You can get replacement reeds at Cabelas. Ive had better luck using the triple reed in mine. As far as tightness of the end piece, I tighten it just to the point where it wont loosen itself in the field. Check the sound and adjust it a little from there until you are satisfied with the tone. I have noticed a little better sound when the reed is cocked just a hair to the 1 oclock or 11 oclock position.