First mandolin purchase

[MANDOBANJER]

Hi All, I currently play both banjo and guitar and have decided to add a mandolin. I've never owned or played one. I need to buy one for about $300-500. It can be new or used - any advise? Thanks, Jim

[Northwest Steve]

The Mandolin Store advertised the new Kentucky 505 for $499.I have a Kentucky 1050 an the 505 they said is now made in the same factory. One of those could make you happy for a long time. So if TMS will still honor that price That would end my search.

That said the Kentucky 150 is amazing for $300.
I have also had an Eastman 305 that was very nice. You should be able to find some nice Eastmans in your price range.
If you look you might find a used Morris for close.

Good luck in the search there are some nice mandolins in your price range.

[Bob A]

I'd consider used, myself. The depreciation is already figured into the price, and if/when you want to upgrade, you won't lose value.
Beyond that, the instrument will be somewhat "played in"; any changes that the break-in process may have effected will already be determined.

Also, the dreaded "first scratch" is already there, so that bit of anxiety is dispensed with.

[crisscross]

Though almost any style can be played on any mandolin, I think it would be helpful to know what you intend to play.
The Eastman and Kentucky mandolins recommended are archtop mandolins with f-holes, that can be used in any style, but have a sound typically thought of as kind of bluegrassy.
Alternatives would be archtop oval hole or flattop for folk styles or even bowlback mandolins for classical music.

[Bill Kammerzell]

I just bought a great little Eastman 315 F copy from Blue Angel music in Pensacola Florida. They do a great set up. It was a demo. With shipping it cost me under $500.00. They had more than one available. They sell on Reverb. Give them a call, they are always ready to deal. The Eastman 305 is always an option for an A model.

[Zach Wilson]

https://themandolinstore.com/product...el-a-mandolin/

This looks like a good one and the fine folks at The Mandolin Store are the best (nfi). I've been extremely satisfied with all my purchases from them.

The Loar LM400 (with case!) deserves a look as well.

Good luck!

[MANDOBANJER]

I just ordered an Eastmas MD305 from the Mandolin Store. Thanks to everyone for your help. Jim

[Zach Wilson]

Right on! Here's to you and many years of pickin'!