Scale length is an essential factor to consider when shopping for a new instrument, upgrade your guitar parts or just understand guitars. We'll walk you through the definition of scale length, how to measure this number, what it'll affect and some common models scale size.
What Does Scale Length Mean?
Scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge on the guitar, which is the space that the strings lie in. This measurement is most commonly in inches because the most commonly used guitars are American brands, and America uses inch. Scale length varies depending on the brand and model of guitar.
How to Measure Scale Length?
Using a ruler to measure the length from the edge of the nut (where the fingerboard starts) to the center of the 12th fret, and then just double the measurement! Yes, you heard me, double the length from nut to the 12th fret, that's it. The reason we don't measure directly from nut to bridge is that the bridge shapes vary and we can't have a precise number for scale length if we do that.
What'll Scale Length Affect?
Fret Spacing
Fret spacing is the most noticeable thing you’ll see when comparing guitars with different scale lengths. A shorter scale guitar will have closer fret spacing and might not be friendly for big fingers.
String Tension
The longer the scale strength, the greater the string tension needs to sustain the pitch. That's why you might feel a shorter scale guitar is easier to bend the strings.
Tone
The longer the scale strength, the greater the string tension, we know that from the last point. And that tension will bring strong and focused sound with great low-end clarity.
Guitar Scale Length Chart
The most common guitar scale length is 25.5″, which you will find on Fender models such as Stratocaster and Telecaster. Also very typical is 24.75″, which you will find on most Gibson electric guitars. Here are some other common scale lengths:
