F hole placement?

I've been looking into putting F holes into my cigar box uke that I'm building and I notice that on almost any stringed instrument, the placement of the holes is next to the bridge, as seen here...



I was going to place the holes like this one though...



...but I don't know if it will sound better closer to the bridge. It makes sense for it to be next to the bridge in my opinion but I'd like to know what an experienced luthier would say. Open for any ideas, or opinions.

One more thing... What's the best tool for cutting F holes?

Thanks!

I don't see any reason not to place the f-holes as you wish. With the mandolin shown, the f-holes are placed there as to not interfer with the internal bracing (either X or parallel). Also having the f-holes next to the bridge will loosen up that part of the top plate and reduce the area of vibration. With a cigar box uke I don't believe there is any internal bracing to deal with, so the only critical issue is going to be the size of the holes, which will be a function of the volume of the box.

Brad