StewMac Action Gauge

Every player should have a tool such as the StewMac Action Ruler for measuring the height of the strings; that way you will know when it's time to have your guitar set up.

Why Buy the StewMac Gauge?

The StewMac gauge is the best quality action gauge on the market. Because it is laser-etched, it is highly accurate. It would be appropriate for a guitar builder, repair person, teacher, or anyone else using the tool regularly.

The laser-etched markings ensure durability and readability that will last for years, unlike cheaper alternatives where the markings can wear off.

What Happens When Strings Are Too Low?

If the strings are too low, you may already know because they could be buzzing. This could mean the guitar is dehydrated, or sometimes it just needs a quick adjustment to the truss rod in the neck. Hydrating the guitar may improve this, but it takes a lot of hydration over the course of one to two weeks to see a difference. This can be addressed by placing a small shim underneath the bridge to lift the strings up again.

What If Strings Are Too High?

If the strings are too high, you may have noticed that your guitar is getting harder to play. This most often happens when the guitar expands due to humidity. High action can make it unbearable to play your guitar.

How to Fix String Height Issues

A luthier will examine the guitar to understand the cause of the issue. Then make sure the neck truss rod is adjusted properly so that the neck is not excessively curved. If there is no obvious cause to the issue, then the luthier will adjust the bridge height either by shimming it up or sanding it down.