Custom Rickard Maple Ridge 12" Banjo with Goat Skin Antiqued Brass Hardware #1878

We are proud to be an authorized Rickard Banjo Dealer.

Handcrafted in Canada by Rickard Banjos, Serial #1878 is a Custom 12" Maple Ridge open-back 5-string banjo that blends old-time aesthetic elegance with modern workshop precision. Finished in a hand-polished catalyzed varnish satin and dressed in full antiqued brass hardware, this instrument is built for players seeking effortless playability and authentic vintage tone.

Warm, Organic Tonal Profile The sound of this Maple Ridge is deeply rooted in traditional clawhammer and old-time folk traditions:

• Genuine Goat Skin Head: Delivers an authentic, warm, and earthy voice with a dry "plunk." It naturally softens high-frequency harshness and enhances mid-range warmth.

• 12" Black Maple Rim: The wider 12-inch pot expands internal air volume, boosting low-end response and producing a deep, full-bodied bass foundation.

• Dobson Tone Ring: The classic flared brass Dobson ring adds open resonance, sweet sustain, and subtle bell-like clarity without weighing down the instrument or overpowering the woodsy character of the maple rim.

• Tonewood & Scale: Solid hard maple neck with a classic Dobson-style heel and a 25.5” scale length.

• Fretboard & Scoop: Premium ebony fretboard featuring an "S" curve frailing scoop for easy playability over the neck joint. On the fretboard, there are inlays of a classic Star and dot markers. 

• Tuning Precision: Fitted with Rickard Cyclone 10:1 ratio tuners in antiqued brass with faux tortoise buttons for smooth, ultra-precise tuning adjustments.  The best in the business. 

• Setup & Frets: Strung with durable gold fretwire and set up with low action (3/32” string height at the 12th fret) for comfortable playing straight out of the case