Gibson F4 neck

[Joe Bartl]

Though I have a number of vintage mandos, my F4 is on my lap daily because its neck seems perfectly suited to my left hand. While I love this guy and have had it for many years, having just paid another $200 in repairs, I'm beginning to think about playing something a little more contemporary that might not have age-related issues. Are there luthiers making mandos with the same width and depth necks as an F4? Thanks for your help! -- mandogio

[Gail Hester]

I've made a few as have other modern builders. The neck profile varied over the years of Gibson production so you would need to pass along your preferences/specs of your F4 to your builder.

[Timbofood]

You could simply send the mandolin to Gail and have her do an updated Hester version with the same neck profile, couldn't he Gail?
The old "Make me one just like it, only new." request.

[sunburst]

Are there luthiers making mandos with the same width and depth necks as an F4?

It's the kind of thing for which you go to a custom builder. Most builders of custom mandolins will be happy to build a neck to your specs (within reason, of course) whether an exact replica or modified to your preference.

[Joe Bartl]

Thanks, folks. As "custom-build" and "retirement income" just don't go together, I'll just put this on hold and enjoy my F4 until the next repair. -- mandogio

[Jeff Mando]

Thanks, folks. As "custom-build" and "retirement income" just don't go together, I'll just put this on hold and enjoy my F4 until the next repair. -- mandogio

Agreed. Seems like $200 every few years is a reasonable way to keep an "old friend" in good playing order.