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How to Adjust the COBRA

Fig. 1

The COBRA is an accessory for the flute. It supports the flute, making it easier to hold while playing.

It may take a little time to become used to playing with the COBRA. It is recommended that it be used for several sessions, adjusting the fit and angle of the COBRA in order to ensure maximum playing benefit.

The COBRA is worn on the left forefinger, and should be adjusted to fit comfortably yet securely (see Fig. 1).

COBRA A and B

Adjusting the ring

The COBRA ring should be adjusted to fit the left forefinger (index finger).

The metal of the COBRA is flexible enough to be adjusted by hand, and should retain its shape after adjustment (see Figs. 2a and 2b). For tighter and more precise adjustments pliers may be used, with care. Tape should be placed on the pliers to protect the COBRA from scratching.

Fig. 2a

Fig. 2b

Once you have adjusted the size of the ring to fit your finger, if the "tail" is too far from the "head" it may be difficult to support the flute securely. In such cases please exchange your COBRA for a larger size. If the "head" and "tail" overlap, your COBRA is too large; please exchange it for a smaller size.

 Adjusting the “head” and “tail”

The angles of the COBRA “head” and “tail” should also be adjusted to hold the flute securely.

The “head”

Fig. 3

The “head” (see Fig. 3) should point downwards toward the palm so that the weight of the flute is distributed between the back of the ring on the finger and the front through the head. This allows greater comfort for long playing sessions.

Fig. 3a

Make sure that the "head" is adjusted to point downwards at least 45 degrees, or more. The "head" should fit on your finger as shown in Fig. 3a (showing COBRA B), almost in the center of the finger.

The “tail”

The flute should rest on the “tail” of the COBRA at the most desirable angle for playing. The fingers of the left hand should be free to reach all keys easily.

Fig. 4

 

The "tail" should be positioned on the finger as shown in Fig 4. If the "tail" is too close to the "head" or too far from the "head" it may be difficult to support the flute securely. The "head" should be as shown in Fig 3a (above) and the "tail" adjusted to support the flute. If this is not possible, please exchange for a different size.

 

If the "tail" is too high (or too low) on the finger so that the flute is not at a comfortable angle for playing, the ring can be twisted so that the relative heights of the "head" and "tail" allow the flute to be supported at the correct height. 

Fig. 5

 

When playing with the COBRA, the flute will be supported on the “tail” as shown in Fig. 5.

  

 

 

Fig. 6

 

COBRA B has an extended and adjustable “tail” (see Fig. 6). It can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically to provide the best support for the flute.

 

 

 

The photos below show the COBRA B supporting a flute with "head" and "tail" appropriately adjusted.

click to see larger image

click to see larger image

Fig. 7a Fig. 7b

The flute should sit on the horizontal support, and may also touch the vertical support. See Fig. 8.

Fig. 8