StewMac Pre-Cut Pre-Radiused Fretwire Set 16ft Radius - Ready

In this review of the StewMac Pre-Cut and Pre-Radiused Fretwire Set the bottom line is simple: this kit is for luthiers and hobbyists who value time saved and consistent results. The set ships as 24 pre-cut, pre-radiused pieces sized for a 16' radius so there is no need for further shaping, and the build from 18% nickel-silver gives a durable playing surface. For anyone doing multiple fret jobs or wanting to replace frets with predictable fit and finish, this package removes several tedious steps while maintaining professional materials and tolerances.

Key Features

• Pre-Radiused to 16' Radius: Each fret is shaped to fit a 16' fingerboard arc so installers can avoid sanding or pressing to radius before seating the wire.
• Pre-Cut to 2.75' (70mm): The 24 pieces arrive trimmed for efficient installation, reducing measuring and cutting time for standard fret jobs.
• Medium/Medium Profile: The medium crown and medium tang profile provide a familiar balance of playability and bending stability for most electric guitars.
• 18% Nickel-Silver Construction: Durable alloy construction resists wear while still allowing straightforward dressing and polishing after installation.
• Two Width Options: Available in 0.084' and 0.092' widths to match different fretboard edge treatments and installer preferences.
• Proven by Manufacturers: The same style of pre-cut, pre-radiused wire has been used by top manufacturers, indicating consistent quality for production and repair work.

Who It's For

This product is aimed at repair technicians, independent luthiers, and experienced hobbyists who perform fret replacement or refret work and want to speed the process without sacrificing material quality. The pre-radiused shape and pre-cut lengths specifically benefit shops that handle multiple instruments with a 16' radius or builders who standardize on that curvature.

Those who should look elsewhere include players with uncommon fretboard radii, or anyone who needs vintage-spec fret profiles that differ from a medium/medium shape. If you require custom single-piece lengths or nonstandard alloys, a raw uncut fretwire spool may be more appropriate.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent 16' radius saves preparation time and reduces fitting errors.
• Pre-cut 2.75' lengths speed installation and reduce measurement mistakes.
• Durable 18% nickel-silver alloy offers reliable wear resistance and easy dressing.
• Two width choices allow matching to fretboard edge and setup preferences.

Cons

• Only supplied in a 16' radius for this set, so other radius jobs require a different option.
• Medium/medium profile may not suit vintage-spec restorations that call for narrower or lower fretwire.

Specifications

Product	Pre-Cut Pre-Radiused Fretwire Set
Brand	StewMac
Radius	16' radius
Pieces	24 pieces
Length	2.75' (70mm) pre-cut
Profile	Medium/Medium
Material	18% nickel-silver

Our Verdict

The StewMac Pre-Cut and Pre-Radiused Fretwire Set is a practical, time-saving choice for anyone doing routine fretwork on 16' radius instruments. Its pre-cut lengths, reliable alloy, and medium profile make it great value for shops and builders who want predictable fit and faster turnarounds, though specialists needing other radii or vintage profiles should choose a different option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these frets fit a 16' radius maple fretboard?
Yes, the wires are pre-radiused to 16' and are intended to fit common 16' radius fingerboards without additional shaping.

Are the frets ready to install out of the package?
They are pre-cleaned and pre-cut to 2.75' and pre-radiused, so they require only seating, trimming at the ends if needed, and finishing work.

What widths are offered in this medium profile set?
The medium/medium set is available in two widths: 0.084' and 0.092', letting you match edge treatments and fretboard styles.