Tables of Typical Guitar Action Values

Action (or string action) is a measurement of the distance of the strings of a fretted instrument above the tops of the frets. Because that distance increases the further away from the nut the measurement is taken, we typically just measure this at a single fret for representational purposes. The fret most widely used for action measurements is the 12^th fret. Action measurements are typically taken using a ruler with its end sitting on top of the 12^th fret. Special string action gauges are available that make taking these measurements a lot easier. Measure from the top of the fret to the bottom of the string. The following tables show typical action for guitars and bass guitars at the lowest and highest strings. The action for the rest of the strings is adjusted proportionally between these. The increment values to use for the rest of the strings are shown in the last line of each table. Action values are presented in decimal inches. Hover over any value with the mouse to show values in mm.