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Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
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Author:  Casey Cochran [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 1:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
What are the pros and cons of each? Reasons for Martin's use of each and timelines?
Author:  Greg B [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 2:00 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
It's possible to make a cut through with a saw and small chisel. No router needed, which is likely why they're seen in older guitars. On the down side, they must be glued in.

I have no idea of any possible sonic differences.
Author:  jfmckenna [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 2:32 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
I don't see why you would have to glue it in. I've built many classical guitars and a few steel string guitars with bridges like this and never glued in the saddle. But I do have an old Manuel Contreras guitar where the saddle is actually finished in which will make it a PIA if it ever needs repair. Though that guitar is over 50 years old.
Author:  Greg B [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 3:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
jfmckenna wrote:
I don't see why you would have to glue it in.


I guess that's true, it's just traditionally they were glued in - on SS anyway. Seems like without glue they'd have a greater chance of cracking the front part of the bridge off? Routed saddle slots are inherently more reinforced by the wood around the saddle.
Author:  Haans [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 3:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
No question that drop in is better for the long term strength. Wouldn't use anything else.
Author:  Tom West [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 6:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
Some folks like the look and tradition of the through saddle. Some say that glued in through saddles produce an enhanced sound. I use the drop it exclusively mainly because I think it is stronger. John Arnold, John Hall or Mario Proulx are good sources of info re: benefits and timelines. Another good source is the Unofficial Martin Guitar Forum.
Tom
Author:  nickton [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 7:14 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
I've heard the cut in style is harder to make and thus more "craftsman like". They do look cool. And the idea they're made neatly by hand is impressive to many I'm sure. Haven't tried one yet but I used to think they'd be easier. Doing anything with perfect precision and a hand saw requires time earned hand skills.
Author:  uvh sam [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 8:19 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
Here is a link that explains the history
http://earlymartin.com/saddles.html
Author:  bluescreek [ Mon Feb 24, 2014 8:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Let's talk saddles: cut through vs. drop in
the through saddle was made with a special saw. Yes it does have to be glued in for strength. If you don't expect the bridge to split. The were after the war and then Martin went to the drop. I am not sure the period when they stopped but in fact the drop in was done in the 1800's I have a 1856 Martin and it has a drop in but there are wings on the saddle that fit over the slot to appear like a through.
Martin also did a drop in through saddle. I prefer the drop in for stability and ease of saddle adjustment.
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