The Beam Premium Wood Dreadnought Guitar Case uses a wood shell construction and is presented with plush lining and sturdy hardware on the product page. The Beam ABS Dreadnought Guitar Case uses an ABS shell construction and is presented with internal plush lining and robust hardware on the product page.
Why Accurate Measurement Matters
A correct fit prevents the guitar from shifting inside the case and avoids stress to the instrument. Too much movement increases the chance of damage in transit. Too-tight a fit may press on binding, the neck or the finish. Measuring carefully ensures you select the best suited case that offers secure, safe storage and transport.
What Measurements You Need
Collect the following measurements before ordering a case:
- Overall length from the tip of the headstock to the bottom edge of the body
- Lower bout width (the widest part of the body)
- Upper bout width (the width nearer the neck)
- Body depth or thickness at the deepest point
- Neck width at the nut and/or where the neck meets the body
- Bridge to endpin distance (useful for internal pad or support placement)
Step-by-Step Measuring Guide
Step 1: Overall Length
Place the guitar on a flat surface. Measure from the farthest point of the headstock (including tuner heads if they extend) down to the bottommost point of the guitar body. Record this as the total length.
Step 2: Lower Bout Width
Measure across the widest part of the body (the lower bout), from one side to the other. Keep the tape measure straight and level for an accurate reading.
Step 3: Upper Bout Width
Measure across the upper bout, where the guitar body meets the neck area. This ensures the case contours will clear this area comfortably.
Step 4: Body Depth
Measure from the front soundboard to the back of the guitar at its deepest point. Check a couple of positions (for example near the bridge and near the waist) and use the largest value for clearance planning.
Step 5: Neck Width
Measure the neck width at the nut and, if possible, where the neck joins the body. This helps confirm the neck pocket in the case will have adequate clearance for tuners, any decorative inlays or a truss rod cover.
Step 6: Bridge to Endpin
Measure the distance from the bridge saddle to the endpin or strap button on the lower bout. This may be important for internal supports and the position of any padding or compartments in the case.
How to Use Your Measurements to Confirm Fit
General guidance when comparing measurements:
- Allow a small clearance margin around width and depth so the guitar does not bind when placed into the case.
- Ensure the neck pocket has clearance for headstock shape and tuner buttons.
- If any measurement exceeds the known internal clearance, the case is likely not suitable.
Paytons Pro Tips
When assessing fit, avoid forcing the instrument into the case. A small amount of space around the guitar prevents stress to the instrument and allows room for internal padding.
- Measure carefully using a rigid ruler, calipers or measuring tape and write each dimension down.
- Compare your measurements to the case internal dimensions where available.
- Consider the differences in shell material when choosing between the Beam Premium Wood and Beam ABS models.
Explore the Beam Guitar Case Range:
View Beam ABS Dreadnought Guitar Case