How do I tune a 5-string banjo to Open G?

The 5-string banjo's short 5th string is what makes its tuning unusual. It starts at the 5th fret and acts as a high drone, so it's the highest-pitched string even though it sits on the bass side of the neck.

String by string:

• 5th string (short): high G
• 4th string: D, the lowest string
• 3rd string: G
• 2nd string: B
• 1st string: D, an octave above the 4th

How to tune:

1. Tune the 3rd string to G with a tuner.
2. Tune the 4th string to D. Fretted at the 5th fret, it should match the open 3rd.
3. Tune the 2nd string to B. The 3rd string fretted at the 4th fret should match it.
4. Tune the 1st string to D. The 2nd string fretted at the 3rd fret should match it.
5. Tune the 5th string to G. It should match the 1st string fretted at the 5th fret.
6. Retune all five, since tightening strings pulls on the head and neck.

S.I.T. 5-string sets are stainless steel and loop end: B5920 Light (.009–.020) for an easier feel and B51024 Medium (.010–.024), the common bluegrass choice. Both are in Banjo Strings, with loop end singles in Specialty Singles.