Scale Length

The scale length of a stringed instrument is the effective length of the open string between its end points. That is the length that is free to vibrate if not stopped in any way. The scale length measurement depends on the instrument and what it deploys as end stops. Typically it is the bridge and the nut.

Typical Scale Lengths

Instrument	From	To
Violin	12"	14"
Mandolin	13"	16"
Viola	15"	17"
Balalaika	15"	17"
Mandola	16"	19"
Octave Mandolin (Octave Mandola)	20"	23"
Short Scale Tenor Banjo	20"	22"
Tenor Banjo	22"	23"
Guitar	21"	27"
Bouzouki	24"	27"
Mandocello	24"	26"
5-string Banjo	24"	30"
Plectrum Banjo	24"	30"
Double Bass	40"	42"

One Inch (1") is approx 2.5 cms