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Is the only purpose of side reinforcements to prevent splits or cracks in the sides?

If so, isn't it a time consuming task that could more easily, and more effectively, be accomplished by the use of the proper color of bias tape? If one used the tape with the highest percentage of natural fibers, ironed it flat, used titebond mixed with some water, and taped from the top to the bottom of the rim BEFORE gluing the kerfings?

Just wondering.

Thanks
DaveB

Like this.

I believe Martin used HHG soaked cloth at one time. To me its an appearance thing I like the look of wood reinforcements. Also, somewhere I saw an article about the "guitar key hole" -- it was referring to the damaged caused when a player bashes in the side of their guitar when they crush it against a pocket full of car keys. I do think wood strips might be stronger then cloth? $.02

I put a crack in my 35 yr. old D-28 with just the heel of my hand and too much pressure. Both guitars I have completed have wooden reinforcement. They look really nice from the inside!!
Hey Dave that is one big guitar you're building is that a super jumbo or a j200?

Oh hey Woody - just a pic I swiped from the 'net - not mine.
daveB

I switched to the brown ribbon

I'd agree with Ken; wood has got to be stronger than cloth or tape, eh?

Regards.

No doubt; but if the purpose is to prevent splits, the cloth has the advantage of covering the entire height of the rim, not just between the kerfings.
I too prefer the look of wood reinforcements.
DaveB

There is an open debate about the side reinforcements. I have seen more cracks with the wooden ones than the ribbons. With the wooden strips martin places 3 pieces and with the tape there are 7 . The purpose isn't for side strength as much as just crack control.
I have used both and will continue to do so , but my preference is the brown ribbon. I honestly don't think it matters all that much . Both work and both have their issues . You do develop shear stress risers more with the wood than ribbon but again , they both work so use what you like best.
I will often inlay the side supports so there in that case I use wood . Maybe tape reinforced wooded supports would be best LOL just had to get that off my chest .