Neck Questions - knots\marks\grain

[mcentee2]

Hi,

Just bought a new neck from a parts supplier and have a couple of questions.

1) It is flatsawn (horizontal parallel at the heel) and shows what I think is a nice grain pattern - is this ok though as most other necks I have had are fairly uniform in colour/pattern. Other threads I have read seem to suggest it is fine so I won't lose sleep on this one!




2) However there is a small "knot" or "mark" at the 18th fret which I am unsure of.

It is visible, but not able to be felt (i.e it is under the lacquer, not "proud"), but *does* seem to go through the whole neck and appear at the back, in the heel area in roughly the same spot and same size\colour.

is it something to be worried about ?

(The mark next to the knot is under the lacquer and can't be felt).



3) There is a very small chip n the lower side near 11th fret - again it doesn't rub my fingers - is it likely to get worse ? is it something you would return the neck for or live with if the rest of the neck was fine ?




Any other comments suggestions welcome of course - many thanks.

[Tuxedo Poly]

Variations in woodgrain are acceptable IMHO but knots and chips definitely not.
If you are happy to keep it contact the seller and request a replacement. They will most likely offer a discount and the chip would make it a fairly substantial discount.

[mcentee2]

Originally Posted by Tuxedo Poly

Variations in woodgrain are acceptable IMHO but knots and chips definitely not.
If you are happy to keep it contact the seller and request a replacement. They will most likely offer a discount and the chip would make it a fairly substantial discount.

Good call - I contacted the supplier and can go and take my pick from their stock! I am sure this one was a one off.

[KokoTele]

If you got a neck from Allparts or something in that range, or even a Fender, flatsawn wood and the occasional small knot are not totally uncommon. They only make money if they sell as much of the wood they buy as they can, and that includes pieces that aren't perfect. That small knot is likely to be only a cosmetic issue, and not cause any structural issues in the neck. Quartersawn necks that are totally without any defects in the wood are a premium item, and you should expect to pay more for them.

The chip in the finish, however, is unacceptable at any price range in a new neck. Glad to hear the supplier is making good on this for you.