Gibson F-2 Mandolin Repair Question

I have a Gibson F-2 mandolin that was made in 1914 and has been in my family since about 1920. It's in very good shape except for the neck which is slightly bowed. There is hardly any day light between the strings and the first fret while the 19th fret has a smooch more than 1/8th" clearance. My question is: how can this be corrected? Do you raise the nut and lower the bridge, or shave the neck down smooth and start over, or what? On the other hand, does it need fixing? Should I just leave it alone and enjoy it as is? I started playing the mandolin about six months ago and am still trying to figure it out so I might be making a mountain out of a mole hill.

Tags: Petaluma Mandolin

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Permalink Reply by Ned Knepp on April 8, 2013 at 10:45am

Sorry, David, it seems that I misunderstood. I though you said the string height was 1/8 at the 19th fret instead of the 12th fret. You are taking it to the right people.

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Permalink Reply by David A Spriggs on April 8, 2013 at 10:53am

Actually, it's about 1/8" at both the 12th and 19th fret. I called Gryphon and talked to them about it and will be taking it to them in the near future. Thanks.