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Thread: cheap build kit

  1. #1

    Default cheap build kit

    who has bought one of these, and what are they like?

    https://www.guitarkit.shop/collectio...-6071551099040

  2. #2
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Quote Originally Posted by Dconaway View Post
    who has bought one of these, and what are they like?

    https://www.guitarkit.shop/collectio...-6071551099040
    That would be an F style mandolin shaped object. The top is flat and not carved. The back is flat and not carved. If you're going to go to the trouble you might consider another kit.
    "It's comparable to playing a cheese slicer."
    --M. Stillion

    "Bargain instruments are no bargains if you can't play them"
    --J. Garber

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  4. #3

    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Quote Originally Posted by MikeEdgerton View Post
    That would be an F style mandolin shaped object. The top is flat and not carved. The back is flat and not carved. If you're going to go to the trouble you might consider another kit.
    I kind of figured as much, but still curious. I have an IV kit on the way soon, this looks like something I could experiment with.

  5. #4
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    The IV F style kit?
    "It's comparable to playing a cheese slicer."
    --M. Stillion

    "Bargain instruments are no bargains if you can't play them"
    --J. Garber

  6. #5
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    I have been offering A and F style rims and necks for almost 10 years...
    kterry

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  8. #6

    Default Re: cheap build kit

    And don’t omit the Sunburst and Fern Inlay by the Numbers accessory kit.

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  10. #7
    small instrument, big fun Dan in NH's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Based on this thread I watched a couple of Building a Mandolin Kit videos on YouTube.

    Presuming that, since these people have a full wood shop with pro grade tools, they know what they’re doing, the results were… ugly. Just a really ugly, unattractive instrument.
    Eastman MD-514 (F body, Sitka & maple, oval hole)
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    And still saving my nickels & dimes & bottle caps & breakfast cereal box tops for my lifetime mandolin.

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  12. #8
    Registered User urobouros's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    I think applying finish is one of the hardest skills in woodworking. I'm just a hobbyist but have yet to find an "easy" finish but I usually chalk that up to user errors I think, for most people, the aim in building a mandolin should be to enjoy the process but not expect a high end instrument when you're done.
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  14. #9
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    I bought one of those on ebay a few years back, but with the neck attached, for ~$120. Basically I had to apply a finish and attach the hardware. It was kind of fun. The top and back on mine are arched and I think the linked item is for the same product. For what it is, at $120 it's not terrible. It has some funny build quirks- for instance the kerfing is just a thin strip of bamboo. But it's all good I'm not afraid to leave it in the truck in a travelite. The sound & playability are not as bad as they should be- better than a laminate Kay I own, for example. I would call it an excellent first instrument on an extreme budget.

    Funny thing, I was surfing ebay not long after I got it and saw someone selling the same product, assembled & with a sunburst as a "vintage mandolin, unknown maker" for something like $2700. I certainly hope no one fell for that.
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  16. #10

    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Quote Originally Posted by MikeEdgerton View Post
    The IV F style kit?
    International Violin F5 kit.

  17. #11
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Quote Originally Posted by Dconaway View Post
    International Violin F5 kit.
    Ken sources his F kits from an unknown source but if you're looking for some experience before you start that kit consider a Saga AM-10 A style kit. You can get some useful experience and still send up with a decent solid wood mandolin for a little more than the one you're looking at. Here is one source but they should be available elsewhere as well.
    "It's comparable to playing a cheese slicer."
    --M. Stillion

    "Bargain instruments are no bargains if you can't play them"
    --J. Garber

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  19. #12
    Registered User bennyb's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Looks like IV is selling the A style kit for $150.

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  21. #13

    Default Re: cheap build kit

    where can I find those at? if this is repeated my apologies.

  22. #14
    Moderator MikeEdgerton's Avatar
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    Default Re: cheap build kit

    Quote Originally Posted by Dconaway View Post
    where can I find those at? if this is repeated my apologies.
    https://www.internationalviolin.com/...in-kit-a-model

    The IV A style kit is the Saga kit. If he has it in stock that would be a good price.
    "It's comparable to playing a cheese slicer."
    --M. Stillion

    "Bargain instruments are no bargains if you can't play them"
    --J. Garber

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