Measure your First Act guitar from the headstock to the body end

The simplest way to measure a First Act guitar is to lay it flat on a table and measure in a straight line from the tip of the headstock to the end of the body. Use a tape measure or a ruler marked in inches. This total length tells you the guitar's scale — the measurement First Act uses to label their models.

First Act guitars come in three main sizes: 30 inches (1/4 size, for young children), 36 inches (1/2 size, for older children and small adults), and 40 inches (full size, for most teenagers and adults). If your measurement falls between these numbers, round to the nearest size to identify which First Act model you own or are considering.

Write down your measurement before you shop or contact First Act customer service. Having the exact number saves time when you are looking for replacement strings, cases, or parts that fit your specific model.

Key Takeaways

  • Measure from the headstock tip to the body end in a straight line to find your First Act guitar's total length.
  • First Act makes 30-inch, 36-inch, and 40-inch models, and your measurement will match one of these sizes.
  • A tape measure works best, but a ruler or even a piece of string you can mark and measure later will work.
  • Knowing your exact size matters when buying strings, cases, straps, and capos that must fit your guitar.

Why guitar size matters for playing comfort

A guitar that is too large for your hands and body makes playing painful and slows your progress. Your fingers should reach the frets without stretching, and your arm should rest naturally on the body. If you are buying for a child, a guitar that is too big will sit awkwardly and cause them to quit.

First Act sizes are designed around age and hand size. The 1/4 size fits children ages 4 to 7, the 1/2 size fits ages 8 to 12, and the full 40-inch size fits most people 13 and older. If you fall between sizes, the smaller guitar is usually the safer choice — it is easier to outgrow than to struggle with something too large.

Measuring the scale length separately from total length

Scale length is the distance from the nut (the white piece at the headstock) to the bridge (the piece holding the strings on the body). This number is different from total guitar length and matters when you buy replacement strings. First Act scale lengths are typically 19 inches (1/4 size), 23 inches (1/2 size), and 25.5 inches (full size).

To measure scale length, place a ruler along the strings from the nut to the bridge. Measure in a straight line down the center of the neck. This number is printed on First Act spec sheets and on the box if you still have it, so you can also look it up instead of measuring.

When you order strings online, the seller will ask for scale length, not total guitar length. Using the wrong number means the strings will be too long or too short and will not fit properly.

Finding your First Act model number on the guitar itself

First Act prints a model number on the back of the headstock or on a label inside the body. The number usually starts with "FA" followed by digits — for example, FA-125 or FA-200. This model number is faster than measuring because you can look it up on First Act's website or on retailer sites to find the exact size and specifications.

If the label is worn or missing, the measurement method is your backup. Write the model number down once you find it so you have it for future reference when you need parts or service information.

Measuring body width and depth for case and strap fit

Total length is not the only measurement that matters. The body width (measured across the widest part of the body) and body depth (measured from the front to the back of the body) determine whether a case will fit and how a strap will hang.

Most First Act cases are sized to match the guitar size — a 1/4 size case fits a 1/4 size guitar, and so on. If you are buying a universal or padded gig bag, measure the body width and depth and compare them to the bag's interior dimensions. A strap should rest comfortably on your shoulder; if the body is very wide, the strap may slip or dig in.

What to do if your First Act guitar is a non-standard size

Some First Act models sold at retailers like Walmart or Target are made in limited runs and may not match the standard 30, 36, or 40-inch sizes exactly. If your measurement does not land on one of these three numbers, check the model number first — it will tell you the intended size category even if the actual measurement is slightly different.

If you cannot find the model number and your measurement is unusual, contact First Act's customer service with your model number or a photo of the guitar. They can tell you the correct size and point you to compatible strings, cases, and parts. Having your measurement ready will speed up the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I measure my First Act guitar with the strings on or off?

Measure with the strings on. The strings do not add meaningful length, and removing them is unnecessary. If the strings are broken or missing, measure anyway — the total length of the wood does not change.

Can I use a phone camera to measure my guitar instead of a tape measure?

Not accurately. A photo will distort the perspective and give you a wrong number. A tape measure, ruler, or even a piece of string marked at each end and then measured separately will work. The measurement takes two minutes and is worth doing right.

What if my First Act guitar measures between two standard sizes?

Round to the nearest standard size. If you measure 38 inches, call it a 36-inch (1/2 size) or 40-inch (full size) depending on which is closer. This matters most for strings — buying the wrong scale length will cause fit problems.

Do I need to measure my guitar if I still have the original box?

No. The box will have the model number and size printed on it. Look for "1/4 size," "1/2 size," or "full size" on the label. If the box is gone, measuring takes less time than searching for it.

Will measuring my guitar tell me if it is damaged or warped?

No. Measuring gives you the overall length only. A warped neck or body will not show up in a length measurement. If you suspect damage, have a guitar teacher or repair person look at it in person.