HELP! WHAT SIZE NECK FOR SMALL HANDS

I need all your help. I am a woman and have small hands. Been playing with a Washburn Sonomaster S2.. it is a C Shape, and is 9.5 radius with 22 frets and 25.5 length............ But want to buy Fender 70's Vintera Strat. Its for my 50th Bday!

Anyhow, there are 21 frets, neck is 25 inches, and 70's C shape, so it is NOT modern C ... ...BUT its 7.25 radius

Do you think the neck size will be too big for me?

And is that guitar popular, that down the road if I NEED to sell it, it will be appealing?

Thanks, Kelly

Hi Kelly,

It sounds like you already know exactly what you want, but your subject line sounds like you are looking for advice on neck size. Are you asking for advice on where to find that 70s Vintera strat, or are you asking whether the neck on said strat would be comfortable for your small hands?

Sorry, Im asking if you think the neck size, radius wise will be too big for my hands

Should I be looking for a C Shape 9.5 then?

And I dont know what the difference is from Modern C Shape to 70's C Shape?

Ok, question makes sense now. I have absolutely no knowledge that would be at all helpful on this topic, so I'll sit by and wait to be educated by some of the experts and more experienced players here.

I have a hunch that several people will ask you more questions and will give some specific advice, but I think the concensus will be a very solid "get your hands on as many different necks as you can and see what feels right for you." I know that's more than a little challenging right now, but I suspect that's probably the best advice.

Hey Guys,

I'm not one of those experts Dave was referring too but, I figured I'd like to join the conversation and offer my 2 cents. I've been reading about the subject lately as I recently bought a second guitar. I think the metric that will impact you most is the size of the neck at the 1st and 12th frets. I believe the neck radius and shape gives the guitar neck a feel that's more of a preference. I've include a couple links. One to a video discussing neck shape and radius. There's a good illustration about 6:10 in that may be helpful. The other to a guitar with a good illustration of its neck dimensions.

Guitar Neck Video

Neck Thickness

Jay