What is the primary purpose of the Bach Bobcat 179?

The Bach Bobcat 179 is designed to safely remove mouthpieces that have become stuck in the leadpipe of a brass instrument. It provides a controlled mechanical pull to dislodge the mouthpiece without damaging the instrument.

How long does it take to remove a mouthpiece with this tool?

The manufacturer states that the device can remove a stuck mouthpiece in under a minute. The process is quick and requires minimal physical effort due to the screw-driven mechanism.

Is the Bobcat 179 safe for the instrument's leadpipe?

Yes, it is designed to be gentle on both the mouthpiece and the leadpipe. By applying even pressure, it prevents the twisting or pulling forces that can break solder joints or bend the metal tubing.

Which instruments can this tool be used on?

It is a universal tool for brass instruments, including trumpets, cornets, trombones, baritones, and tubas. The adjustable jaws allow it to accommodate various mouthpiece rim sizes.

Why do mouthpieces get stuck in the first place?

Mouthpieces usually get stuck due to being hit on the end while in the instrument, or from a build-up of dirt and corrosion. Extreme temperature changes can also cause the metal to contract and seize.

Who is the Bach Bobcat 179 most suitable for?

It is ideal for school band directors, music teachers, and brass ensemble leaders. It is also a valuable tool for any brass player who performs frequently and wants to handle their own basic maintenance.

Does the tool require any special assembly?

No, the Bach Bobcat arrives as a complete, ready-to-use unit. It consists of a one-piece frame with adjustable screws that are manipulated by hand or with the provided levers.

Can I use pliers instead of a mouthpiece extractor?

Using pliers is highly discouraged as they can easily scar the silver or gold plating of a mouthpiece and provide uneven torque that can ruin a leadpipe. The Bobcat 179 is a purpose-built tool that avoids these risks.

How much does the Bach Bobcat 179 typically cost?

The typical price for the Bach Bobcat 179 is approximately £54.00. This is considered a cost-effective investment compared to the price of professional leadpipe repair.

Is the tool portable?

Yes, the Bobcat is relatively small and lightweight. It can easily be stored in a rehearsal room cabinet or a technician's mobile repair kit.

How do you maintain the extractor itself?

The tool requires very little maintenance, though occasionally applying a small amount of machine oil to the threads of the adjustment screws can keep the operation smooth over many years of use.

Does using this tool void my instrument warranty?

Using a professional-grade tool like the Bach Bobcat as intended should not void a warranty. In fact, many manufacturers prefer the use of proper extractors over amateur attempts at removal.

Gear article

Bach Bobcat 179 Mouthpiece Extractor

The Bach Bobcat 179 is a specialised maintenance tool designed for the safe removal of stuck mouthpieces from brass instruments. Manufactured by the Vincent Bach Corporation, it is widely used in educational and ensemble settings to prevent damage to leadpipes and mouthpieces during extraction.

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Overview

The Bach Bobcat 179 Mouthpiece Extractor is an essential utility tool for brass players, educators, and technicians. Its primary function is to dislodge mouthpieces that have become wedged in an instrument's leadpipe due to pressure, corrosion, or lack of maintenance. The device is designed to be portable and high-leverage, providing a controlled method for extraction that avoids the risks associated with manual pulling or using improper household tools.

Design and Operation

The Bobcat features a sturdy metal frame with adjustable jaws that grip the rim of the mouthpiece. By turning the integrated screws, the tool applies even, axial pressure against the receiver of the instrument. This mechanical advantage allows for the removal of even the most stubborn mouthpieces within approximately one minute. The design ensures that force is distributed evenly, which is critical for protecting the delicate soldering and thin metal of the leadpipe.

Application and Suitability

This tool is particularly suited for schools, marching bands, and community orchestras where multiple students or players share equipment. In these environments, mouthpieces are frequently jammed by beginners or during transit. Because it is gentle on the instrument's finish and structure, it is preferred by band directors over makeshift methods that could lead to costly repairs.

Comparison to Alternatives

While some players attempt to remove stuck mouthpieces using pliers or hammers, these methods often result in 'crimp' marks, broken solder joints, or twisted leadpipes. The Bach Bobcat 179 provides a non-marring, professional alternative. Unlike larger bench-mounted extractors, the Bobcat is compact enough to fit in a tool kit or desk drawer, making it the standard choice for on-site maintenance compared to general hardware alternatives.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Bach Bobcat 179?: The Bach Bobcat 179 is designed to safely remove mouthpieces that have become stuck in the leadpipe of a brass instrument. It provides a controlled mechanical pull to dislodge the mouthpiece without damaging the instrument.
How long does it take to remove a mouthpiece with this tool?: The manufacturer states that the device can remove a stuck mouthpiece in under a minute. The process is quick and requires minimal physical effort due to the screw-driven mechanism.
Is the Bobcat 179 safe for the instrument's leadpipe?: Yes, it is designed to be gentle on both the mouthpiece and the leadpipe. By applying even pressure, it prevents the twisting or pulling forces that can break solder joints or bend the metal tubing.
Which instruments can this tool be used on?: It is a universal tool for brass instruments, including trumpets, cornets, trombones, baritones, and tubas. The adjustable jaws allow it to accommodate various mouthpiece rim sizes.
Why do mouthpieces get stuck in the first place?: Mouthpieces usually get stuck due to being hit on the end while in the instrument, or from a build-up of dirt and corrosion. Extreme temperature changes can also cause the metal to contract and seize.
Who is the Bach Bobcat 179 most suitable for?: It is ideal for school band directors, music teachers, and brass ensemble leaders. It is also a valuable tool for any brass player who performs frequently and wants to handle their own basic maintenance.
Does the tool require any special assembly?: No, the Bach Bobcat arrives as a complete, ready-to-use unit. It consists of a one-piece frame with adjustable screws that are manipulated by hand or with the provided levers.
Can I use pliers instead of a mouthpiece extractor?: Using pliers is highly discouraged as they can easily scar the silver or gold plating of a mouthpiece and provide uneven torque that can ruin a leadpipe. The Bobcat 179 is a purpose-built tool that avoids these risks.
How much does the Bach Bobcat 179 typically cost?: The typical price for the Bach Bobcat 179 is approximately £54.00. This is considered a cost-effective investment compared to the price of professional leadpipe repair.
Is the tool portable?: Yes, the Bobcat is relatively small and lightweight. It can easily be stored in a rehearsal room cabinet or a technician's mobile repair kit.
How do you maintain the extractor itself?: The tool requires very little maintenance, though occasionally applying a small amount of machine oil to the threads of the adjustment screws can keep the operation smooth over many years of use.
Does using this tool void my instrument warranty?: Using a professional-grade tool like the Bach Bobcat as intended should not void a warranty. In fact, many manufacturers prefer the use of proper extractors over amateur attempts at removal.