[Guitars44me]

There are a LOT of single bench Luthier built and small shop instruments in the FS listings!

Here is my long list of questions to ask any prospective seller. BTW, I learned to ask these the hard way, for every question! Sheesh. I suggest copy and save to notes, etc.

If anyone does not want to answer or talk on the phone about the instrument with it in hand, I suggest just pass...

Do you have a really good Luthier to inspect and dial anything in for your playing style? If not it is time to find one. Juggling used guitars is a lot easier than cars, for example! But they almost always need SOMTHING!

I hope these help! If we all asked these there would be a lot less headaches! Haha

My usual questions. Please disregard any you already answered.

Has this been completely inspected by a GOOD Luthier?

If not, Please put on inspection goggles. (Not beer goggles). Haha.

And PLEASE INSPECT ENTIRE INSTRUMENT CLOSELY.

Year built?

Please post or send clear closeup pics of any and all dings, cracks, finish issues etc.

Is the neck angle correct? Please check with a straight- edge laying on the frets. It should just clear the top of the bridge/bottom of the exposed saddle.

What is the action (string height above fret) at the first and 12th fret ?

How much Saddle showing?

Is the top sunken above the bridge or bellied behind it?

Fret dress needed, or needed soon?

Is the intonation correct? Open strings in tune should match at 12th fret.

Any mods or repairs besides pickup if it has one?

Pup Year and manufacturer? And does it work properly?

Neck set needed?
Is the neck, not the relief, straight and true?
Any (other) cracks in the wood, or the finish?

Braces, binding, frets and bridge all secure and tightly glued? Please inspect closely! Especially the bindings at the waist.

Any cracks, dings or scratches not visible in the photos?
Any rattles, buzzes, or unwanted noises when played moderately?
Any high frets?
Tuners smooth, with no slippage?


Original case? in good Condition? All latches work as intended and no funky smells, or other issues?

So, is this ready to go to work without a trip to my Luthier?

I always ask as I have had these (and more) issues on seemingly nice internet instruments!