7-String Drop G Gauges for a 26.5-Inch Guitar
Drop G asks a seven-string to reach baritone-adjacent territory. The extra inch of scale length is part of the setup: it helps the low G remain usable without choosing an excessively large string.
- Tuning
- G D G C F A D
- Strings
- 7
- Scale length
- 26.5 in
.011–.070 is the calculated starting point
For a 26.5-inch guitar, begin at .011–.070. This calculated set supports the low G while keeping the higher strings proportionate to the tuning.
Estimated tension at 26.5 inches
Calculated from pitch, gauge, scale length, and a plain or wound construction estimate.
Scroll sideways to see all columns.
| String | Pitch | Gauge | Build | Estimated tension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | G1 | .070 | wound | 13.7 lb |
| 6 | D2 | .052 | wound | 17.0 lb |
| 5 | G2 | .042 | wound | 19.8 lb |
| 4 | C3 | .030 | wound | 18.0 lb |
| 3 | F3 | .018 | plain | 16.0 lb |
| 2 | A3 | .014 | plain | 15.3 lb |
| 1 | D4 | .011 | plain | 16.9 lb |
Compare nearby gauges at the same pitch
The calculator holds G1 and 26.5 inches constant, then changes only the wound low-string gauge.
- .068
- 13.0 lb
- .070 Starting point
- 13.7 lb
- .072
- 14.5 lb
Use the table to make a confident adjustment
The low .070 is deliberately substantial, but it should not be interpreted as a universal requirement. A player with a light touch may prefer .068; a shorter-scale instrument may need a different compromise entirely.
Plan for the full guitar setup
- 1Measure the actual scale length before copying this recommendation to a different guitar.
- 2Have the nut checked before installing a .070 string; forcing a large string through a narrow slot can cause binding.
- 3Re-check intonation, neck relief, and action after the change.
7-string Drop G string-gauge FAQ
- What gauge should the low G be?
- On a 26.5-inch guitar, .070 is a sensible calculated starting point. Compare nearby gauges in the calculator based on your picking attack and target feel.
- Can a 25.5-inch seven-string handle Drop G?
- It can be set up for it, but the low string will generally need a different gauge and setup compromise. Enter the 25.5-inch scale length in the calculator rather than copying this table.