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Hi All,
So I'm building my first electric solid body guitar and it has been going well for the most part, except I decided to cut the neck slot using a drill press and chisels instead of a drill press and a router. So, basically what happened is that the neck slot is not quite as precise as I'd like it to be. I am looking for recommendations on how big of a problem this might be and how to possibly fix it. Here's a link to some photos of it so you know what I am talking about:
http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/dd ... directlink
I'm going to use a router for the pickup cavities after this experience with the chisels.
Finally, as a first time builder any general advice that you feel like giving out, such as what might be the easiest way to put a finish on the guitar would be greatly appreciated. There seem to be a lot of options finish wise out there, and I'd really like to do a nice opaque lacquer color, but am wondering how difficult this might be and whether I might be better off with some other option.
Thanks,
Richard

Yikes. Did you spend alot on the wood? What body style is it? Do you have a template?
A template and a router are indispensable for electric guitar building. I dont think I would attempt one not using a template and a router, its just not worth the hassle. What you want to do really depends on the plans for the guitar... how much of the neck joint will be covered by a pickguard... if any. If the pocket is larger than the neck I would recommend making a square template and routing the pocket square, then cut a piece of wood to match the cavity and glue it in. Then, use a proper template to route the pocket out perfectly. There are many many ways to do this but this is the method I would use. But if the wood was cheap and you can simply start off with a fresh blank... I would just start over... with a template.
Good luck

I would try what edward taylor was saying about squaring it off and glueing in a block. the way i make an easy neck pocket template is, i use 3 pieces of wood (all the same size, L-W-H, maybe 1/2 to 3/4 high and squared. i clamp the neck exactly where i want it. then, i butt one block up against the end of the neck and spot glue it or double side tape it in place. then i butt the other two piece on both sides of the neck (touching the spot glued block on the end of the neck) and spot glue or tape in place. then unclamp and remove the neck. make sure the template has not shifted and then you are ready to rout with a flush cut bit. it works well for me. good luck with this. you can get it, just be patient.

-SPLoughney

Ok, thanks guys, I will see what I can do and will let you know how it goes. about to head of to school for a bit, so it might be awhile. thanks though.