Thoughts on a 4pc back

[KingCavalier]

Hello all,

I'm working on the back for my next build. Because of the location of the two out side joints I was going to use a back strip.


I don't mind the 4 pc if the "ears" fall out past the waist but as you can see I would need the back strip to make that happen. Without the strip the joints are just inside the waist. Honestly, I would rather not use the back strip.

I'm concerned about the integrity of the joints because they are so close to he waist. Do you think that will be a problem.

I would appreciate any and all thoughts, comments etc.

Scott

[ZekeM]

Hey scott, something is not working with your picture. I don't see any issues with a 3 or 4 piece back. They have been done many times before and as long as you have good glue joints then there should be no issues with structural integrity. If ya get that pic working though it would be good to see exactly what ya are talkin bout.

[redir]

I've built about 20 or more guitars with 4 piece backs. No problems at all. Just use a cross grain strip over the joint on the inside like you would with any center strip. If you use cut offs from the same side or back material then it hides it too if you prefer that look.

[KingCavalier]

I'll try another pic...why do I always mess this up!

[gitnoob]

I only have one with a 4-piece back. It's Ziricote, and almost impossible to tell that it's 4 pieces -- very good grain match.

[Tom West]

There was a time in the past that LMI was selling Madagascar sets with 4 peice backs. Excellent wood and most sets you could not see the joints.
Tom