On the G4 bell, the clapper has three positions: the Soft position is of felt so as to produce a very soft, muted sound; the Medium position uses a slotted plastic surface to produce a soft sound with a more brilliant timbre; the Hard position uses a solid plastic surface which produces a brilliant, crisp sound when the bell is rung ( See Figure 2). The clapper designations of Soft, Medium, and Hard refer to the density of the clapper material and not to how the bell is to be rung. The different settings give a different timbre or tonal color which provides new opportunity for interpretation of passages within a musical selection beyond that of dynamic levels. For example, even with the clapper set on the Hard setting it is possible to ring pianissimo while creating a more brilliant timbre of bell sound.
Bells higher then A#4 are not equipped with felted clapper surfaces ( Figure 3) since, as the bells become smaller and higher in pitch, a harder striking surface is needed to properly excite the higher tonal frequencies. This, as the bells range higher in pitch, the clapper slots or holes become smaller or are eliminated so that the striking surfaces are of the proper density to best develop the desired partials of the bell. In some of the smallest bells of highest pitch (E6 and above), clappers having only two settings, Medium and Hard, are provided since a softer position would not excite the desired partials.
It is evident from the preceding that clapper settings can be varied from bell to bell to control the tonal transition to suit individual preference. However, it should be noted that, while Medium and Hard positions are provided on clappers of larger bells, use of these positions can result in some reduction of tonal quality. This will be especially true in bells equipped with felted-position clappers where the resulting soft strike mutes undesirable high partials. Obviously, use of the non-felted strike surfaces of the clappers in the Medium or Hard positions will result in excitation of existing higher partials, and will, as well, accentuate any beats and "wows" which may exist.
The materials, design, and weight of the clapper used in each bell have been carefully selected to provide the best tonal response and ringing control for that particular bell. For this reason, a clapper from one bell should not be interchanged with a clapper from another bell in the same set.
Immediately under the clapper is the clapper indexing spring. Note ( Figure 4 ) the proper relationship of the slots in this spring to the center-line, parallel to the yoke rocker arms. The illustration on the left, identified as 4a, shows the correct relationship. The illustration on the right, identified as 4B shows the incorrect alignment.
Secured to the clapper shaft just under the clapper on some of the larger handbells, you will find a round metal cylinder held by a set screw. This is to add weight to the clapper and provide a smoother ringing action. The size, weight and location of this metal cylinder has been factory selected and adjusted to what is best for that particular bell. The combination of adjustable tension on the restraining spring and adjustable clapper weight permits a fine degree of balance to insure that your ringers will be able to achieve the maximum degree of expressions and musicianship. With proper balance and restraining spring adjustment, it is possible to ring very soft even with the clapper set on the Hard position.
Now, to help you more fully understand the parts of yor bell and how it works, examine the sketches and photographs in the manual. Re-read, if necessary, the preceding descriptions while referring to Figures 1, 1a, 2, 3, and 4.