hullo folks...new user here...

i have been playing for many years and when i first started on electric, i broke many a High E and B, but i've since moved on to playing strictly acoustic.  I have a Taylor Big Baby, which i write on and play around the house, and a 614ce that i perform with.  On both guitars I consistently break the G and D strings....never E A B E...just those two.  I suppose it could be problems with either the nut or the bridge, but I've gotten my bridge adjusted before and it still happens.  I always play in Drop D, most all my chords have at least one open string going on (usually the D) and I tend to play incredibly hard.  I use D'Addario EXP lights.  I used to rock the extra lights, but switched to mediums, then I've finally stuck with the reg. lights.  Do i need to switch strings?  Should I adjust my nut or bridge?  Because I can't sacrifice my intense playing style; it's the only way I can play, really.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks.

Isaac.

  If you say you play hard a heavier string would be a wize choice.  For  two reasons...... 1, you will break fewer strings and 2 you are dropping the E string down to D.  A heavier string will behave better at a dropped tuning.   I would recommend going to the DAdarrio J17's (13 thru 56).  I use this set exclusivley on all my acoustic guitars. 

  A  few other things to check as well.  Check the nut and make sure the string is not "pinched" in the slot.  If it is, this uneccessary tension could be causing the breakage. This repair will usually require that you take it to a tech.  They have special files that are used to open the slot.  If the slot is to wide you may need a new nut.   I would also take a close look at the saddle.  If you have any grooves cut in the saddle they should be sanded out.  Use a 1000, to 1500 grit sand paper.  Be careful not to change the angle of the saddle as this will effect the intonation of the guitar.  I will usually buff the saddle after I have removed all the grooves with a liitle compound.  Most string breakage issues are related to excessive friction where the string runs over the nut or saddle and you can usually repair this yourself.  If you determine that you need a new nut or saddle consider getting either Bone or Ivory.  The bone will sound better, the Ivory even better than bone.  I am not sure what material Taylor uses to make the nut and saddle out of, but Bone or Ivory would be my choice.  Good Luck!!!