Atkin Dust Bowl 0012S and 00014: A Testament to Depression-Era Acoustic Guitars

It’s remarkable to think that guitars born in an era of financial hardship and social unrest could remain iconic nearly a century later. Yet, Depression-era acoustics—stripped-down, no-frills instruments designed for working musicians of the 1930s—continue to captivate players today. These guitars, originally created out of necessity, now enjoy a celebrated status for their warmth, simplicity, and timeless sound.

Recently, Martin responded to this enduring appeal with its Streetmaster acoustics, featuring reliced finishes that evoke the rugged history of juke joints and barrel houses in the Deep South. Similarly, the resurgence of all-mahogany models in Martin’s catalog reflects a growing appreciation for their rounded tones and inviting warmth.

Joining this revival is Canterbury-based Atkin Guitars, led by luthier Alister Atkin, with their Dust Bowl Series. This collection was born out of customer demand and Alister’s desire to craft instruments that blend vintage charm with impeccable craftsmanship. “We’d made a few for people when they’d asked,” Alister explains, “and I saw it as an opportunity to make something really nice and vintage-feeling for those out there who wanted a guitar like that. Weirdly, more people than you might imagine want a guitar like this.”

The Dust Bowl Series

The Dust Bowl Series includes seven models: 0, 00, and 000 sizes in both 14-fret and slotted-head 12-fret configurations, as well as a parlour model. Today, we examine two representatives of the series: the 0012 and the 00014.

First Impressions

Unboxing these guitars is akin to unveiling a treasure. Both the 0012 and 00014 boast stunning simplicity, with a crazed nitrocellulose finish that suggests decades of careful use. The craftsmanship immediately catches the eye, setting the tone for an exceptional playing experience.

Construction and Materials

These guitars share several construction details, differing mainly in size and neck-to-body joint configuration. Both feature African mahogany bodies and necks, complemented by Indian rosewood fingerboards, bridges, and headstock facings. The tuners are Gotoh—open-back for the 00014, with a vintage patina, and classical-style three-a-side for the slotted-head 0012.

Interestingly, both models use ebony nuts instead of the more traditional bone. “That’s what they used back in the day,” Alister notes. “A lot of those guitars had ebony, and I think it works well. It looks really cool.” Polished to a shine, these ebony nuts add a unique aesthetic while staying true to vintage style.

The mahogany tops, stained a rich dark chocolate, enhance the vintage vibe. Despite being considered a premium wood today, mahogany was more accessible in the 1930s, making it a practical choice for budget-friendly instruments of the time. Alister explains, “The supply was good, and it was just how things used to sit back then.”

Tonal Characteristics

Alister’s experience with mahogany top guitars reveals its versatility: “Tonally, I’ve found that it ends up sounding pretty similar to Sitka spruce if treated the same way. There’s a little variation, but not a great deal.” Both the 0012 and 00014 have thinner tops—ranging from 2.2 to 2.5mm on smaller models—to optimize resonance and tonal response.

Playability and Sound

The light weight of these guitars immediately stands out. Their finish, reminiscent of aged mahogany, adds to the illusion of a storied past. Despite differences in body size, the tonal similarities between the 0012 and 00014 are striking.

The 0012 features a chubby neck that is comfortable and manageable, making it an excellent choice for relaxed, sofa-side playing. Its tone offers plentiful bass, well-rounded trebles, and rich volume, embodying the essence of a versatile acoustic guitar.

Switching to the 00014, the slightly larger body delivers enhanced bass presence and a touch more volume, although the difference is subtler than expected. Both guitars excel in various playing styles, from gentle fingerpicking to vigorous strumming, showcasing their adaptability.

Verdict

Alister Atkin’s dedication to craftsmanship shines in the Dust Bowl Series. These guitars not only capture the spirit of Depression-era acoustics but also deliver modern playability and tonal excellence. Spending extra time with these instruments—a testament to their allure—confirms their place among top-tier acoustics.

Whether you’re a blues picker, singer-songwriter, or simply a lover of vintage aesthetics, the Atkin Dust Bowl 0012 and 00014 offer everything you could ask for: exceptional sound, beautiful craftsmanship, and a connection to a storied musical legacy.

 

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