Fret job?

[sooperunkn]

I've got a 1978 les paul with a bound neck and I think she needs a fret job. I've had the guitar 14 years and have never treated the frets. I have the occasional dead note and overall the frets are pretty worn so I think its time.

I want to put stock nickel fretwire back in. What am I expecting as far as cost goes? I think bound necks are more difficult/expensive but I'm not sure how much more. I just want to have an idea on the cost before I start shopping around.

 

[rspst14]

Re: Fret job?

Typically, a bound neck refret will run $250 to $300. It varies a lot based on your location as well, I've heard of people in New York and LA paying considerably more in some cases. Bound necks require the fret tang to be nipped near the fret ends, which takes longer. If you want the binding nubs recreated at the fret ends, it may cost a bit more. The most important thing is to find a good luthier who does this kind of thing on a regular basis. This is one of those times when it's not a good idea to go to the guy with the lowest price, unless you're absolutely sure he's going to do a top-notch job.

Ryan

 

[theodie]

Re: Fret job?

Typically, a bound neck refret will run $250 to $300. It varies a lot based on your location as well, I've heard of people in New York and LA paying considerably more in some cases. Bound necks require the fret tang to be nipped near the fret ends, which takes longer. If you want the binding nubs recreated at the fret ends, it may cost a bit more. The most important thing is to find a good luthier who does this kind of thing on a regular basis. This is one of those times when it's not a good idea to go to the guy with the lowest price, unless you're absolutely sure he's going to do a top-notch job.

Ryan

I second Ryan's Advice.

 

[sooperunkn]

Re: Fret job?

Thanks for the advice guys. One of the reasons I've waited so long is that I'm afraid some hack will mess it up. I've definitely took some time locating the right guy. We'll see...

 

[Hellion]

Re: Fret job?

The price varies greatly but so far the responses ahead of me sound accurate. I would look for a luthier that is authorized for Gibson repairs. I think you'd stand a better chance of finding someone that won't butcher the job.