This is "Techlube", a really superior, synthetic cork grease:

It is rare for players to return to using inferior greases after Techlube.

It has advantages over most greases marketed by music shops, and those sold with saxes:

- Much less is needed.
- It lasts longer between applications, so one of these 4.5 ml pots last many years.
- The viscosity does not change with the weather.
- It has a silky smooth action, and as non-sticky as hand cream on the fingers used to spread it. Fingers don't make a mess of the instrument.
- The sticky residue problem is largely eliminated....

Many substances have been used as cork grease and almost all of them, including those marketed under the names of respected instrument makers, have their problems:

Some, including Vaseline, lubricate poorly, enhancing the grip-slip phenomenon.

Some, including Vaseline-based types, permeate the cork and soften the glue that holds the cork to the neck.

Some attack the cellular structure of the cork, destroying its resilience. The cork may even become hard and crumbly.

Some corrode metal parts that they contact, showing as a green verdigris.

Most cork greases dry over time to a firm, sticky, cakey mess. This residue actually makes the joints more difficult to assemble. It claims space between the cork and the timber socket, so that the cork becomes excessively compressed. These damaging greases are usually marketed in lipstick containers, or square plastic containers.

When corks get this sticky, players tend to apply more grease, more often, trying to reduce friction, resulting in a messy build up of excess grease on tenons.

As a leading woodwind repair technician - see profile - I recommend cleaning this substandard grease off with lighter fluid or white spirits, and starting again with Techlube.

Smaller syringes available. See my other top quality listings.

Easy, free parking at Onehunga end of Hillsborough. Free clarinet check.

Sorry, tub is too thick to post at letter rates.