Almost every guitarist faces the dilemma of choosing between the right-handed and the left-handed guitar. Now the problem is that the left-handed guitars are less common. This results in the need for conversion of the standard right-handed guitar into a left-handed guitar. This process is a cost-effective one but it does require a technical understanding of the guitar components. Also, one must perform this process efficiently to ensure optimal playability and sound quality. We present to you a helpful guide on how to convert a right-handed guitar into a left-handed guitar.

Understanding the Differences Between Right-Handed and Left-Handed Guitars

Before you start the process of conversion, you must know about the structural differences between the two guitar types. The key differences between the two are:

String orientation: The right-handed guitars have a thick string Low E for the top and the thing string High E for the bottom part when a guitar is held. For a left-handed guitarist, this position will be reversed.

Nut Design: The guitar’s nut is located on the top of its fretboard to accommodate certain string gauges. This must be replaced or adjusted for the conversion process.

Bridge Setup: The saddle has compensation angels to maintain the intonation. These angles are to be modified for the left-handed guitar conversion.

Body Shape: guitar bodies often are asymmetrical which affects its ergonomics and aesthetics when converted.

Pickguard Placement: The pickguards for right-handed guitars are designed for strumming and picking with the right hand. This requires a complete removal or new adjustment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting a Right-Handed Guitar

Follow these steps to ensure an efficient and smooth conversion of a right-handed guitar to a left-handed guitar.

1.   Restringing the Guitar

This is the first step and requires reversal of the string orientation. For this, you need to remove the strings of the guitar and restring them. The Low E must be placed at the bottom whereas the High E sting to be strung at the top. Tune these strings to adjust to the left-hand tuning.

2.   Modifying or Replacing the Nut

Next comes the nut which is designed to hold certain string gauges. For a permanent conversion, replace the nut with a left-handed nut. Or, you can also file the existing nut slots to fit inside the reversed string gauges. Use a mallet to tap on the nut to remove it from the guitar’s neck. Secure a new nut in its place with an adhesive for new alignment.

3.   Adjusting the Bridge Saddle

The adjustment of the bridge saddle is important for having the right intonation for most acoustic and electric guitars, the saddle needs to be angled to offer string tension and vibration. Asses the saddle angle and if it is removable, buy a new left-handed saddle. If you can’t buy the left-handed saddle, file the guitar’s existing saddle to adjust for intonation; forming a new string orientation. With the saddle adjusted, re-tune the guitar to check its string action and intonation with the help of a chromatic tuner.

4.   Adjusting the Electronics

The tone might be affected by the pickup orientation for electric guitars. The pickups are designed to provide string vibrations for certain angels. To improve the tonal accuracy, rotating the pickups works. You must also modify the volume and tone controls for increased accessibility.

5.   Repositioning or Replacing the Pickguard

Most guitars come with a pickguard that protects their body from pick scratches. During a guitar conversion, the pickguard looks a little awkward and might interfere with strumming. To fix this, remove the pickguard with a screwdriver carefully. Now choose a pickguard designed for the left-handed guitar players to create a custom one.

6.   Addressing Body Shape and Ergonomics

The body shape of some guitars is not symmetrical which affects their playability when flipped. For a better assessment of playability, you need to hold the guitar in your left hand to test the comfort. The strap button often feels off and repositioning it offers better balance. Use the drill to secure this button in the new place.

7.   Adjusting the Truss Rod

The neck comfort is affected by the reversal of the string tension. Adjusting the truss rod offers optimal playability. Use the straightedge or the feeler gauge to measure the gap between the fretboard and the strings located at the midpoint. To reduce the relief on the truss rod, rotate its nut in a clockwise direction and vice versa. Make the small adjustments and re-check the neck for relief after every turn.

8.   Final Setup

Once each modification is done, do a thorough checkup of the setup to check the guitar’s playability. Tune the guitar and test its stability by bending the strings and playing aggressively. Test for the intonation by playing the fretted notes and harmonics on the 12th fret; adjust the saddle if needed. Also, measure the string action by measuring the string at the 12th fret height.

Alternative Solutions

If you find the conversion to be too costly or complex, there are alternative solutions like the following.

• Invest in a left-handed guitar. It might be costly but it will be a cost-effective purchase considering the long-term use.

• Some left-handed players learn to pay with the right hand without the need for conversion.

• Commission a luthier to manufacture a customized left-handed guitar for better results.

Conclusion

Conversion of the right-handed guitar into a left-handed guitar is a better option for players who don’t have access to the left-handed instruments. The process is a technical one with the removal or adjustment of various guitar components. Still, doing the conversion by oneself proves to be an enriching project for any guitar enthusiast.