Measuring a guitar neck often refers to determining its thickness, which is a key factor in how the instrument feels in your hand. This measurement is typically taken at specific points along the neck, such as the first fret or the twelfth fret.
How to Measure Guitar Neck Thickness (at the First Fret)
Based on common practices, including the provided reference, measuring neck thickness at the first fret is a standard method. This measurement helps determine the profile or shape of the neck near the headstock.
Here's a straightforward guide to measuring guitar neck thickness at the first fret:
- Prepare the Guitar: Remove the strings from the guitar. This ensures you have clear access to the neck and fingerboard without obstruction.
- Gather Your Tool: You will need a precise measuring tool, typically a set of calipers. Digital calipers are often preferred for their accuracy and easy-to-read display.
- Position the Calipers: Put the calipers on the nut side of the first fret.
- Locate the Measurement Spot: Ensure you are measuring in the center of the fingerboard. The reference specifies measuring between where your D and G string would be if they were still on the guitar. This central point gives a consistent reading of the neck's thickness from the back of the neck to the face of the fingerboard.
- Take the Measurement: Gently close the calipers until they make contact with the back of the neck and the fingerboard surface at the specified location.
- Read the Result: Note the measurement displayed on your calipers.
Summary of Measurement Steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Remove strings |
| 2. Tool | Use calipers |
| 3. Placement | On the nut side of the first fret |
| 4. Location | Center of the fingerboard, between D & G string positions |
| 5. Measurement | Close calipers gently |
| 6. Result | Read the measurement |
Typical measurements for neck thickness at the first fret can vary widely depending on the guitar's make and model, but according to the reference, you should often get numbers anywhere from .775 to 1 inch.
Why Measure Neck Thickness?
Measuring neck thickness is crucial for understanding the neck's profile and how it will feel when you play. Different thickness measurements contribute to various neck shapes (like C-shape, U-shape, V-shape), each offering a unique ergonomic experience for the player's hand. Players often have strong preferences for thicker or thinner necks based on their playing style and comfort.
Other Guitar Neck Measurements
While thickness is a common measurement, "measuring a guitar neck" can also refer to other dimensions:
- Neck Width: Measured across the fingerboard, typically at the nut and sometimes at the last fret, to determine string spacing.
- Scale Length: The distance from the nut to the bridge saddles, which affects string tension and fret spacing.
- Fretboard Radius: The curvature of the fingerboard surface.
However, the specific method detailed in the reference focuses squarely on neck thickness at the first fret.
