1930s Strad-O-Lin (United) Archtop A-Style Mandolin

Overview: Who doesn't like a Strad-O-Lin? This one's on the earlier side for their f-hole builds and has ladder bracing (vs tonebar), the older-style headstock script and design, and a good, rough and ready look about it. The tone is as you'd expect -- punchy and a bit on the dry and woody side -- and just what you want!


Interesting features: The darker sunburst finish contrasts nicely with the little "purfling" line around the top edge. This particular instrument has a back that's been replaced with a piece of flamed maple (apparently the original was quite damaged) and I think it actually gives the instrument a little more warmth than it otherwise would have as the replacement back is flat and solid and not press-arched plywood.


Repairs included: Tim gave it a level/dress of the frets, repaired some seams on the back, repaired a couple of small top cracks either side of the tailpiece, cleaned it up, adjusted the fit of the replacement bridge, and set it up. It's playing spot-on and ready to go.

  • Weight: 1 lb 10 oz
  • Scale length: 13 3/4"
  • Nut width: 1 3/16"
  • Neck shape: med C
  • Board radius: flat
  • Depth at first fret: 55/64"
  • Depth at seventh fret: 15/16"
  • Body width: 9 3/4"
  • Body depth: 1 3/4"
  • Top wood: solid spruce
  • Back & sides wood: solid maple
  • Bracing type: ladder
  • Bridge: rosewood
  • Fretboard: rosewood or similar
  • Neck wood: poplar or maple
  • Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
  • String gauges: 36w-10 lights
  • Truss rod: non-adjustable
  • Neck relief: straight
  • Fret style: low/small

Condition notes: The back is a replacement piece of flamed maple. It has a replacement bridge and Tim added some side dots and a new bone nut. Otherwise, it's original throughout. There's wear and tear throughout the finish and it has some weather-check to boot. There's a repaired pair of hairline cracks on the top to either side of the tailpiece and they're good to go. 


It comes with: It has a funky old chip case that's not much to write home about.


Consignor tag: WNDL
















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