Thought checking/setting neck relief was done enough by holding 6th string at 1st & 14th frets, then tapping at 7th fret and all would be well. My Taylor acoustic wasn't sounding just right lately and intonation was off, unusual for this 1998 414-KCE. Neck seemed fine, new strings didn't help so I ordered this Precision Straightedge. I held my guitar in playing position per StewMac instructions, laid the straightedge across the frets and found there was a bit more neck relief (gap) then I thought. I tightened the truss nut 1/2 a flat, checked again and relief (gap) was barely visible. I gave the guitar and strum and was surprised how much better is sounded. Up and down the neck, capo'd whatever... my 414 was back to its old self. I could not believe what a difference this "little tweak" made (I had always used "full nut flats" to measure tightening or loosening the truss rod - never occurred to me half would make a difference). I'm a believer now

To be honest, I wasn't sure about paying such a high price for a straight edge, but I'm glad I finally did! This is probably THE most used piece of equipment in my process. It's invaluable to know that what your straight edge says is straight IS straight. Its just heavy enough, and the beveled edge makes it easier to mark with precision when needed (its always needed) A+

started with some basics, have added more precision tools as I learn. nice stuff

Very nice straightedge. Somewhat expensive, but a great product. I really needed this to check my guitar neck and ensure it was set up properly.

I had been searching from a longtime for really precised straightedge and bought this ..it's perfect straight very high quality no dents and burrs very nicely packed ..very happy ..complete worth it ..whether it's setup ,neck angle or frets checkup .. it Rules..thanks stewmac for making such great tools ..it saves so much of time and hard labour ...

I thought the necks on several guitars were pretty straight, however, using the straight edge I was surprised at the additional tuning that could be done to really straighten them out.

it's to heavy mars your frets, dip it in a film coating it would be perfect

I decided it's time to stop relying on my (failing) eyesight trying to check neck relief by pressing strings and purchased the 18" straightedge. Guess what? It's really straight! I spent the first 30 minutes going around the house to see what else is straight (quite a few countertops, etc.), but I have to admit that being able to check relief with the guitar in the correct position is absolutely better than any other method.

Well worth the expense.

A lot of people getting into Guitar Lutherie may underestimate the effectiveness of this tool but it is premium quality with absolute precision. I purchased the 8" precision straightedge and it is extremely effective for all of my fretting and leveling projects.

Good