Counting Frets And Measuring Scale

[Mickguard]

I'm trying to calculate my bridge placement using StewMac's fret calculator...

They ask for the number of frets --am I correct in NOT counting that very last fret at the very end of the fretboard (which would make this a 21-fret neck).

Also when measuring to the 12th fret --am I measuring to the middle of the fret or to the edge? If edge, is it the edge closest to the bridge or closest to the nut? (don't know how much that matters, but I might as well try to be precise.

[Bytrix]

When it asks for number of frets it just uses that to give you the values for how many frets you entered. Doesn't make a difference to the position of the frets or anything. Your scale length is what's important.

Is this a neck that's already assembled and fretted? If so :

If you are measuring the scale length, try along the G string from the nut to the dead center of the 12th fret (I think.. as those measurements are used for cutting the grooves for each fret). Double that and you have the scale length, enter it into the calculator, and the position for your bridge should be displayed.

If not, just decide what scale length you want first, enter it into the calculator and it will give you the bridge position.

[erikbojerik]

For Fender-type instruments, the neck normally joins the body at the 16th fret. If you know (or can calculate) the distance from there (center of fret) to the center of the bridge saddle, you've got it.

[Mickguard]

When it asks for number of frets it just uses that to give you the values for how many frets you entered. Doesn't make a difference to the position of the frets or anything. Your scale length is what's important.

←

Okay, I wasn't sure...and yeah, it's a pre-existing neck. A really nice neck from an old Morris Melody Maker copy...actually I like this neck even better than one of the real Melody Maker I owned (sold that one ).

[egdeltar]

Bytrix is correct, measure from the inside of the nut the crown of the 12th fret then double it, that is your scale. But his statement about fret placement is off.... It matters where the frets are because they are placed according to the scale length. If that neck is say a 24.75 scale and you place your bridge according to a 25.50 you are going to be SOL as your frets will be all outta whack.