Can the F4 kit be modified to make a 3-point mandolin? Is it just simply adding another body point?
The 3-point mandolins were the predecessor to the later F-models and featured a rather interesting body scroll on both the soundboard and backboard. A: The 3-point mandolins were quite interesting and while they were similiar to an F4, there were enough differences that would make it pretty hard to build one from a modified F4 kit. The peghead was a different shape (although the same basic double-scroll design) and had a slightly steeper peghead pitch than on F4s, and the soundboard and backboard scroll carvings were significantly different. The ribs of the 3-point mandolin was wider and the neck had a deeper, straighter heel. The outside shape of the body as well as the carving and arching of the soundboard and backboards was also significantly different. The early 3-point models were the Artist Model F, F2, F3, and F4.
