How To Adjust the Action on Your Electric Guitar

In this episode of "Gibson's Guide to Guitar Setup and Maintenance," Gibson Master Luthier Jim DeCola demonstrates the correct way to adjust the action on your electric guitar. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, Jim will give you pro tips on action adjustment and how to measure it accurately.
The action on your guitar determines the overall playability of your instrument. In general, if your action is too high, your guitar may feel difficult to play. If your action is too low, it may result in string buzzing. Other factors in setting your action can include the guitar you’re using, your choice of strings and the style of music you’re playing.
Watch as Jim explains exactly what the action on your guitar means, how different guitar strings may affect action and how the genre you play may dictate how high or low your guitar's action should be. In addition, Jim gives you practical advice on how to setup your Les Paul guitar, how to take measurements when setting the action in 64ths of an inch as well as advice on how to adjust a tune-o-matic bridge thumbscrew as well as a tune-o-Matic bridge with hex wrench fixture as found on a Gibson Flying V. It's worth noting, that although Jim is showing you how top adjust the action on a Les Paul, these tips are transferrable to most guitars. Electric guitar action adjustment doesn't need to be complicated, it just takes a little time and some patience, and with Jim DeCola's advice, your guitar will be ready to play in no time!