Apple and oranges string spacing (nuts bridges)

[peter havriluk]

I'm posing my question here as a result of my having no better idea where to stick it. It can be moved to a better place if the moderator knows of one.

I'd like to get a sense of how nut widths pair with string spacing on the bridge. For example, it seems customary to pair a 1-11/16" nut width (string spacing to be derived) with a 2-1/8" string spacing at the bridge. Moving right along, it also seems routine to pair a 1-3/4" nut width with 2-1/8" bridge pin spacing. Seems that way, as bridges seem to be most often sold with 2-1/8" string spacing. Would a builder pair a 1-/3/4" nut width with a 2-1/4" bridge spacing, or is the 2-1/4" bridge 'reserved' for a 1-13/16" or 1-7/8" nut width? And for what reason? For that matter, is a 2-3/16" bridge spacing ever done? and paired with what nut width?

I used the 'apples and oranges' phrase as I saw the two dimensions pertaining to different measurements, bridge pin spacing is string spacing, but nut width is not string spacing, that's done at some distance inboard of the nut outer edges....

Thanks, folks!

[ken cierp]

No rules for a custom made guitar -- some players like narrow spacing at the nut and up to 2 5/16 at the bridge. Spacing at the nut can vary, I build my standard 1 11/16 necks with the outer strings spaced just under .10 from the edge. This yields a nut string spacing that is really comparable to a factory guitar with a 1 3/4" nut. Also, finger pickers tend to like a bridge spacing of 2 3/16 up to 2 5/16 for those that also play classical guitars. Its all personal. Now once you decide on the combo its a good idea to do a full scale layout to determine the actual finger board taper so that the 1st and 6th strings are approximately the same distance from the edge all the way (this is not an absolute necessity).

[peter havriluk]

Thanks, Ken. Very clearly stated. A fullsize fingerboard layout seems like a dandy idea. We've also talked about where to put the tuners so's the strings don't foul on them. Same drawing, too.

[Tim Benware]

On my builds with 1 11/16" I've paired 2 1/8" and 2 3/16"; with 1 3/4" I've paired 2 3/16", 2 1/4" and 2 5/16", all on requests of the buyer. I personally like 1 11/16" & 2 1/8" and 1 3/4" & 2 1/4".

[peter havriluk]

Thanks, Tim. Ever had the occasion to go wider than 1-3/4" at the nut? And the reason?

[Tim Benware]

Thanks, Tim. Ever had the occasion to go wider than 1-3/4" at the nut? And the reason?

I've only had one request to do so. The customer was a classical guitar player purchasing a steel string and he wanted a 1 7/8" spacing but in the end decided to go with a 1 3/4" & 2 5/16".