Non-scroll headstocks on F models

[MediumMando5722]

I've been noticing more F body mandolins without scrolls on the headstock. I think it looks nice, and reduces the likelihood of breaking the headstock. Anybody else a fan?

[Denny Gies]

Not me.

[JEStanek]

Sure. I like the Montes and how Weber did some of theirs (Gallatin). But, I'm not a strict traditionalist.

Jamie

[CES]

I'm fine with nontraditional headstocks, and even really like some of them, but I've seen a couple F-style bodies with snakehead style head stocks, and that doesn't do it for me for some reason. I like the snakehead look on A styles. Just looks to unbalanced and bottom heavy to me on an F style.

[Pilot172000]

The Fender Concert F has a very different head stock without the scroll but beautifully designed. Too bad the mandolin itself isn't up to par.

[Rodney Riley]

When I had to replace the neck on my F-style Gallatin. They asked if I wanted the newer designed headstock. Nope, I wanted the original “dog bone”. The wife agreed. And since it was a Christmas present from her...

[George R. Lane]

Here is my old Gallatin. I never should have sold it. lol

[Zach Wilson]

My dream mandolin (maybe one day) has a different peg head. I love it!

http://www.zimnicki.com/instrument/z-mandolin/

[Chris Pritchett]

I use a bigger, symmetrical head on my two-point and F5 mandolins and a slimmer profile om the A5s

[Dogrich]

My dream mandolin (maybe one day) has a different peg head. I love it!

http://www.zimnicki.com/instrument/z-mandolin/

+1 on the Zimnicki style! That is a good looking alternative!

[jimmy powells]

It immediately makes you think that they are cutting corners and for me it's a non starter. If you are going to copy this fabulous shape, then headstock is a must.

Having said that, I personally would prefer no bottom point on the body as it sticks in my leg(others have said the same) and photos without it look great.

I find it so annoying I would change to an A5 if I could find one with everything my Northfield BigMon F5 has.

Am Ellis A5 may just be the one.

[Mandoplumb]

When I am convinced that the shape of the headstock affects the sound of the mandolin then I will care. Until such a time it makes no difference to me. I stand with my blind friend although I am sighted " I don't care what it looks like, it's how it sounds that is important."

[Dave Greenspoon]

It immediately makes you think that they are cutting corners and for me it's a non starter. If you are going to copy this fabulous shape, then headstock is a must.

Having said that, I personally would prefer no bottom point on the body as it sticks in my leg(others have said the same) and photos without it look great.

I find it so annoying I would change to an A5 if I could find one with everything my Northfield BigMon F5 has.

Am Ellis A5 may just be the one.

I had my Rigel for a while before I realized the headstock was essentially the F-5 minus the scrolls. It happened only when I saw a "broken" headstock photo and I had that eureka moment, "OH! So THAT'S what Pete was going for!". So, I wouldn't say the approach "cuts corners"; it cuts curves! AFAIK, there is no functional difference with this change...other than you don't have to worry about breaking headstock scrolls. ;-)

OTOH, cutting out the bottom point DOES make a functional difference. Not all of us play B-G or otherwise have to stand for performances. That point sure does work nicely to add stability while playing when seated. As far as "looks great", well, clearly YMMV.

I understand aesthetics are a personal thing. I simply find it funny when someone says "Oh, the look here can't change, but there it can"...especially when there is a real impact on functionality. I can't imagine someone turning down a Monteleone GA or Radio Flyer because the headstock design is not from 1911.

[Hudmister]

While we're on the subject, notice how many F-5 style mandolins that actually don't have a scroll at the body either but something more like a hook where a scroll is traditionally placed. I consider this a cost cutting design to save the labor of a well formed scroll. Sure you can still attach a strap there but I like the scroll headstock and a real scroll on the body.

[George R. Lane]

If you look at my post #7 you will see an original Weber Gallatin F model, these all came with 'as you say' a hook scroll. I personally like this type of scroll. The TOH Weber Gallatin's now have a traditional scroll, which makes them look like any other F5. The hook scroll can still be found on many other builder's mandolins and I find them sexy.

I have a Bruce Weber built Yellowstone and it is beautiful sounding and looking. If I was to get another F% model I would asked for the hook scroll. Just my $.02

[Dale Ludewig]

Here's one I did a couple years ago. Redwood top.

[V70416]

yep. I once owned Nugget#223. F-style body and "haircut" headstock. Very cool imho.
i just liked that headstock even better than the trad. F5 style;so,ordered it like that.

[Marc Berman]

Love my Smart F5

[MediumMando5722]

Here's one I did a couple years ago. Redwood top.

I like the headstock and non-traditional scroll. Nice looking axe!

[MikeZito]

Call me a traditionalist - but given a choice, I still prefer the traditional body and head stock scrolls . . .