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New Builder Neck Question

Hello all. So I am on my second build. I have learned a , ot of new things about making necks. This is my question. So far I have been just cutting fret slots and installing fret wire on the neck blank itself. I haven't tried making an actual fret board yet. Is this something that will add a lot to these guitars? Should I start over on my current neck? Thanks.

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Permalink Reply by John Sawyer on July 17, 2015 at 11:55am

This probably belongs in the building secrets, tips area...

Anyway, I have done both, but there is something satisfying about a nice fretboard. Also, if you make a mistake, you toss a fretboard, not a whole neck.

Either way works, but a separate fretboard will make the neck stronger and more resistant to bowing, plus, a dark wood fretboard on a maple neck looks awesome,

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Permalink Reply by Reeds Taylor on July 17, 2015 at 1:31pm

Another point needing mentioned is the fact that a fret board adds strength to your neck, and helps prevent warping.

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Permalink Reply by Richey Kay on July 17, 2015 at 6:51pm

I would agree that a separate fretboard both looks better and is much stronger. As for whether you should start your current one again, it depends how much tension there is going to be on the neck. You should be able to get 1 or 2 strings on there without causing problems, any more than that and you might get a bit of bow.

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Permalink Reply by John Sawyer on July 18, 2015 at 4:54am

I have fretted three stringers, no fretboard... they work fine if your neck is good wood...

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Permalink Reply by CS LeBeau on July 18, 2015 at 6:21am

I prefer a fretboard,but I guess if youre using good wood bowing wouldnt be an issue.

I just use poplar for my necks,then different woods for the fretboard(even if its a slider).The coolest CBG I've built has a poplar neck and purpleheart fretboard,and the contrast looks really nice.

The main reason I didnt fret that one is that purpleheart is super hard wood and I dont have a jig.Just a cheap pull saw and a fretting chart w/ 4 different scale lengths.

As far as sound,I personally dont think it would effect it that much.As other members said,I kinda use it as a strength thing.I dont use truss rods,so glueing and clamping a fretboard down well helps w/ strength.

And sorry if I'm rambling,but I think the last 2 fretboards I bought off ebay were like oak,cut 1 1/2",and marked 24" scale.If I buy any more off that dude I'm gonna get the pre slotted ones.

Have a good one and post some pics.

BNZ'

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Permalink Reply by Aaron Green on July 18, 2015 at 7:23am

Yeah, sorry about posting in the wrong section. Thanks for the tips. I am excited to start on my next build with a fretboard. I'll post pics soon hopefully.