Gold Tone HM-100 High Moon Handcrafted Open-Back Banjo

Gold Tone HM-100 High Moon Handcrafted Open-Back Banjo 

The Gold Tone HM-100 High Moon is a meticulously handcrafted open-back banjo, developed by master luthier Chris Pariso. Combining boutique-level craftsmanship with thoughtful modern features, it is built for the discerning clawhammer player. Constructed from over 60 custom components, this banjo includes a dowel-stick neck adjuster, 14 pawn-lug brackets, a scooped ebony fingerboard, and convenient peghead truss rod access for seasonal neck adjustments. Its 12" Renaissance head paired with a rolled brass flat bar tone ring offers both traditional charm and precision in design.

Tonally, the HM-100 delivers a warm, woody sound with clear articulation, perfect for old-time and festival playing. Its lightweight 6 lb. frame ensures comfort during long sessions, while features like the Trillium bridge, Crescent tailpiece, and Gotoh tuners contribute to consistent, reliable tone. Over time, the banjo’s sound continues to mature, developing rich resonance and complexity that responds beautifully to each player’s touch.

Ideal for old-time and clawhammer banjoists, the High Moon combines traditional tonal character with modern convenience. Its professional-grade playability, refined craftsmanship, and boutique-inspired details make it a standout choice for musicians seeking quality without a prohibitive price tag.

FREE GIFTS: Complimentary Deluxe Case
Your instrument arrives protected, tuned, and ready for immediate performance, exactly as Gold Tone intends.

Key Features

• Handcrafted from mahogany and maple with 3-ply maple rim
• Finished with mahogany satin
• Fitted with ebony scooped fingerboard with dot & moon inlays
• Equipped with Trillium bridge, Crescent tailpiece, Gotoh tuners, and Zero Glide nut
• Includes Complimentary Deluxe Case

Specifications

Size / Scale Length: 23-1/2"
Top / Back & Sides: 12" Remo HC Renaissance Head / 3-Ply Maple Rim
Neck: Mahogany
Finish: Mahogany Satin
Fingerboard: Ebony w/ Scoop
Bridge: Trillium Bridge
Tailpiece: Crescent Tailpiece
Tuners: GT Master Planetary
Coordinator Rods: Single Rod w/ Dowel
Tension Hoop: 12" Notched, 14 Bracket
Tone Ring: 12" Rolled Brass Flat Bar
Binding: Maple
Brackets: 14 Pawn Lugs
Hardware: Nickel Plated
Weight: 6 lbs.
String Gauge: .09, .022w, .013, .011, .09
Tuning: AEAC#E
Included Accessories: Complimentary Deluxe Case