[Jukebox-list] OT: The shape of the playing tip of steel needles.

[Doug Duncan]

Dear People,

This weekend I acquired a new toy, a wind up gramophone (phonograph) 
called a Dulceola. This is of the hidden horn type in a floorstanding 
cabinet. Volume control is by opening and closing the doors in the 
front. It winds up ok and runs and the speed is variable although I have 
not yet checked it for any accuracy. The only thing not evidently 
working is the brake but that can be looked at another day.

I took notice of the discussion earlier about using steel needles one 
time only for one side and whilst I've ordered some nice new needles  I  
would like to have a trial run .  However I carelessly placed the  unit 
on its back and spilled the  needles that were in the little circular  
receptacles  all over the place  and in the car.

So the question is whether it is possible to identify needles that have 
been used from unused. I have a  magnifying glass but no microscope. 
Some of those I have looked at so far  appear to have a  tiny chisel 
face on the end that reflects light. However I wonder if this is the 
normal end shape since I would have expected wear to be on the sides.

Any help will be appreciated.

regards,

Doug