Calton cases

[Scott Tichenor]

Don't usually post this kind of info but seems folks are usually looking for Caltons. Mass. St. Music has two new ones for I believe they said $425.00 each.

Dropped by there to plunk #9 Nugget/Collings blackface A. Oh, dear. Good thing I'm not on THAT list.

[Don Grieser]

You better give us a full report on that Nugget/Collings. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[b.pat]

Come on Scott,
You can't leave us hanging like that http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
B.Pat

[Salty Dog]

Mass. St. is now down to one Calton (gray/green) and B*W #12 is getting a new travel home, assuming it fits. #The price is $475 plus $35 S&H. #Thanks for the tip Scott.

[Salty Dog]

Since the topic is Calton, I'll give a comparison between it and the TKL that was B*W#12's former home. #While the storage is very limited (underneck compartment) it is much larger (wider because of the straight sides)than the TKL and I can comfortably fit my intelli-tuner (in case), string winder and cutter, Paige radiused guitar capo, several pick packets, spare set of strings, and my 4 1/2" Guild pick that I picked up in the 70s (promotional item) in the compartment. #Yes you can actually pick a mandolin with a 4 1/2" pick if you play a sensible tune (not "Blackberry Blossom!!!). #You do this to be silly, of course, and you will succeed!
# # It is a "generic Gibson size" case and I was concerned about the fit as the sides of B*W#12 are about 3/16" wider than standard F5s that I have measured. #That's why I didn't just buy one off the board as I was unsure about the fit but those fine folks (Gayland) at Mass. St. Music assured me that I could return it if there was a problem (my expense for return,of course). #B*W#12 fits very snugly (you have to push the body into the case) as Calton says it will, but their instructions suggest that the case will adapt to the instrument. #A snug fit is a good thing since, for this kind of money, I expect absolute safety in the event that I am forced to check it when I fly (soon).
# # A general observation to the "can I fly with my mando" forums (many) which have appeared here. #If you check the generally unenforced regulations of carry on items, I think you will find your mandolin package is ok on height and width, but is a few inches long on length - check the web page of your favorite airline to be sure. #If someone was abiding in the strictest sense, they could force you to check it and that's why I have a Calton as I know they would destroy it in the TKL.
# # This thing is built like a brick "well you know what of house I mean!" and the workmanship is excellent but it weighs a ton! #It was literally shipped in a cardboard box (same one from Calton to Mass. St.), which had no packing (except in each end), so the case was floating in this box - not a mark!
# # Bottom line - I paid a lot of money but I got a lot of case and craftsmanship, which was in line with my expectations. #The real bottom line is that I am unsure whether or not I will use the TKL for local things and just use the Calton as a travel case. #Time will tell. #Another minor downside to the Calton, as I just took it and B*W#12 to the Wrench Ranch Labor Day event in Coventryville, NY is that, if you pull a mando out of a Calton case at a parking lot picking session, you will be expected to be of a very high professional quality (WHICH I AM NOT). #They soon figured out that I am an old guy who really likes nice toys.
# # I hope this comparison helps some who may be considering a Calton - get a trial period with return privilege, if you are unsure.
# # To answer the question that is surely burning in everyone's mind by now - NO, the 4 1/2" Guild (imitation tortoise) pick is not for sale but I am sure that, by now, it is a highly desired collector's item and the web
will start buzzing with them (or newly produced ones). #I would just say that you may be missing one of life's small pleasures if you haven't tried to pick a mandolin with a 4 1/2" original collector's item Guild pick.

[eightstrings]

Does anyone know if Mass Street still has that gray/green Calton? I've been desperately searching for one with this color combo.

Thanks,
Brett

[jjboone101]

Greg Boyd also had 7 or 8 Calton's as of last week. Not sure of the color combos...

[eightstrings]

Thanks!

Brett

[Greg H.]

And if you can't find what you want at either location try Tony Williamson (http://www.mandolincentral.com)as he usually has a couple for sale.