Gibson L-30
 

I would like to build a Gibson L-30, based on an L-00 plan.
The depth of the body is a difficult thing, however, as the info I find on the net is very different.
Anyone own a pre-war Gibson L-30? I would like to know the exact body depth, measured at the neck and at the heel.
Thanks in advance!

Hi, I have a 1938 L30, which I have just checked.

Body depth at heel is 8.1 cm
Body depth at tail is 9.25 cm

I has, as you might know, a flat back.

I love mine.

Finally someone who owns an L-30.. Thanks, Spats!

I had an L-37 for a while, which is basically an L-30. I liked it a lot, but wanted a bit more of what it had. I ended up selling it and missed it. I then bought and still own a 1934 L-75, with the same small lower bout as the L-00 and L-30. The L-75 has a 4 1/8" lower bout vs. the narrower 3". The back is solid mahogany like a L-00. The braces are straight and not kerfed. This guitar has a punchy but sweet sound and is a joy to play. I have Martin Monel lights on it, which feel and sound great. I think more guitars like this should be made. While the small size is comfortable, I do think it would sound a little more full if it was closer to an OM size. Another possible tweak would be to make it a 13 or 12 fretter, like some of those 1920s archtops.