Franciscan Mandolin

[Gotterdamerung]

Are these an intermediate/beginner level instrument? Well-made/sweat-shop made?

Thanks

[BenE]

Yes....I had one many years ago. I would say your average pacific rim mandolin. Where did you come across it?

[odeman]

I had one years ago to hack around on. It was a REAL entry level instrument that looked OK but had no tone or volumn to speak of.

[davepb]

I've still got one that my wife gave me a bunch of years ago. Actually, it's not that bad as an entry level IMHO. The tone is certainly not the greatest, but it has quite a bit of volume for a plywood construction and it's playability is acceptable for a beginner. My grandson (3 years old) uses it to play "Motars" with Grandpa. If he ever decides to learn how to play, it'll be a great start. I'm glad I still have it.

Dave