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I had a conversation with a guy about 6 months ago. This customer was extremely odd/crazy. The conversation was highlighted by constant interruptions from the individual. He would ask a question then I would proceed to answer and then get cut short. I can't emphasize how odd the whole things was. But he asked me if I could build a left-handed guitar and I said that would be no problem. He then asked if I had ever built one before because they were very difficult to build. I mentioned that to my knowledge, the bridge just needs to be reversed (my bracing is symmetrical so no modification needed there) and my neck profile is also symmetrical. In terms of construction, it seems extremely straightforward. But he swore that I was wrong and that you have to do "something" to the neck because left-handed guitars play differently.

I think the guy was insane. Every scientific sensibility in my body thinks the guy was insane. He also tried to convert me to a Jehovah's Witness at the end of the conversation and I had to literally hang the phone up on him at the end. Like I said -- craazzzyy!!

So is there more to a left-handed guitar besides reversing left/right? Was I wrong?

Thanks,
Simon

Symmetrical bracing, huh? Now we know the secret to your sound!
My first guitar was for a Southpaw, and as the bracing was NOT symmetrical, that was the only difference. Well, that and the bridge. And you'll want to watch the location of the pickguard if one is used. And of course the nut will be backward.
And the neck will be different only if he wants it asymmetrical.

Other than those easily altered aspects, these guitars are identical.

But don't tell him that. Tell him that you use your left-handed chisels, saws with the teeth set to the right, and backward squares. Also arrange your logo as a mirror image of itself.

I.e., he's nuts.

Steve

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From Nacogdoches...the oldest town in Texas.

http://www.stephenkinnaird.com

Some customers are more fun than others. Loved at times listening to the boss talk to them. More patience than me. I am old and cranky, so I just tell them to go find someone else after awhile. Well, unless I know they have cash and want to spend it, then I am old and nice.

I have found however, some of the ones who argue, and argue, or know all the answers don't want to spend the money. They can be more pain. than worth. I then get to the point of asking if they have all the answers, why are they calling me.


You should have explained another difference was the rosette had to be inlaid backwards, along with the bridge pins.

I would have told him the top and bottom would need to be reversed.
Or that I would need wood from the south side of the tree instead of the north.
Have fun with the morons, or just blow them off.

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"Act your age, not your shoe size" - Prince

The guy was a total ass -- I wouldn't have built him a guitar for a 100 acre lot in El Dorado. Just wanted to make sure I was right

Thanks for the input guys and Filippo - that is one beautiful looking guitar!!!