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Home : Nuts, saddles : Special tools for: Nuts and saddles : Nut Slotting Gauge

A revolution in guitar setup!

Nut Slotting Gauge

Here's a device that will revolutionize the way you set up a guitar. The Nut Slotting Gauge quickly and precisely measures the heights of the strings over the first fret, so you can file nut slot depths more accurately than ever before. That means easier, more consistent playability, that you can custom-tailor to individual instruments and playing styles. No more guesswork or "eyeballing" the string heights, and no more searching for elusive combinations of feeler gauges.

NEW! Now for bass, by popular request!

See details below
Nut Slotting Gauge Play video
Item# Description In stock Price Quantity
2003 For guitar and most instruments Yes $59.94

2006 NEW! For bass Yes $58.97


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Instructions

Nut Slotting Gauge




i-2003 Updated 02/09

The Nut Slotting Gauge precisely measures the heights of the strings over the first fret, so you can cut accurate string slots.

Step 1: Set the Nut Slotting Gauge over the first fret, with the indicator tip resting on the middle of a string. To zero the dial indicator, loosen the dial lock (located at the approximate 1 o’clock position of the dial). Turn the knurled dial face so the zero mark is lined up with the needle and re-tighten the dial lock. Note that for most applications, the zero will not be in the 12 o’clock position.

Press the string down to the first fret. Press on both sides of the fret, to be sure you get an accurate reading. The dial now indicates the height of the string over the first fret.

Step 2: Pull the string out of the nut slot (our #4803 String Lifter is a great time-saver). File the slot deeper, replace the string and take another reading. Repeat until you reach the height you need. Note: If the strings are too high at the first fret they can be difficult to play, and if they're too low they can buzz. The strings on electric guitars can generally be closer to the first fret than on acoustics. This is also true for players with a lighter touch vs. players with an aggressive style. The bass strings should be gradually higher in the nut than the treble strings.

Step 3: Move the gauge to each of the remaining strings and follow the same procedure. The thumbscrew that holds the dial indicator post in place can be loosened, and the indicator rotated 180 degrees. This lets you keep all of the gauge’s feet on the fretboard and still view the dial from the same side as you move the gauge across the neck.







Shown on page 18 of our latest catalog.

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