Old? end pin
 

I have a bass with an end pin which is a 1/2 inch rod held by a wooden collet tightened with a big aluminum collar. Does anyone know if these are still made?

Maybe. Can we see what you are talking about? Some older end pins are not as good as the newer ones and should be replaced.

This is the original endpin on a 1954 Wilfer. It seems simple and robust. It works okay, I was just wondering if they were still made.http://www.smithbassforums.com/[...ber/Endpin.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/g...ber/Endpin.jpg

Technology doesn't do a lot for string instruments, but modern endpins are a wonderful thing. ;)

This old thing was a college bass from 1954 until last year, and the endpin survived with only the one chip you see in the photo. I think it's neat. I've seen at least one modern collet-type endpin, although it's metal. There'a a photo of it in this article.
http://www.hamstringsmusic.com/Doubl...%20article.pdf

I should add that this old one does not slip with only minimal tightening. The collet just seems like a more elegant design than a bolt jamming your endpin in place. You could do the same thing with a cam clamp instead of a threaded collar.

nice..
 

I have seen a few of these over time. think they are cool. If I had a bass come in with one, I might just leave it on.

I have a similar one on my older bass. It works well and I haven't come up with a good reason to change it out.

As the old saying goes, "if it ain’t broke, don't fix it!" ;)