How to use a guitar radius gauge

Shop for Radius Gauges

Step 1  – Select gauge

Select a guitar radius gauge and check that you have the required concave radius ready for application.

Step 2 – Check fretboard

Make sure the fretboard is free from frets. This is likely to be done only during the initial set up of the guitar or during a revamping process.

Step 3 – Position gauge

Place the gauge on the fretboard to check the radius.  Use the visual test method as previously described under the section – ‘How to use a radius gauge to check for imperfections’ (Step 3).

Step 4 – If necessary, adjust radius

You may need to sand down the fretboard to match the required radius. The ideal radius measurement will vary, depending on the type of guitar you are working on.

Step 5 – Confirm final measurement

You can confirm the final radius measurement over the length of the fretboard using a radiused block. This ensures that the fretboard has a uniform curvature.