily with other items on a key chain - but I wouldn't recommend using it that way.The inserting tip of the wrench is cut flush, with a circular edge that can still mar a finish. I recommend gently rounding it off with a small file and/or sandpaper. You don't have to take much metal off and there's no danger of affecting the functionality.This tool isn't 100% foolproof and it's still possible to slip and damage an instrument finish. I find the trick is to always hold the wrench lengthwise, parallel to the instrument top, even if that requires additional turns to avoid contacting the instrument end pin.If you hold the wrench perpendicular to the top or at some oblique angle thinking you can make faster, wider turns, that's when it's very possible for the tip to slip out of the bracket hole and contact the instrument. I sit and hold a violin or viola with the scroll facing the floor, gently between my legs, allowing me to work with two hands and control the chinrest while it's loose.Bottom Line: The chrome won't rust, the tip won't bend or break off, and the wrench should last a lifetime. Best of all, I can toss my trusty paper clip which has nicked its share of finishes over the years.The wrench also makes a great conversation piece for non-string players - I tell people it's my 'cuticle pusher'!

What a lifesaver. Any violinist or violist needs this. I bought an 1790's English violin that was equipped with a horrible Strad-Guarneri hybrid chin rest. I had to get a standard Guarneri to replace it, and I didn't want to try any other tool for the fitting and risk scratching the violin. The first photo of the violin with the bow includes it equipped with the original chin rest. The second photo of just the violin is with the new chin rest. The deep, flamed scoop of the first froze it against my jaw in the most awkward, unyielding place. Chin rest choice is crucial, and this wrench is a necessity to be able to take them on and off safely.

I switched to a center mount not long ago, and I needed this tool because the paper clip suggestions failed miserably. This tool makes it so simply to loosen your chin rest and then to tighten it again when you're putting your new (or the same) chin rest back on. Who wants to pay a luthier to do something this simple? I don't. This tool makes it perfectly easy. Youtube has a number of very good videos on how to do this--the best one is by a luthier who explains it very well and shows exactly how to do everything.

Excellent product! Very handy and much safer tool for changing violin chin rests. Prevents the risk of scratching your violin.

It received it fast and in good shape. I am happy with this chinrest wrench.

It connects right to my badge holder, so it is always handy.

Solid tool with a very well angled working pin. Recommended.

Perfect for securing and removing a chin rest.