Deering has posted a great YouTube video discussing the Eagle II banjo with the infamous Jens Kruger - "a model that he helped develop with Deering Banjo Company back in 2010. The Eagle II has since become one of our best-selling models, thanks to its mid-range emphasis and slightly lighter weight. Delve in as Jens takes us on a tour of the Eagle II."

We've summarized his points about this great banjo below.

You can watch the video here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5OzmhuF06k

Development and Purpose of the Deering Eagle II Banjo

Deering developed the Eagle II banjo to fill a gap between their Goodtime and Sierra lines, aiming to offer an instrument that balances affordability with professional quality.

The Eagle II was designed with versatility in mind, allowing players to modify it into an open-back configuration by removing the flange, a feature that distinguishes it from other models like the Sierra line of banjos.

This adaptability makes the Eagle II appealing to players who enjoy both resonator and open-back styles, catering to diverse musical preferences such as bluegrass and old-time music.

Design Features

A significant aspect of the Eagle II’s design is its wood rim, which has a unique construction. Unlike other banjos where the wood rim is cut thinner at the bottom to accommodate the flange, the Eagle II’s rim is cut straight down, maintaining a consistent thickness.

This design choice affects the tonal quality, compensating for the absence of a heavy flange and contributing to the banjo’s distinctive sound.

The use of shoes and brackets further supports the ability to convert the banjo to an open-back setup, enhancing its versatility. Kruger emphasizes the craftsmanship, describing the Eagle II as “fantastically” put together, with beautiful aesthetics that reflect Deering’s attention to detail.

Tonal Qualities and Sound

The Deering Eagle II banjo has a pronounced upper mid-range that gives it a somewhat “older” tone, reminiscent of vintage banjos. The fourth string is believed to be a critical indicator of a banjo’s quality. The fourth string on the Eagle II produces a rich, vibrant sound, and the entire instrument resonates strongly when played, creating a tactile sense of liveliness in the player’s hands.

Contrast that with lesser banjos that may “cave in” under full playing force, losing clarity and sustain.

The Eagle II, however, translates the player’s energy effectively, maintaining its sound integrity even when played with intensity.

For clawhammer players, the Deering Eagle II offers sufficient power to hold its own in old-time jams, whether used with or without the resonator.

For bluegrass players, the banjo’s mid-range gives it a tone reminiscent of a calfskin head, adding to its vintage appeal.

Performance Reliability

Banjo legend JD Crowe once said, “Any banjo sounds good at home on your lap but may abandon you on stage."

The Eagle II demonstrates its reliability when the fourth string is played with full power, showing that it does not falter or lose tonal quality.

This ability to handle aggressive playing without “going to its knees” sets the Eagle II apart from other banjos that may struggle to maintain sound quality under similar conditions.

Versatility for Different Playing Styles

The Eagle II demonstrates suitability for both clawhammer and bluegrass playing (If you don't know the difference between the two styles check out this blog post here).

For clawhammer players, the banjo provides enough volume and presence to compete in old-time music sessions, whether configured as a resonator or open-back banjo.

Its mid-range tone enhances its adaptability, offering a sound that feels both powerful and nuanced.

For bluegrass banjo players, the Eagle II’s tonal profile mimics the warmth of a calfskin head, which, to many, is particularly appealing.

You can experience the Eagle II banjo’s responsiveness by applying slight pressure to the head, noting how even small adjustments can produce remarkable tonal variations, further showcasing its dynamic range.

Final Thoughts

 The Deering Eagle II 5-String Banjo is a thoughtfully designed instrument that bridges the gap between Deering’s Goodtime and Sierra lines.

Its innovative wood rim design, versatility as both a resonator and open-back banjo, and vibrant tonal qualities make it a standout choice for musicians.

The Eagle II’s ability to maintain sound integrity under intense playing, combined with its suitability for both clawhammer and bluegrass styles, underscores its reliability and adaptability.

The question I have now is...when can I put the 3k together to buy it?!!