Body Dimensions for a 1920s Gibson L-5?

[iim7V7IM7]

I wonder if those who own a vintage Type 1 (1923-1924) or Type 2 (1925-1930) 16” L5s could provide me with some measurements. I see different #s online depending on where I look.

Body Length - Not Listed
Upper Bout Width - Not Listed
Waist Width - Not Listed
Lower Bout Width (I see 16” to 16-1/8”)
Rim Depth (I see 3-1/4” to 3-3/8”)
Overall Length (I see 40-1/4” to 40-1/2”)

Thanks!

[Woody Sound]

I used to own a '24, but I never measured it (stupid).



Try checking with these people:

https://prewargibsonl-5.com/

[FourOnSix]

I used to own a '24, but I never measured it (stupid).

The fact that you never measured it is not stupid at all.

The fact that you used to own it, well ...

Sorry, just giving you a hard time.

[Woody Sound]

The fact that you never measured it is not stupid at all.

The fact that you used to own it, well ...

Sorry, just giving you a hard time.

Well I agree with you. I just couldn't get on with the big fat tree trunk V neck. Considering it's value, I just could not keep it. Was in the middle of a masters degree program and I needed a car.

[deacon Mark]

Contact Paul Alcantara at the prewargibson L5 sight. He has a whole bunch of information and site that keeps track of things like this. He is very knowledgeable and good and returning email.
prewargibsonl-5.com

[iim7V7IM7]

I used the contact email on that site and asked (thanks). I am just at the beginning of a custom commission process with a luthier and was looking for some historic accurate information. I am not sure if the site email goes to Paul (sallyjaynehall@btinternet.com) but it is what I used.

[deacon Mark]

I used the contact email on that site and asked (thanks). I am just at the beginning of a custom commission process with a luthier and was looking for some historic accurate information. I am not sure if the site email goes to Paul (sallyjaynehall@btinternet.com) but it is what I used.

Here paul alcantara

p.alcantara@btinternet.com

[iim7V7IM7]

Thank you!

Paul responded and will be getting back to me with information…

[iim7V7IM7]

Received some body measurements on a 1925 Gibson L5 today from Paul Alcantara:

20-1/4” Body Length
11-5/8” Upper Bout Width
9-11/32” Waist Width
16-7/32” Lower Bout Width
3-11/32” Rim Depth

Like all things “wood” large dimensions are likely +/- 1/16”.

[deacon Mark]

Received some body measurements on a 1925 Gibson L5 today from Paul Alcantara:

20-1/4” Body Length
11-5/8” Upper Bout Width
9-11/32” Waist Width
16-7/32” Lower Bout Width
3-11/32” Rim Depth

Like all things “wood” large dimensions are likely +/- 1/16”.

you need the dimensions of my 1938 L5 is sounds like a cannon and smooth too. It of course is a 17 inch guitar

[iim7V7IM7]

Thanks for your kind offer, but I am having a 1920s Loar-esque instrument built.

you need the dimensions of my 1938 L5 is sounds like a cannon and smooth too. It of course is a 17 inch guitar