CKF Vargan Tactical

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Limited, numbered.

The CKF Vargan, also known as the jaw harp, mouth harp, Ozark harp or juice harp, is a tactical lamellophone instrument, consisting of a flexible M398 steel attached to a timascus frame. Each CKF Vargan is numbered and produces one pitch only, with its multiples (overtones), though different sized instruments provide different pitches. There is no standard pitch. Taking its name and inspiration from the legendary Yakut region, the CKF Vargan is equally impressive in its own rights.

The Vargan's frame is held firmly against the performer's parted teeth or lips (depending on the type), using the jaw and mouth as a resonator, greatly increasing the volume of the instrument. The teeth must be parted sufficiently for the reed to vibrate freely, and the fleshy parts of the mouth should not come into contact with the reed to prevent damping of the vibrations and possible pain. The note or tone thus produced is constant in pitch, though by changing the shape of the mouth, and the amount of air contained in it (and in some traditions closing the glottis), the performer can cause different overtones to sound and thus create melodies.

Man in tactical jacket plays his own melody with the Vargan.