Bridge pin hole layout

[Kyle Barbour]

What's everyone's thoughts on this. There are several common layout patterns that we see. The pins in a straight line following the angle of the saddle and pins in a straight line perpendicular to the centerline of the top are the two most common. Then you have the pins in a semi circular pattern usually following the contours of the bridge, which I like visually. Is there any affect in this spacing from the saddle to the pins creating the string angle? Is there an optimum spacing that we should be shooting for? What are your thoughts?

[ken cierp]

Doubtful there is a "best" pattern. I like to have the holes parallel to the saddle slot about 3/8" back. I suppose this helps to prevent cracks since it tends to move the holes off a common grain line. Easy to get a uniform break angles for all strings -- I always use chamfered ramps.

http://kennethmichaelguitars.com/bridgeprep.html