51 style P-body weight question.

[telepbrman]

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.

[jordan_frerichs]

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

[jordan_frerichs]

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

[Rodent]

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

[telepbrman]

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