Understring Fretboard Radius Gauges

FOR EVALUATION OF FRETBOARD RADIUS WITH STRINGS ON

An invaluable guitar tool for determining the fretboard radius for regular and compound radius boards on 6-string guitars. The design allows for convenient and accurate gauging of the fretboard by inserting from the bass strings side. The illustration above shows a vintage MIJ Strat which unexpectedly has a 15" radius!.

The nominal length of the understring gauges is 65mm.

The gauge should be inserted alongside a fret keeping the gauge perpendicular to the neck ensuring accurate measurement. The gauges can be removed from the captive pin if preferred as shown below.

The top radius of each gauge stem is identical to the bottom but rotated to create a widening arc along the length.

The gauges can be used as an aid for adjusting the string radius across the guitar - (where saddle adjustment permits) - and for setting pick up pole heights to the string radius.

CONVENIENT GAUGE SELECTION BY FLIPPING ROUND

The gauges are retained on a pin which provides for quick selection and progression through the radius sizes by flipping around until the correct gauge size is found. 10 individual sizes are included:- 7.25", 9.5", 10", 12", 14", 15", 16", 17", 18", 20".

The fretboard radius is a key factor to consider when evaluating a guitar for repair or purchase. The gauges are versatile and not just limited to workshop use. Gauging from the bass side allows them to be easily used to measure a radius with the guitar in any position, whether on a rack, stand, or even during a tryout and the compact size makes them a handy tool to keep nearby.