Thanks for the input. I wasn't sure if heating it would discolor the brass. I'll give it a try.You can anneal the brass making it softer. Heat it till it is red and let it cool at room temperature. Second solution is using thinner brass strips.
These bracelets fit at the very top of the masts. This is an older kit. I noticed on the online instructions, these brass straps are no longer used.I guess you mean these rings, or?
View attachment 226637
In my opinion they should be blackened anyhow