MIMF

Thanks for all the info/suggestions, folks. I decided that rather than hack at the bridge-in-hand, or trying to recess it in some way, or (shudder) remove and re-set the neck, I ordered that Schaller roller bridge. I know that a Lester should have some variation on a TOM bridge, but it really doesn't upset me at all to have a "fender" style bridge instead. The Schaller measures .466" so it's really a perfect size for this build. I seem to have a few more builds in my head, so I'll get another chance to take a crack at getting this neck-angle process worked out and use the bridge and tailpiece that I have.

Thanks for all the info and suggestions. Rather than hack up the bridge-in-hand, or cut a recess for it, or <shudder> removing and re-setting the neck, I decided to go with the Schaller roller bridge mentioned above. I know a Lester-style guitar should have a TOM-style bridge, but that doesn't worry me overmuch. I've never been much of a purist! I have enough builds in the queue in my head that I'll have more chances to get this neck-angle thing mastered, and will have other opportunities to use this bridge.

The Schaller bridge comes in at .466" so it's really the perfect height for the current geometry.

Another idea,
Recess the bridge into the body but install 6-32 but inserts into the body for the bridge studs. Order 6-32 set screws with Allen key heads and 6-32 locking nuts from McmasrCarr. Adjust the bridge height via the set screws.

Mark Wybierala wrote:Another idea,
Recess the bridge into the body but install 6-32 but inserts into the body for the bridge studs. Order 6-32 set screws with Allen key heads and 6-32 locking nuts from McmasrCarr. Adjust the bridge height via the set screws.

Thanks, Mark - good suggestion. Unfortunately, I've already drilled for the Schaller roller bridge, so I'm going to continue down that path. Will tuck that excellent suggestion away for future use though!

Did you get a response from Babizc Full Contact Hardware?
It has been a while since I used their T.O.M. style bridge, and the guitar it was on has been sold, other wise I would have given you the measurements.

Gordon Bellerose wrote:Did you get a response from Babizc Full Contact Hardware?
It has been a while since I used their T.O.M. style bridge, and the guitar it was on has been sold, other wise I would have given you the measurements.

I did, and their measurements would be too tall without making the same kind of modifications I would have needed to do with other TOM-style bridges. They do make nice stuff though! Tempted to design a future build around one of their bridges!

I have used their bridges on a half dozen or more guitars, and have been very satisfied with them.
Players love them, as there are no sharp screws to bother the heel of your hand.
I like them to work on too.
The tone I get is an improvement also.

I know I have talked about them a lot on this forum, but I am not getting an endorsement!
Wish I was!