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How to build a bass guitar – Routing the neck pocket into the body – Part 1

In this part of our build-a-bass series, an example of how to route a neck pocket into body is done using a 5-string layout with a short neck. Even though this is atypical compared to a standard 4-string body with long scale 34-inch neck, the process is still the same when it comes to getting that pocket into the body.

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Above: The body blank seen has been already rough-cut due to the fact it is repurposed wood from other build projects. What is seen is actually two pieces that are glued together with a plan on top as a guide. The blank is held securely in place with clamps at two positions so it stays put. The third clamp is holding the neck in place.

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Above: Straight edges have been added on either side of the neck to ensure the straightest possible mount. Note that there is an additional smaller clamp on the fretboard, which is not holding the straight edge but rather a small piece of wood used as a platform for the straight edges. The straight edges are not clamped on the other side so adjustments can be made if need be.

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Above: Measurements are being checked to make sure everything lines up with the centerline. Specifically, the straight edges are being checked so that they are equidistant from the center.

Additional note: The pickup layout on paper you see is in fact correct. The straight edges are hiding the ends of the pickup drawn on the plan, but yes, they are present.

Once all measurements check out, the neck is then further clamped down so it absolutely will not move (up until this point it was allowed to have some slight play).

Coming up: The routing template gets adhered, neck is removed and the pocket gets routed out.

Where are the rest of the build steps?
You can view them all here.

1 thought on “How to build a bass guitar – Routing the neck pocket into the body – Part 1”

  1. This is very informative I was wondering how to set up for routing the neck the only thing I am not sure of is how deep to route the neck pocket so the strings are at the right height for the bridge engagement.
    Thanks very much,

    Rich

    Reply

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