Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

osgoor · Post by **osgoor** » Mon Mar 19, 2012 2:33 pm

I am reading the instructions and am very clear on how the kerfing is installed. No where did I see anything mentioned about if the kerfing should but up to the sides of the head and tail block or if there is any gap. Since nothing is mentioned I assume I should butt it up to the blocks, correct?

Dave Bagwill · Post by **Dave Bagwill** » Mon Mar 19, 2012 2:43 pm

There are some luthiers that intentionally leave a small gap, reasoning that the gap eliminates the possibility of a rattle or a squeak of the kerfing against the block.

I've always gone right up to the block and haven't had a problem. But a gap is not a big deal.

ken cierp · Post by **ken cierp** » Mon Mar 19, 2012 2:46 pm

Here's three of many pictures in the KMG manual and on the KMG website in the RR kerfing articles, all show it butted -- not sure why a gap makes any sense? So any glue joint is a potential squeak or rattle? -- I think not. A gap however would not degrade the structure.

osgoor · Post by **osgoor** » Mon Mar 19, 2012 5:48 pm

Thanks Ken. I did see the pictures but wanted to confirm

ken cierp · Post by **ken cierp** » Mon Mar 19, 2012 6:08 pm

Snugging up those tight fitting inside butt joints also give a chance to work on one's craftsmanship. There's some makers that really work extremely fine on the interior - inlay and all!

David L · Post by **David L** » Fri Mar 23, 2012 6:49 pm

I alwats butt mine!

David L

Acoustic Guitar Construction

Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Re: Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Re: Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Re: Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Re: Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks

Re: Kerfing gap at head and tail blocks