Luthiers in Eastern/Central Montana and Northern Wyoming

Good morning from Billings. I am working on an F5 style mandolin for my son. Almost finished making all the parts. I've been working on the back and soundboard for what seems like months. Neck is almost finished and the rib is finished.

I am not a musician and know nothing about tap tuning or know an A from an E. I have built a baritone ukulele for my granddaughter that apparently plays pretty good according to those that seem to know. And to complicate matters, I'm using non-traditional woods for the back (figured cherry) and soundboard (sinker redwood) so I'm not entirely comfortable strictly following graduation specifications for maple and spruce.
I am also including a couple of other non-traditional features like the scroll and violin edges.

I was curious to know if there are any builders in my area that would be willing to look at my plates and give me some feedback regarding tap tones, graduation, tonebars, etc. I'm willing to drive a couple of hours (maybe more) from Billings.

I look forward to any replies and meeting some/one of you.

Thanks so much - Gary Davis

[IMG]https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...13d551ac_c.jpgUntitled by Gary Davis, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...911037d8_c.jpgUntitled by Gary Davis, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...db0f2f1d_c.jpgUntitled by Gary Davis, on Flickr[/IMG]

Bruce Weber is the most well-known luthier in Montana at Montana Luthierie. Otherwise, you can so a search by state on the Cafe's builder's database.

Bruce is the mando guru. He lives in Big Fork or Whitefish now...6+ hr from Billings.
Good luck on your special build, it looks great!

Thanks y'all. Maybe I'll contact Bruce and visit with him next time I visit my friend in Missoula.

Gary

Daniel Roberts at danielrobertsstringworks.com lives in Belgrade. He used to build mandolins but now focuses on guitars. He might be able to offer you some friendly advice. He is a super nice guy.