Hi Jed:

Glad you joined the Banjo forces. May you live long and prosper.

Here is a posting from the banjo newsgroup on where you can get spikes very very cheap.

Subject: ****R.R. Spike Kit w/drill bit $3.50****
Date: Fri, 17 Mar 2000 23:52:08 -0500
From: "Jim Atwater" banjopicker@bellsouth.net
Newsgroups: alt.banjo

The kit contains 10 spikes that are 10/32 long and are .034 in diameter. I twist wire bit that is .032 in diameter. This drills the correct size lead hole. Complete instructions for installing the spikes. $3.50

Optional spiral mini hand drill for using tiny drill bits. This is a jeweler's tool. It's made of brass, about 4 inches long and about 1/4 inches in diameter with a small chuck on one end. Great for drilling small holes. $6.00

Send Check to :

Jim Atwater
174 West Ridge Cir.
Macon, GA. 31210
or Email: banjopicker@bellsouth.net

The March issue of the Banjo Newsletter also has a review of a new book from Mel Bay on playing the 5-string Irish Banjo. The guy uses a finger picking style that should be right up your alley. The book received a very good review.

Good Luck