First build advice

[McCreed]

Tru-Oil has a slight yellow tinge. This will alter your pink colour, so you need to be prepared this will happen.

Good point Fretworn. I can't picture what that might look like, but we've all seen examples of blue turning green with Tru Oil.
Worth doing some test pieces if you can get some scraps of ash. If not, Tasmanian Oak might work as a readily available substitute.

I have invested in a few tools, particularly for doing the frets. So I will have them, just no experience using them yet. I think I may grab one of the real cheap ebay necks to experiment with before starting the real one just to build some confidence.

An excellent approach. That's how a lot people get started (myself included).

[Zakkary123]

Good point about the Tru Oil colour, what would a clearer option be to go over a stain? Would just wipe on poly work for that?

[McCreed]

Good point about the Tru Oil colour, what would a clearer option be to go over a stain? Would just wipe on poly work for that?

Yep, poly has a more neutral effect on timber colour.

[Zakkary123]

Thanks mate.

Quick question, I assume with ST style bodies I can upgrade pots etc. to full size CTS without issue? I know there can be issues on other styles because of the routs but there's no specific pot rout here is that correct?

[McCreed]

The width of the route should be fine for full size (24mm) pots.
However, check the depth if you're going to use any push-pull pots or a non-import blade switch (Fender, Gotoh, CRL, Oak Grigsby). I think the kit routes tend to be shallower than "licensed" bodies like Warmouth, WD etc.

[Sonic Mountain]

I've only done one strat, but I think you'll be alright, there is a fair bit of cavity space. I'd also probably give the kit gear a go before upgrading. The one I built sounded great.


Looks like plenty of space to me



Finished