Deering introduces Clawgrass 2 banjo

Deering Clawgrass No. 2 banjoDeering Banjo Company has introduced a new edition of their signature Mark Johnson Clawgrass model, designed to offer the same tone and playability of the original, but at a price point more accessible to the average picker.

The Clawgrass No. 2 uses the same high-grade rim and tone ring as Mark’s original Deering, but without the intricate wood carving, metal engraving, and gold plating that put its price up near $15 K.

Mark’s idea with the Clawgrass model was to create a banjo with the sort of wide fingerboard ideal for clawhammer style, but with volume sufficient to cut through a bluegrass band. It utilizes an 11” head and a full-size tone ring, but in an open back banjo.

Johnson gave it a run-through at the Winter NAMM show in January, along with his music mate, Emory Lester.

 

The Clawgrass No. 2 sells for $4475 with a hard shell case and a lifetime warranty.

Additional photos and specifications can be found on the Deering site.

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About the Author

John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2004 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.