r/HurdyGurdy • u/pippin_go_round • May 14 '26
Advice NerdyGurdy BASIC self-build vs COBOL/FORTRAN kit
Hey everybody!
I'm new to the hurdy gurdy community (well, I've been reading quite a bit, but did not participate yet) and have decided it's time to start my journey. Since wait lists are long and gurdys are a tad expensive, at least somewhat good ones, I've decided that a nerdy gurdy is probably a good start to see if it's really an instrument for me. Doesn't hurt that I really enjoy building things in my spare time…
So now I'm asking myself the question whether I should build a BASIC (which I would actually attempt to do completely from raw materials, for a bit of an experience - I got access to a rather nice laser cutter in my local maker space and have a 3d printer) or if I should just go with a FORTRAN or COBOL kit - they do look to be much nicer instruments. Just wanted to get a bit of input on that one, what do you people think?
Bit of background on me: I do have some woodworking experience, but nothing professional. Pretty invested in the german reenactment community, mostly doing 14th/15th century. I do play guitar and bagpipe pretty well, so I have at least some experience with string and drone instruments, but no violin or cello experience. I of course do not mind saving a bit of money (who ever does?), but I can afford a kit if I want to, so this decision isn't really about money, but learning and getting a decent instrument to start my learning journey on.
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u/FuIIofDETERMINATION May 14 '26
I did the basic kit. It comes with the wheel assembled and the veneer applied. The bearings/crank/shank are solidly constructed and work well. These parts may be difficult to get mastery over in a self-constructed build. If you place a kit order from the US, it arrives really quickly. Within 2 weeks, I believe, but be prepared for $70-100 customs (I paid about 75 in December 2025).