after using the box tester to find the sweet spot, I cut the neck pieces, laminated the heel, cut the hole in the end, and slid the neck through. I cut the length wrong, and had to glue a little extension on the end, so the end of the neck would reach the bottom of the box so I could bolt it there too..

The border I glued around the top of the box, that allowed me to screw the top on and give me an access means, is also serving as a strengthened area to bolt the two ends of the neck that intersect the box. So, it's sort of live and learn all along the way. First time I've constructed one from scratch, so, I'll eventually be able to twist these around in my mind better and make design choices consciously.

With my limited power tools (drill press, router and table), I'm finding ways to get around my limited ability to cut straight with a hand saw. Make the rough cut, then go to the router table, clamp the wood to the miter gauge, and shave small amounts off at the proper angle.