A buddy asked me to build a bass CBG for his father. He specifically requested a 3 string fretted with a 34" scale. I am concerned that the scale length will cause too much string tension for a normal neck. I do not have the ability or tools to do a truss rod. I also am concerned that the long neck will look out of proportion with the body [a biggish Payback box], but ultimately looks are not as critical as function.

Is my string tension concern valid? Should I ask him to consider a short scale 30" or perhaps 32" instead?

My plan is to use the lowest 3 strings from a conventional bass tuning. I will install a humbucker.

Will a bass introduce any new issues? I've built about 30+ CBGs, LPGs, GCG's so I am getting acquainted with basic building technique.

Thanks in advance. All input is appreciated.

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As a "safer" alternative  , you  can get away  with a  3   stringer  short scale bass / hybrid     , using  the fat  strings  from a special drop d guitar  string pack  . they will still  fit the  regular "guitar " tuners  , and  a good piece of oak will  be  sufficient for a  regular 25.5  scale through neck  (which is still within  a bass conversion scale too). (actually  some folks convert their regular teles  to a shortscale bass ). you can still use the same "guitar" pickups  too .

(i've done a couple that way )  2 and 3 stringers basses  . as you can  hear .. they sound just as deep as a bass, 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7miRgfydVtQ

http://www.cigarboxnation.com/video/swamp-witch-2-string-bass-guita...

( string pack brand)

 http://www.ebay.com/itm/GHS-Boomers-Electric-Guitar-Strings-GBZW-he...

(i'd use the .52)

hope that helps . 

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