How Deep Should Fret Slots Be?

Fret slots are one of the critical aspects of a well-built guitar. They not only provide the necessary support for the frets, but they also allow for proper intonation and proper action.

The slots need to be cut to an accurate depth in order for the guitar to play in tune and have the correct string height.

There are a few schools of thought when it comes to how deep fret slots should be. Some believe that they should be cut as shallow as possible, while others believe that they should be cut deeper.

There is no right or wrong answer, and ultimately it is up to the builder to decide what works best for them.

Shallow slots have the advantage of being easier to cut and requiring less work. They are also less likely to cause problems with intonation, as the frets can be seated more accurately in shallower slots.

However, shallow slots can cause issues with string height, as the frets may not have enough room to properly vibrate. This can lead to buzzes and other unwanted noise.

Deep slots have the advantage of providing more room for the frets to vibrate, which can lead to better tone and sustain. They can also be helpful in preventing string buzzes by providing more space between the fret and the string.

However, deep slots can be more difficult to cut correctly, and they may cause problems with intonation if they are not cut accurately.

In the end, it is up to the builder to decide how deep their fret slots should be. There is no right or wrong answer, and each builder will have their own preference based on their experience and methods.