7 String Guitar String Gauges Explained
Updated Nov 12, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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On a 7-string guitar the gauges run from a high string down to a thick low string. Sets are named by numbers such as 10-56, 11-64, 10-62 or 10-65: the opening number is the thinnest string and the closing number is the thickest. Match the gauge to the low string tuning and to how much bend you want.
What the numbers on a set mean
A 7-string set is named by numbers such as 10-56, 11-64, 10-62 or 10-65. The opening number names the thinnest string and the closing number names the thickest string, which is the lowest string on a 7-string guitar. Read the numbers as a range: a 10-56 set and an 11-64 set differ at each end, so compare the full set of numbers when you shop. The word Heavy on the Skinny Top Heavy Bottom pack names its gauge class, while the NYXL1164 is listed at Medium.
Why the low string runs thick
The lowest string on a 7-string guitar carries the lowest notes, so it needs the most thickness to hold tension at pitch. That is why the closing numbers here reach 56, 62, 64 and 65 while the opening numbers stay at 10 or 11. A thin low string will feel slack and will not hold its pitch, while a thick low string holds its pitch. Judge the low end by the closing number, not by the name on the pack.
Skinny top, heavy bottom
Skinny Top Heavy Bottom sets mix thin high strings with a thick low end, for players who bend on the high strings and want weight on the low strings. The Ernie Ball 7-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom set runs 10-62, against 10-56 for the Regular Slinky, so the low end is thicker while the high end stays the same. The maker describes it as the mix for lead players who bend for solo work with a heavy bottom end for rhythm and chords. If you bend a lot on the high strings, keep the opening number low; if you want more weight low down, raise the closing number.
Match the set to the tuning
Start from the tuning you plan to use, then pick a set built for it. The Jim Dunlop Heavy Core Korn set is listed for optimal tension when drop-tuned, and the D'Addario NYXL1164 is listed for 7-string electric guitars. Check the gauge printed on the pack and the tuning the maker lists for the set before you buy. When in doubt, ask a repair shop which gauge suits your guitar and tuning, since the nut slots need to fit the thicker strings.
When to change the strings
Change strings when they show wear, not by the calendar. Look for discolored or rough strings, rust on the wrap wire, and strings that no longer hold tune. Playing a lot, and playing where your hands sweat, wears strings faster, so check them and change them when the signs appear. Wipe the strings with a soft dry cloth after playing to keep sweat and dust off the wrap wire. Keep a spare set on hand so a broken string does not end a session.
What you need
Ernie Ball 7-String Regular Slinky Nickel Wound
A nickel wound 7-string electric set at 10-56 gauge, with Element Shield packaging the maker lists as keeping strings fresh.
- Material: Nickel Wound
D'Addario NYXL1164 Electric Guitar Strings
A nickel-plated steel 7-string electric set at 11-64 gauge, listed for enhanced tuning stability and greater strength.
- Material: Nickel-Plated Steel
Ernie Ball 7-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom
A nickel wound 7-string electric set at 10-62 gauge, pairing a skinny top for bending with a heavy bottom for rhythm and chords.
- Material: Nickel Wound
Jim Dunlop Heavy Core Korn Guitar Strings
A nickel 7-string electric set at 10-65 gauge, tailored to 7-string guitars and listed for optimal tension when drop-tuned.
These come from our ranked list Best 7 String Guitar Strings, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
What gauge is the low string on a 7-string set?
It depends on the set: the Ernie Ball Regular Slinky closes at 56, the Skinny Top Heavy Bottom at 62, the D'Addario NYXL1164 at 64, and the Jim Dunlop Heavy Core Korn at 65. The closing number on the pack is the gauge of the lowest string.
Can I use a 6-string set on a 7-string guitar?
No. Buy a set the maker lists for 7-string electric guitars, such as the sets in this guide.
What does 10-62 mean on a string pack?
It names the gauge range of the set: the opening number is the thinnest string and the closing number is the thickest. On the Skinny Top Heavy Bottom set, 10 is the high string and 62 is the low string.
Do I need a different set for drop tuning?
A heavier closing number holds tension better when the tuning drops, so check the tuning the maker lists for the set. The Jim Dunlop Heavy Core Korn set is listed for optimal tension when drop-tuned.
Ranked guitar strings lists
More how-to guides
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