JohninKansas, thanks for your discussion of the technical characteristics of a bow that can vary so much in so many ways. You're right -- notevery fiddler likes the same bow. The three-way interaction among the hand, the bow, and the fiddle is very important. When violinists shop for a new bow, they take the violin they will use with it most of the time and try the two together.

Kat, I'm glad you had a "born again fiddler" experience with your new bow. Be sure to take care of it well so that it will serve you well for a long time. The most important things are (1) slacken it whenever you put it away and (2) have it rehaired periodically. I have mine rehaired once a year, but the timing on this depends on how often you use it. I hope I'm not insulting you by telling you things you already know. I hope someone who reads this will find it helpful.