Astracaster First Build FS-1

[fender3x]

I have built a couple of basses that are similar (ESB-4 types), and yours looks pretty close. The real test is when you string it, so you may want to make that part of your dry-fit. You want to make sure that everything lines up. The strings should go over the screws on the pickups. The strings should be the proper height over the pickups. the string length should be right to the bridge. If all that checks out then life is good ;-)

I had sort of promised myself no more guitars with binding or veneer...but yours looks very cool and has had the unfortunate consequence of activating my GAS ;-) Glad it came through customs OK. I am sure that Adam will get back to you about the file. Fortunately, you don't use it until you are most of the way through the build so it has a little time to get there.

[Drashkum]

Welcome Drashkum, the neck fit has been asked about before and have these pics of my finished FS.

Yours looks as it should. The 'bump' on the high e side of the neck heel can be flattened with a medium to smooth file if needed.
As you are planning on staining, remember to not put stain or top coat finish on the neck heel or pocket where they are glued together.
There is a build diary somewhere.
https://www.buildyourownguitar.com.a...ead.php?t=7401

Grant

Thank you for the link. I just read through your entire build diary. That was one cool build. And Thank you for those pics. It gives me a lot of confidence to go about the build.

I am not sure if I should sand the high E bump in the neck or to file it. I am a orthopaedic surgeon. I have bone working skills. This is my first time with wood although the skill sets are similar 🤣

I have a few specific questions.
If sanding - what grit am I supposed to use?
If filing - what sort of a file I should buy? Can someone put up a reference picture or a pic of the file that you guys have?

I have built a couple of basses that are similar (ESB-4 types), and yours looks pretty close. The real test is when you string it, so you may want to make that part of your dry-fit. You want to make sure that everything lines up. The strings should go over the screws on the pickups. The strings should be the proper height over the pickups. the string length should be right to the bridge. If all that checks out then life is good ;-)

I had sort of promised myself no more guitars with binding or veneer...but yours looks very cool and has had the unfortunate consequence of activating my GAS ;-) Glad it came through customs OK. I am sure that Adam will get back to you about the file. Fortunately, you don't use it until you are most of the way through the build so it has a little time to get there.

Thank you. I have noted down all that you have said in the post. I have just got a 100cm Straight edge / ruler, Caliper and 0000 steelwool today. Before trying a mock fit with string I want to sand the neck in such a way it snug fits into the neck pocket. Will try a mock fit with strings as soon as it is possible and will keep you posted sir.
Yes it is indeed a nice kit. Happy that I came through the customs. I am glad you like it. I see so many builders like you doing a fantastic job. As a newbie to this sometimes it becomes so overwhelming. I hope I persevere and do a decent job with this with all your help

Mr. Adam has not got back to me yet. May be he is held up in clearing the shipment. Will try to Mail him today again.

Updates on the build

Have ordered a Piezo Tunomatic bridge and Artec MB1 and it has already shipped.

I also got my shipment of Long 100cm Ruler /straightedge, Caliper for measurement today