The nut on a Mexican Stratocaster is 1.650 inches (42 mm) wide. This is a standard measurement found on many Fender Standard series instruments, including the popular Mexican Standard Stratocaster models.
Understanding Guitar Nut Width
The nut of a guitar is a small, typically bone, plastic, or synthetic material piece located at the very top of the fretboard, where the headstock begins. It features grooves that precisely space the strings before they extend down the fretboard to the bridge. The nut's width is a crucial dimension as it significantly influences the feel and playability of the guitar, particularly for the fretting hand.
For a Mexican Standard Stratocaster, the specifications are as follows:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ (42 mm) |
| Truss Rod Nut | 3/16″ Hex Adjustment |
Why Nut Width Matters for Players
The nut width impacts how comfortable the neck feels in a player's hand and how easy it is to fret chords and notes, especially in the lower positions.
- Comfort and Playability: A 1.650-inch (42 mm) nut width is considered a versatile and common size, suitable for a wide range of playing styles and hand sizes. It offers a good balance, providing enough space for clear fretting without making the neck feel too wide or cumbersome.
- Chord Voicings: For guitarists who frequently play open chords or complex voicings, adequate string spacing at the nut can prevent accidental muting of adjacent strings.
- Soloing and Lead Work: While not as critical as for chordal playing, the nut width still contributes to overall neck comfort during lead passages, affecting how easily a player can move their hand across the fretboard.
This specific nut width is a hallmark of the Mexican Standard Stratocaster, contributing to its reputation as a highly playable and reliable instrument for guitarists worldwide.
