Re: How to spot a good inexpensive bowl-back mando (eBay, craigsl
Look for a (labeled) American Conservatory mandolin. They were Lyon and Healy's second line after the Washburns, but often equal or surpass them in quality of materials and craft. Washburns and AC mandolins were quite well made and tend to have held up well--all other things and caveats included.
You should be able to get a proper AC for $200 with some careful looking. They are one of the best $$ / value mandolins on the vintage market.
Mick
Ever tried, ever failed? No matter. Try again, fail again. Fail better.--Samuel Beckett
______________________
'05 Cuisinart Toaster
'93 Chuck Taylor lowtops
'12 Stetson Open Road
'06 Bialetti expresso maker
'14 Irish Linen Ramon Puig
Bookmarks