Thank you for the tips and the pointer to D. Boone's book, I will try
to locate a copy.  I understand all that you are saying about the shape
of the tails as they come from the maker and the need to shape them,
and about action regulation, etc.

That I already knew.  My question is whether or not the two types of
moldings, American vs. European, are interchangeable.  The backchecks
look very different to me and I'm not sure that the hammers can be
interchanged without changing the backchecks as well.  This is the
first grand that I have encountered using this type of hammer molding.
All others have used the traditional "American" type of molding.  I was
told that Knabe "cheaped out" by using this type of molding.  But that
is something I doubt.

At one point I had considered using Renner hammers but was told by
another rebuilder they are too hard and were very difficult to voice.
Is this true?  Since American Piano Supply is now defunct, I no longer
know where to buy these hammers at a wholesale price.

I'm asking all these questions because I like to do things correctly
the first time.  Having zero experience with this type hammer molding
and in selecting the correct hammer for this piano and action, I need
help from someone who has had that experience.  I don't want to end up
with a hard-sounding hammer.  This piano doesn't need that.

Thanks in advance for any more advice; it is much appreciated.

Bruce Mercer