Headless Keys

[Pete G.]

Are they just what the name says? Are they installed somewhat similar to pins and if so, are the ends finished flush with the fore end? I don't want inlays cluttering up my fore end, but I am building a piece with a style later than pins. Most photos don't illustrate this detail very well, so I am not really sure just how to procede and build something that is proper.

[JTR]

Pete,
It seems to me on the originals that I’ve seen, that the keys aren’t finished flush with the forearm.
They always stick out a little bit, say a 1/16” on both sides, maybe a little more.
Also, the ends of the key are not flat (straight) with sharp corners. The corners are rounded off, and the flat is filed into a slight arc.
Only my observations, other opinions may vary,
John