Official Luthiers Forum!

Anyone know of a tutorial on the web, or even just a few pics of jigs for putting the slots in a slotted headstock?

I've seen a couple of pics at the LMII site (I think it was there anyway). There's gotta be a couple of ways to skin this cat without laying down a bunch of cash for a pre-made jig.

How do you guys do it?

Hi Paul,
A couple of months ago I did a tutorial on slotted headstock jigs-it's in the archive.
Brad

Hi, Paul-
BTW, you can attach the slotting jig to the headstock with a couple of SHORT screws in the area that will be cut away for the 'ramps'. With the side pieces locking to the taper, it's very secure.

Similarly, a simple jig for cutting the side tapers can be affixed by screws in the area that will be cut away for the slots.

I sometimes have problems with clamps vibrating loose when I'm using the router, and find screws more secure.

Cheers
John

[QUOTE=ToddStock] If you are using individuasl tuners, drilling the holes with press is fine. If you are using three-on-a-plate tuners, a jig with very precise spacing is a good idea.
[/QUOTE]

Thanks Tod, I hadn't thought of the accuracy required for three on a plate tuners. In fact I'm building two 12 fret 000's and I was going to do one with individual tuners and the other with three on a plate. I'll have to factor that in when I make my jig. BTW you'll be happy to know the books been sent on.

Brad, that was exactly what I was looking for. I knew I'd seen a tutorial somewhere not too long ago. Yours was the one I've been trying to find, Thanks.

I have the jig from the luthier tool company, and I have to say this thing is great. It is pretty much idiot proof if you take the time to set it up carefully.

I know this isn't the question you asked, but if you are considering buying a tool... I highly recommend it.

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Brock Poling
Columbus, Ohio
http://www.polingguitars.com

Yes, the Luthier Tool jig is great. My only word of caution (and it's not the jig's fault) is that in the past I've bought 3 on a plate tuners with slightly irregularly spaced holes, so don't just assume the jig will put them in the right place.

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Pete
http://www.petewoodmanguitars.com