Travel Size Lap Steel Ideas?

Russell Hollander · Post by **Russell Hollander** » 11 Aug 2015 6:28 am

Hi everyone. I am new here and to Lap. Just switched to it from guitar to save my thumbs and having a ball. I have a nice old 1957 Gibson BR6 that I am enjoying but would like a suggestion for a small and easier to travel with Lap. Something smaller, durable and light weight. My current is near 30 inches and would love to get that down and lighter. I wound't mind a smaller scale as I think it would challenge me to be a better player. I travel alot and something that fits in a backpack (may stick out) or suitcase would be great. Greatly appreciate your suggestions. Thanks!

David Mason · Post by **David Mason** » 11 Aug 2015 6:53 am

I like to think I tinker well, (rather than luthierize poorly). I just picked up a fine, compact 8-string keyless tuning head from this gent:
http://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=283607

With something like that, you could conceivably get like a 22.5" scale on a 25" total-length instrument. Sometimes in the World of Tinker, find the tuners and the plank will follow. There's also the popular tuners in a slotted body idea, a la
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Traveler-Guitar ... 1ea2826174

Larry Carlson · Post by **Larry Carlson** » 11 Aug 2015 6:57 am

Well, the shortest scale length I know of is 21"
I just started out about 6 months ago and I bought a Rogue lap steel for $79.
I know, I know, everyone hates Rogues. Just call me a rebel.
I made a steel nut and bridge for it and installed an Epiphone humbucker and it really sounds fairly good for what it is.
I can't think of a shorter lap steel than this one at the moment.
It came with a soft case and it would fit in to one of my suitcase. Not so sure about a back pack.
Like I said I am just starting out and I am sure others in here will have some much better ideas.

Greg Moynihan · Post by **Greg Moynihan** » 11 Aug 2015 1:05 pm

The Magnatone Melodier is a neat design, I've been thinking about looking for one myself:

http://rvrb.io/1950-s-melodien-la-5vz

I do not have a bespoke travel instrument myself, but my I noodle on my regular lap steel on my daily ferry commute. I also bring it on most vacations, it's definitely re-lit my passion for music.

Marty Broussard · Post by **Marty Broussard** » 11 Aug 2015 2:38 pm

You could contact Sonny Jenkins and ask him about my custom practice boards he's building. Might be what you want. Good luck
MB

Dennis Waltman · Post by **Dennis Waltman** » 11 Aug 2015 6:27 pm

I have a Melobar Rattler that is built quite nicely with an alimunum nut and saddle and came with a soft case. Could double as a club in case of attack and still stay in tune. Great traveller.

Stefan Robertson · Post by **Stefan Robertson** » 12 Aug 2015 12:21 am

How many strings are you after.

I once wanted the same and I ended up using a Martin travel guitar but there are a few choices when using a travel guitar. Look for something similar as no amp is required as its acoustic. So more like a guitar that's small. You could also look at getting a Parlour guitar or a kids jr. Guitar if you are happy with just 6 strings it fits the bill.

For me there are no options for 12 strings and honestly I would never go back.

Stefan Robertson · Post by **Stefan Robertson** » 12 Aug 2015 12:22 am

Then just pick up a nut raiser. They're cheap.

Sonny Jenkins · Post by **Sonny Jenkins** » 12 Aug 2015 8:32 am

Hey Guys,,,,thanks for the recommendations!!!

Yes Russell,,,,I have a 24 1/4" scale (that's a full standard scale) built into a mere 26"!!
http://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=286815

contact me by email and we'll talk about this one,,,or whatever you might want

Sonny Jenkins · Post by **Sonny Jenkins** » 12 Aug 2015 10:28 am

Blurry pics of Marty's practice boards,,,unstrung. These are 17 1/2" long,,,16" scale. Oak and Walnut. (rubber bands around keys to hold fingers in position temporarily)

Marty Broussard · Post by **Marty Broussard** » 12 Aug 2015 7:35 pm

Really anxious to get those from Sonny. They'll fit into my backpack and not be too loud to disturb others on the bus or in a room.....hoping to utilize dead time on the road for practicing bar techniques, picking patterns, etc.....Thanks to Sonny for being open minded and flexible.

Stefan Robertson · Post by **Stefan Robertson** » 13 Aug 2015 3:32 am

Those look really ideal. How much for a 12 stringer

Russell Hollander · Post by **Russell Hollander** » 13 Aug 2015 9:22 am

Thanks everyone. I got itchy and impulsive. Went ahead and picked up this 1950's Teisco with a guitar I had to trade. 27"long, super lightweight but only a 22" scale. Plays great and challenges me to work on my intonation. I removed the volume chickenhead so I can dampen better. I am sure this won't be the last I buy!!! but this works great for now. Thanks very much. Russ[/img]

Jack Aldrich · Post by **Jack Aldrich** » 13 Aug 2015 10:34 am

I travel with my Bill Asher Alan Akaka Special in a Fender Strat gig bag. It fits in the overhead just fine. I've also travelled with my 25" Fender D8 Stringmaster and my Canopus D8; both fit in a Boeing or Airbus overhead, although I've had to argue with gate people to get them on.