What’s the Ideal Guitar Neck Width for Small Hands?
Are you someone with small hands who is struggling to find the perfect guitar? You may have searched through a number of guitars, only to find that the neck widths were all designed for people with larger hands, making it difficult for you to play comfortably. This can be frustrating, discouraging and cause unnecessary strain on your hands. But don’t worry — we’re here to help!
In this blog post, we will explore the topic of guitar neck width and provide you with a detailed breakdown of the ideal neck width for small hands. We’ll be diving into the different types of neck widths available and discussing what makes a neck width suitable for small hands. So, let’s get started!
Understanding Guitar Neck Widths
The neck width of a guitar is often a neglected characteristic that is overlooked when purchasing a guitar. Neck widths refer to the distance between the nut and the end of the fretboard where it meets the body of the guitar. This area is known as the “heel.”
In general, guitars have varied neck widths, ranging from narrow to wide. Beginners often start out with narrow necks because they are easier to navigate. As you advance in your playing, you may prefer to switch to a wider neck that will allow for more comfortable playing.
Why Is Neck Width Important?
Neck width is an essential characteristic of a guitar because it has a significant impact on your overall playing comfort and experience. A neck that is too wide for your hands can cause fatigue, cramping, and even strain. Conversely, a neck that is too narrow for your hands may cause you to hit the wrong notes, slide off the fretboard or experience less control over your finger placement.
Factors That Make a Neck Width Suitable for Small Hands
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to what makes a guitar neck width suitable for small hands. However, there are a few factors to consider when looking for a guitar neck that is friendly to small hands:
1. Neck Shape:
The shape of the neck of the guitar influences how you grip it. A “C” shaped neck, which is curved, is ideal for small hands because it allows for comfortable grip and overall maneuverability. On the other hand, an oval-shaped neck, also known as a “V” shaped neck, may be less comfortable and suitable for your playing needs.
2. Fingerboard Radius:
The curvature of the fingerboard, also referred to as the fingerboard radius, can impact how easy it is to play. For those with small hands, a fingerboard with a flatter radius may be more suitable because it allows for easier fretting and playing.
3. Nut Width:
The width of the nut could make a difference in how fingers are placed on the frets, which may affect playability. It is advisable to opt for a guitar with a nut width of around 1.6 inches to 1.7 inches, which is the ideal size for smaller hands.
4. String Spacing:
String spacing can impact how easy it is to play and even affect how the sound of your guitar comes out. For the best results, you’ll want to choose a guitar with a narrower string spacing since it’s a more comfortable fit for smaller hands.
After considering all these factors, it is clear that it takes a combination of all the right features to make a guitar neck suitable for small hands. Having the right neck shape, fingerboard radius size, nut width, and string spacing all play important roles in finding the perfect guitar for your needs.
What Are the Ideal Neck Widths for Small Hands?
The ideal width of a guitar neck for small hands is typically around 1.6 inches to 1.7 inches. Typically, neck widths between 1.5 inches to 1.7 inches are considered narrow, while wider necks may range between 1.7 inches to 1.9 inches, and even more.
When searching for the best guitar for small hands, consider a narrow neck that considers all factors mentioned above to get the best-fit guitar neck for your unique hands.
The Guitar Models That Suit Small Hands
Now that you understand the ideal guitar neck widths for small hands, let’s dive into the best-suited guitar models for small hands:
1. The Fender Mustang:
This guitar has a slightly shorter scale length than the average guitar, making it perfect for those with smaller hands. Additionally, the guitar’s neck is narrower, which makes it easier to grip and play.
2. The Taylor GS Mini:
The Taylor GS Mini produces high-quality sound and is perfect for smaller hands. The guitar has a slightly narrower neck than the average acoustic guitar, which makes it easier to play chords and finger-pick.
3. Ibanez GRG120BDXL:
This guitar has a slim and narrow neck, perfect for smaller hands. Its fingerboard radius is also flat, and its string spacing narrower, so you’ll have an easier time playing everything from chords to solos.
Final Thoughts
The challenge of playing a guitar with small hands is real, but don’t let it discourage you from playing. As we’ve seen, when looking for a guitar with a suitable neck width, a few key factors come into play. From finding a suitable neck shape, fingerboard radius, nut width, and string spacing, putting it all together is key in finding a guitar that caters to your unique needs. By considering these factors, you’ll be sure to find the perfect guitar that will allow you to master playing without experiencing any discomfort or strain.
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