I really have no idea on what is a light weight body, so: If I was to buy an aftermarket 51 style P-body, what weight should I look for to get me a light weight bass? I've a CIJ neck, and I think total bass weight under 8lbs is light...anyhow, thanks for the time, dy.

i have heard light tuners will make a great deal of diference. then there are also chambered bodies. chambered bodies have bits and pieces routed out of non-vital area (almost anywhere but the center, where the neck, pups and bridge go), and then have a wooden top laminated to the top to hide the chambering. they are lighter, and play louder without an amp

as far as lighter woods go, ash is nice and light, and i believe most 51's were made from this. after that, alder is your best bet. are you building a 51' style bass, because this is the luthiering forum

I target 4.5 pounds for a 4-string body as optimal. anything under 4 pounds has potential for neck dive, anything over 5.25 pounds is going to be a back killer

keep in mind that your choice of headstock, tuners, and neck woods will also impact the ideal body target weight ... a 4.5 pound body will most likely be too light for a Purpleheart neck

all the best,

R

Great info on that gang, thanks so much...dy.