New Tele build with a Bigsby

[Mvjeffs]

I’m about to start my first guitar build and am looking for any tips/tricks/advice.  I run a woodshop so the actual build excites me but I’m worried about hardware compatibility and advanced guitar set up that I have no clue on.  My plan is pretty much to to a flat top PRS SE semi hollow body with a Tele neck and a bigsby.  That might all change but I’m really interested in doing something different.
So with warmoth’s compound radius, I can’t find any rollers or tune o matic style bridges with a radius above 14”.  I was looking for something around 18” to match the compound radius?
That being said is the compound radius worth it? Or just go straight 10” or 12”
Also feel free to tell me my idea is stupid and won’t work- I have next to no idea what I’m doing other than trying something new.

Any advice would be appreciated
Thanks,

Mike

 

[Verne Bunsen]

Welcome to the forum! Tele with a Bigsby? Oh yes.....

Have you considered a Tele style 3-saddle bridge? Once modified to provide for string clearance over the rear lip, they work great with a Bigsby. You can modify one yourself, or aftermarket guys like Callaham and Rutters can make them built-for-purpose.

 

[mayfly]

I'd second the recommendation for a tele type bridge.  I have one with a bigsby and it stays perfectly in tune even during extreme wankerage.  On the guitar I mean.

Also, I really like the compound radius but I will say that a large-ish straight radius works perfectly well too.  It all depends on your preference. 

 

[rgand]

I also encourage you to go with either the Tele cut down bridge or the hardtail Strat bridge. And familiarize yourself with the Callaham upgrades for the Bigsby, especially the Main string shaft so you can string it up easily.

 

[Verne Bunsen]

...And familiarize yourself with the Callaham upgrades for the Bigsby, especially the Main string shaft so you can string it up easily.

This is the best Bigsby advice you could ever receive.