How to Choose a Reamer
Posted by Clair Cangialosi, DMA on Aug 17th 2026
One important tool in every bassoonist’s tool bag is a reamer. Reamers are used to remove cane from the inside of the tube of the finished reed. This is essential for controlling how far onto the bocal the reed will go- impacting intonation and creating an airtight seal. Here at Hodge Products, we stock several types of reamers. Read on for details or skip to the different brands below.
Table of Contents
Types of Reamers
We carry two types of reamers: spiral fluted and diamond coated. They are shown in figure 1.
Spiral fluted reamers have a metal spiral-shaped blade with vertical grooves- also called flutes- attached to a wooden or plastic handle, similar to a drill bit. The blade is designed to smoothly remove cane from the inside of the reed tube.
The body of the diamond coated reamer is made of metal. It is coated with a layer of finely crushed diamonds, similar to a diamond file. This type of reamer is used to refine the inside of the reed tube during the reed finishing process.
There is also a third type- the straight fluted reamer (which we do not currently carry). These are similar to the spiral fluted reamer, except that the flutes go straight up the blade.
Brand Descriptions
Spiral Fluted Reamers
Ortwein Bassoon Reamer
This is the most cost effective reamer that we carry. It features a locking stop to control how much depth you wish to ream your reed, which is adjustable with an Allen wrench (3/32”), and an ergonomic wood handle, with a rubber tip cover.
Pisoni Spiral Fluted Reamer
If you like the Pisoni mandrels, you may also enjoy using this reamer. The handle is made from the same plastic in the same flat shape as the Pisoni holding mandrels. The plastic is lightweight at only 1.3 oz!
Rieger Spiral Fluted Reamer
The Rieger reamer features a rounded beechwood handle and a German steel blade.
Reeds ‘N Stuff Spiral Fluted Reamer
This shape of this reamer is made to match the Reeds ‘N Stuff holding mandrel, helping to ensure a consistent fit on the bocal. The handle is made of beechwood with a rounded, ergonomic shape.
Reeds n’ Stuff Compact Spiral Fluted Reamer
This reamer has all the same features of the full size reamer, but with a shorter handle. It is perfect for reedmakers with smaller hands, or for use as a travel-size tool.
Diamond Coated Reamers
Reeds n’ Stuff Diamond Coated Reamer
The Reeds ‘N Stuff Diamond Coated reamer features the same parabolic shape as their spiral fluted reamer. It is great for ensuring a smooth finish on the inside of the bassoon reed tube.
Rieger Diamond Coated Reamer
The handle of this reamer is a slightly different shape than the Rieger spiral fluted reamer. Otherwise, it features similar materials and design, intended to smooth out the inside of the bassoon reed tube.
Reeds n’ Stuff Compact Diamond Coated Reamer
Just like the compact spiral flute reamer, the blade of the compact diamond coated reamer is the same length as the full size, but with a shorter handle.
Additional Accessories
Rieger Reamer Stop
The Rieger Reamer stop fits onto the blade of the reamer and locks into place. This tool ensures that each reed will be reamed the same amount. The distance can easily be customized using the included allen wrench.
Conclusion
When purchasing a reamer, it may be helpful to consider where in the reed making process the tool will be used. Spiral fluted reamers can be used at any stage, but diamond coated reamers will be most helpful in the finishing stages.
For reedmakers looking to build their “must-have” tool kit, our bassoon specialist recommends buying a spiral fluted reamer first. It is an essential tool for creating the correct bocal depth. A diamond coated reamer is a nice add-on for those who already own a basic set of tools.
Beyond that, the choice of reamer comes down to your budget and brand preferences. All of our tools are high quality and built to last, ensuring that you can make great reeds for years to come.
Questions? Contact us through our website or email our bassoon specialist, Dr. Clair Cangialosi at clair@hodgeproductsinc.com