I'm working through a Hal Leonard guide using a rented Aria banjo. Eventually I have in mind to get a Deering Goodtime 2. The neck widths are both 1-1/4, based on measuring the Aria and reading about the Deering. I don't want to tinker with the top nut as a solution, but rather work on technique.
My struggle right now is consistently fingering the C chord without hitting neighboring strings. The same issue that apparently everyone hits. :) The guide says to place the thumb on the back of the neck, though I see plenty of players who have more or less of a choke hold.
Based on these pictures of me trying a D7 and C chord, can someone provide feedback on technique? I realize lessons would be a help, too, but wanted to ask here first.