The question of the week is: Where should the hole be located? On one hand, I am trying to build an oval-hole mandolin - similar to ones that were produced by Gibson early on in the 20th century. On the other hand, this kit has a neck that attaches at the 15th fret and not the 12th, as is the case with the traditional mandolins. The more I thought about it, the more I saw (at least) two possibilities for the hole location.
Option #1: Locate the hole 3.25" away from the 12th fret, as is the case in the old mandolins.
This option retains the same bridge-to-hole-to-nut spacing as in the old mandolins. However, it forces the hole
to a higher location on the body
Option #2: Locate the hole 3.25" away from where the neck joins the body, as is the case in the old mandolins.
This option retains the same hole location as on the old mandolins, but changes the distance from the bridge to
the hole and from the hole to the nut.
The two photos here show the possible locations. I've been soliciting opinions on this from mandolincafe members. Some information is starting to come in but I'd like to get some more before making my final decision. Right now, I am leaning towards option #1. I've seen at least one example of a hybrid F4 mandolin with an F5 neck and the hole was located as in Option #1. However, I also saw an example of another IV kit where the hole was located as in option #2.
By the way - the photos show the neck in place but it's not attached yet. I just positioned it there to get a sense of the proportions.
In addition to thinking about the hole location, I'm starting to design the headstock. I have several design ideas already. It's clear that the thin veneer on the existing headstock is coming off and a new thicker veneer will be attached. I bought both ebony and rosewood veneers and will pick one depending on the final design and color choices.
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