Notched Straightedge

Disappointed about the “thickness lie”

Straight edge really works well for pinpointing problem areas on a neck. There's always the "sight the neck" technique, but this really allows the user to see where the problem(s) are. The edges are sharp so be careful when using around instruments.

Having these straight edges really gives me peace of mind. I don't have to worry about if I'm leveling frets on a flat neck or not or if my set is accurate. I use these tools frequently.

Very smooth surface, edges are very sharp,
good weight and thickness.

Must have this tool even you're guitar player.
to know your own instrument, to great play.

This is valuable tool.

Great quality tool to add to the tool box. Makes fret work and set up easy.

I have both sizes to cover both instruments. They are handy for understanding where the wood of the fingerboard is vs the fret-heights. Makes for better decisions on fretwork.

This tool could also be used to read the tops of the frets if you are on a budget and could only buy 1 tool.

My only complaint is that I have run into a few guitars that had a scale-length that didn't fit any of the tools.

I use this tool in my repair shop every day. I could not imagine not having this tool.

Easy to use and built solid.

I'm very pleased to have purchased the notched straightedge. Here's why.
I already had a precision straight edge, but it can't read the flatness of the fretboard. Since my interests in guitars has morphed from playing to setup/repair and building, I decided it was time to by the notched straightedge.
First impressions: Expected Stewmac quality. It has weight to it, it is wide and stable when placed on the fretboard, notches are cleanly machined, and the satin finish is flawless.
As stated, the notched straightedge, will allow you to measure the flatness of the fretboard without the confusion of fret problems. And by placing the notched straightedge on the frets, you can evaluate the levelness of the frets.You can also compare fretboard relief on the wood as well as the frets.
I also found a new use for the tool. While using the notched straightedge, I realized that if I kept 'jumping over frets' until the notched straightedge was at the bridge, I could observe/measure where the plane of the wood or frets intersects the bridge. This will help with seeing issues with neckset angle by measuring/observing where the notched straightedge meets the bridge. No more sighting down the fretboard to help evaluate setup issues. (Hope you understood that).
Bottom line: Stewmac quality, performs as stated and more. If you were wondering if you should buy it, then buy it. You won't be disappointed.

Although I have a range of lengths of standard machinist straightedges, the notched straight edge was still a great addition to my tool box for truss rod adjustments.