Looking for help

[Steve Mead]

I am looking to find years, makes, models of mandolins, preferably F style that have a neck similar to my 1963 Gibson, A5, two point, jethro burns model. The nut is 1 3/16", fretboard is flat, and neck profile is a "c" shape. I have been beating the bushes on this, contacting a good number of the main players in the mandolin sales world, for about a year with no success. Seems they either do not know the answer or the majority can't find the time to respond to my question. I found it strange that even Gibson could not answer the question, wish I knew how to contact Dave Harvey. Some have said that mid 50's F-12's would fit the requirements, others say not. Same with the F-7's and Sam Bush models. At any rate if anyone has any suggestions as to what I should be looking for, I would appreciate it. Steve

[Br1ck]

I would think any builder could make you a mandolin with a neck just like you want. Might be easier than finding one.

[Jim Garber]

It is easy to spec a 1-3/16" at nut but harder to say for sure what a C-shape neck is and there are many variants to that—I think you would have to send someone specs or bring them your A-5. I agree with Br1ck that you could find a maker to make you what you want.

[Steve Mead]

Thanks guys, I agree it would likely be easier, I was just hoping there would be vintage models floating around to fill the bill as I like old stuff, coming from an old guy!!

[Jim Garber]

Thanks guys, I agree it would likely be easier, I was just hoping there would be vintage models floating around to fill the bill as I like old stuff, coming from an old guy!!

There may be but you would have to play them in person. Gibson was and still is not so consistent in their specs over the years and as time went on they made fewer mandolins than in their heyday. Even with guitars if you are looking for a specific neck profile there are no real standards AFAIK.