Neck Ferrule/Bushing Question

[Watchie]

In perusing the various parts sites I note that there are generally two types of neck ferrules/bushings offered for installing a neck in lieu of using a neck plate.  One is the larger (1/2-5/8) size and one is a bit smaller.  The sites say the former is designed to be inset, and the latter to sit on top of the wood body.

My questions are these:

- Is the larger size a solid piece?

-  Can the larger size work equally well sitting on top, not in a drilled/recessed hole?

For anyone who has used these, which is recommended if the plan is to NOT drill recessed holes?

 

[pabloman]

I've seen large and small for recessed mounting. I haven't seen any made specifically for top mounting. It's hard to give you a good answer without knowing which parts exactly you are talking about. What I will say is if the bottom is flat or at least doesn't protrude you should be able to get away with top mounting. I found some stainless screw trim finisher washer ferrule things at my local big box hardware store that work great. I have them in a recessed hole but they were made for top mounting.

 

[Watchie]

Were yours solid?

 

[pabloman]

No. They are a stamped sheet metal kind. They work great though. They don't look bad in the recess either. Not sure if I would use them for a top mount though. Just because of the looks, not the function.

 

[Watchie]

I'd love to recess them, but without a drill press I'm a bit reluctant to try it by hand.

 

[pabloman]

Ya my body came that way.