Recessed Bridges

[jessejames]

What is your technique on doing this? I've only practiced it twice, but I'm not getting it perfect. I would like not to angle the necks so much on my TOM bridge guitars.

I have so far tried using my paddle bit to get the rounded edges then using a straight edge with my router, but I can't get it perfect. I can get it close, but if it isn't perfect then it looks like crap.

Just wondering how you do it or if there is an easier way.

[guitar2005]

What is your technique on doing this? I've only practiced it twice, but I'm not getting it perfect. I would like not to angle the necks so much on my TOM bridge guitars.

I have so far tried using my paddle bit to get the rounded edges then using a straight edge with my router, but I can't get it perfect. I can get it close, but if it isn't perfect then it looks like crap.

Just wondering how you do it or if there is an easier way.

I just used a 1/2" router bit and an MDF template. Looks very nice IMO. I like it when the strings are close to the body so a recessed TOM is what I go for on most of my guitars (unless its an LP or arch top)

Edited December 15, 2010 by guitar2005

[jessejames]

What is your technique on doing this? I've only practiced it twice, but I'm not getting it perfect. I would like not to angle the necks so much on my TOM bridge guitars.

I have so far tried using my paddle bit to get the rounded edges then using a straight edge with my router, but I can't get it perfect. I can get it close, but if it isn't perfect then it looks like crap.

Just wondering how you do it or if there is an easier way.

I just used a 1/2" router bit and an MDF template. Looks very nice IMO. I like it when the strings are close to the body so a recessed TOM is what I go for on most of my guitars (unless its an LP or arch top)

Great work! did you make your own template or did you buy one?

[guitar2005]

I made my own template, as I usually do with all my guitars (except the tele I'm working on now).

Its pretty easy to make templates once you get the hang of it.

[ihocky2]

I do it the same way. Template with a 5/8" mortising bit in the router. My first was done with a forstner bit and a straight end for the router and I had the same problem. I could line it up close, but not perfect.

Some like the look or feel of a recessed TOM, others don't. I personally like they way they look and I like the strings closer to the body, but I prefer the feel of a TOM compared to a Fender style hardtail so for my tastes it is the perfect fit.