Got a Fretboard? Find Your Scale Length!
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Introduction
Ever wonder how to build a cigar box guitar around a neck that already has frets? It’s a common question, especially when you find a cool pre-made neck. The key is to figure out the scale length, which is the total vibrating length of the string from the nut to the bridge.
Don’t worry, you don’t need any complex formulas like in the case of the fret calculation. The method is simple, fast, and accurate.
The Secret is the 12th Fret
Every guitar has a magic spot: the 12th fret. This is where the octave is, and it’s located exactly halfway between the nut and the bridge.
So, to find your scale length, you just need to measure the distance from the nut (the little ridge at the top of the neck) to the 12th fret, and then double that number.
Scale Length: Step-by-Step Guide
- Grab a ruler or tape measure. A good quality ruler is best for accuracy.
- Measure the distance from the nut to the 12th fret. Place the end of the ruler at the nut and measure to the very center of the 12th fret.
- Multiply your measurement by two. This is your scale length!
Example:
If the distance from the nut to the 12th fret is 9.5 inches, your scale length is:
9.5×2=19 inches.
Why is this important?
Knowing the scale length is crucial for a few reasons:
- Bridge Placement: The bridge must be placed exactly at the end of the scale length you calculated. If you’re building a 19-inch scale guitar, the bridge goes exactly 19 inches from the nut.
- Cigar Box Size: This tells you what size cigar box you need. The box has to be long enough to fit the neck plus the bridge, so the total instrument will be a bit longer than the scale length.
And that’s it! With one simple measurement, you can transform a pre-fretted neck into a perfectly built instrument. Happy building!
