I didn’t get as much done on the fretboards as i would have liked last week, but i did get them prepped for slotting. We just couldn’t find the proper wrenches to change the blade on the table saw.

So instead, i spent time carving and shaping the neck heel on Proto 2.

Proto 1 and Proto 2 inched one step closer to completion over the weekend, with the neck joints being drilled, T-nuts inserted and a test bolt-up of the necks and bodies.

This is the first time we’ve actually been able to sit down with both of these body styles as (more or less) actual instruments. The ergonomics are fantastic, even without the neck and body carves done. Balance seems to be excellent, and playing position of the Javelin in a seated position is perfect.

The Aviator is stunningly lightweight, though the white limba body and neck is quite soft, and this guitar will require a good hard clearcoat to keep it from damage.

The Javelin is the complete opposite… the solid East Indian rosewood neck and 2″ thick figured walnut body make for a hefty instrument. But it’s important to note that neither the neck nor body have been carved yet, so it will likely lose about 1/3 of its mass. (We have some fairly dramatic carving ideas for these bodies.)

Stay tuned!

One feature that’s popular among some players is a “kill” switch on their guitars. This allows the momentary interruption of the signal by connecting the signal to ground using a pushbutton. Specifically, it’s a Single-Pole Single-Throw (SPST) Normally Open (NO) Momentary (MOM) Switch.

I have an interesting electronics/surplus store nearby, and while rummaging through the bins there, i came across these: