Locke vs KNE for 5150 build

**ledvedder** · 01.10.21, 07:27 PM

I'm considering starting a 5150 build. I'm just curious which supplier everyone prefers. It looks like KNE's prices are a bit less than Locke's. But, of course, that doesn't necessarily mean one is better than the other.

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**Jedi McFly** · 01.10.21, 07:54 PM

I know Brett is a big fan of KNE’s products. I used a body of theirs for my first Frankie about 10 years ago and it worked out great.

But all my bodies since have been Locke and I couldn’t be happier with them.

So in summary: both solid companies and you’ll likely be pleased with whichever one you end up choosing.

**ledvedder** · 01.10.21, 08:19 PM

Originally Posted by Jedi McFly

I know Brett is a big fan of KNE’s products. I used a body of theirs for my first Frankie about 10 years ago and it worked out great.

But all my bodies since have been Locke and I couldn’t be happier with them.

So in summary: both solid companies and you’ll likely be pleased with whichever one you end up choosing.

What wood did you choose for your 5150? It looks amazing, BTW!

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**Jedi McFly** · 01.10.21, 11:49 PM

Thanks!

I used Swamp Ash. Here’s some of my reasoning behind that choice. Here’s my build thread and here’s a clip of it in action...

For templates I’d check the Van Halen Kramer 5150 Replicas Facebook group. I made templates about 18 years ago that had some errors. Another guy named Brian Cazell updated them to be more accurate and easier to use. Do a search in the FB group for them.

**Dutchie5150** · 01.11.21, 09:53 AM

I've used Locke bodies for my last 4 EVH builds and they are amazing. I use Musikraft necks too

I've heard nothing but good things about KNE's stuff though. I will get around to using his stuff one day.

**Jedi McFly** · 01.11.21, 12:26 PM

Originally Posted by Dutchie5150

I've used Locke bodies for my last 4 EVH builds and they are amazing. I use Musikraft necks too

I've heard nothing but good things about KNE's stuff though. I will get around to using his stuff one day.

KNE makes Frankenbass bodies. I’ve been tempted to start one of those before.

**AFU** · 01.12.21, 12:00 PM

Originally Posted by Jedi McFly

I know Brett is a big fan of KNE’s products. I used a body of theirs for my first Frankie about 10 years ago and it worked out great.

But all my bodies since have been Locke and I couldn’t be happier with them.

So in summary: both solid companies and you’ll likely be pleased with whichever one you end up choosing.

This.

**DJK** · 01.12.21, 06:32 PM

I'm looking to have a custom Frankie built (not as handy myself). Do you have any builders you'd recommend?

**MD 5150** · 01.12.21, 07:12 PM

Anyone use Locke necks? KNE back to building bodies, but not necks. Locke builds both if willing to wait.

**Brett** · 01.12.21, 08:42 PM

KNE does necks and they’re awesome. Almost all my guitars have them.

**ledvedder** · 01.12.21, 08:45 PM

KNE isn't doing necks currently.

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**MD 5150** · 01.12.21, 09:04 PM

Originally Posted by Brett

KNE does necks and they’re awesome. Almost all my guitars have them.

Mitch is currently only doing bodies, working on getting neck line up and running on a regular and consistent basis.

Brett your guitars look awesome. After watching your covers, KNE guitars and necks look and sound great.

**Brett** · 01.13.21, 07:57 AM

Originally Posted by MD 5150

Mitch is currently only doing bodies, working on getting neck line up and running on a regular and consistent basis.

Brett your guitars look awesome. After watching your covers, KNE guitars and necks look and sound great.

He is? Huh I haven’t talk to him in a while.

Thanks man really appreciate it.