how do i measure action?

[billbo]

I messed with the action of my "A" type mando, and found that a bit higher action really made a richer, louder tone and chop. Is there a universally accepted way to measure and describe string action highth, like maybe a measurement at the 12th fret, or something that will give me an idea of what is high, med, or low action? Thanks-Bill

I would consider 3/32" at the 12th a medium with 1/16" being a low action. That's measuring from the top of the fret to the bottom of the string. Somewhere between 1/16" & 3/32" seems about right on most mandos on the G string with the E being a little lower. The bridge does not have to be level (as in same height for the E as the G string)...

[billbo]

Thanks, Dale. That is exactly what I wanted to know.