Mandolin Wide Nut vs. Standard Nut: What's the Difference?

When ordering a Northfield mandolin, you'll encounter a choice between standard and wide nut options across most of their model lines. While this decision generates considerable discussion among players, understanding the actual differences can help you make an informed choice.

The Technical Difference

Northfield's standard nut measures 1-1/8" (1.125"), while the wide nut option measures 1-3/16" (1.1875").

This 1/16" difference represents about a 5.2% increase in width, which translates to slightly more spacing between the string pairs.

Playability Considerations

The extra spacing in a wide nut primarily affects how your fretting hand interacts with the strings.

Players often notice the difference most when performing intricate single-note melodies or complex chord work, where the additional space can reduce accidental contact between fingers and adjacent strings.

When it comes to picking, the difference is generally less noticeable since the string spacing at the bridge remains unchanged.

 However, these benefits are modest and the difference isn't dramatic enough to fundamentally change your playing capabilities.

Player Preferences

Over the years, I've observed wide nuts become increasingly popular among mandolin players.

Players with larger hands or thicker fingers frequently report that the wide nut feels more comfortable, but plenty of players with average-sized hands also appreciate the extra space and find it more forgiving.

Those coming from guitar often find the wider spacing more comfortable, even though mandolin string spacing remains much tighter than guitar.

However, hand size isn't necessarily predictive. Many players with larger hands play standard nuts comfortably, while some with smaller hands prefer the wide option. Playing style and personal preference often matter more than physical dimensions.

Making Your Choice

In our experience, the nut width decision is less critical than many online discussions suggest, and most players adapt to either option after a short adjustment period. The wide nut has gained popularity because many players find the extra spacing feels more forgiving and comfortable, which is why we stock more wide nut instruments. [these two sentences kind of contradict each other, don't they?]

Both options work well for all playing styles, and your playing will adapt to whichever option you choose. [this feels a bit dismissive of the entire premise of the article]