The Collings Forum

I can't play a 45 but I am considering selling my 35 to get the bigger neck of the 45. For those who have played both, how much difference is it? I usually like big necks and find them more comfy. The 35 neck is what I would call slim at the first fret. I get along with it but I have to admit I wish it had a little more depth there. Holler. Mark

Hey Mark - I own a 45 and used to own a 35. The 45 is thick all the way through, meaning I don’t feel much taper and it is even thick at the lower frets. It is beefier than the 35 and does have more depth. I much prefer it to the 35, but I am a fan of big necks.

I am as well. Thanks

I'd be interested in the 35 if it has a sunburst.... I recently purchased a Gibson custom shop 1934 Jumbo... its killer but the neck is just too big for me... I always thought the 35 was pretty full, I've not played a 45.... Interesting that the 45 would be bigger....

The 35 features the Vintage Now carve which may be spec'd on just about any other model. I haven't had the pleasure to try the 45 yet.

Mine is Natural. I had one of those OJs and I loved the neck on it. Mine had a slightly modified V. The neck on this 35 is not do oe die. I get along with it well. I do wish for a tad more depth at first frets but it is not thin.

what would make the most difference to me is poly vs lacquer neck. i believe that the Ts all have lacquer neck, which bogged me down a bit (not a chemistry thing - just didn't slide as easily.) be interested to hear thoughts. i don't know for a fact, nor do i know if the 45T has a lacquer neck.

The specs on my (and all I think) CJ45A Trad. is indeed full lacquer. The necks are also indeed different.

Bronco wrote: Sat Apr 08, 2023 8:50 pm Hey Mark - I own a 45 and used to own a 35. The 45 is thick all the way through, meaning I don’t feel much taper and it is even thick at the lower frets. It is beefier than the 35 and does have more depth. I much prefer it to the 35, but I am a fan of big necks.

This. However, unfortunately, no one can know what is comfortable to you. I find the CJ45 Trad neck sublime but it's the biggest neck I've played in decades.

pto wrote: Sat Apr 15, 2023 2:47 am what would make the most difference to me is poly vs lacquer neck. i believe that the Ts all have lacquer neck, which bogged me down a bit (not a chemistry thing - just didn't slide as easily.) be interested to hear thoughts. i don't know for a fact, nor do i know if the 45T has a lacquer neck.

What I do with any necks that aren't as fast as I like, is sand them down with a extra-fine grit sandpaper until they feel the way I want them to feel.