Guitar Nut/String Height Gauge

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This is a fully parametric guitar string height/nut gauge (or for any stringed instrument) - a must-have tool for any serious luthier or guitarist. This device measures and sets up the action height of a stringed instrument with precision. The included STL file is designed for use with a 1" stroke dial indicator, available from Harbor Freight and other retailers for under $20. However, you can adjust the gauge's overall height in the OpenSCAD file to fit your specific dial indicator or instrument requirements. The default STL file should work well for most electric guitars, but adjustments may be necessary for bass guitars and other instruments. The gauge comes with a pointed "tip," which may need to be removed or replaced with a flat tip. Here's how to use it: 1. Research the optimal string height for your instrument online. 2. Position the gauge to straddle over the first fret, as shown in the accompanying photos. 3. Record the dial indicator reading at the string's natural height. 4. Press down on the string between the nut and the first fret; record the new indicator reading. 5. Calculate the action height by subtracting the original reading from the new one. 6. If the action is too high, file the nut slot for each string as needed. If it's too low, consider installing a new nut and filing it to fit. I built the "double f hole telecaster" shown in the photos entirely from scratch, drawing inspiration from Ed Hawley and the knowledge shared at https://www.tdpri.com.