Ratliff R5 "Country Boy" 2000's, Walnut

The Ratliff R5 “Country Boy” is a straightforward, hand-built bluegrass mandolin from Audey Ratliff’s Tennessee shop. This 2000s example has a Walnut finish that gives the traditional F-style design a warm, understated look, with a Spruce top, Maple back and sides, and Ebony fingerboard. The simple appointments keep the focus on the carved construction and playing feel, while the adjustable bridge and traditional tailpiece make for a practical bluegrass setup. It’s a great example of Ratliff’s approach to building serious working mandolins without a lot of unnecessary ornamentation.