Strap locks are the easiest and most inexpensive way to protect your guitar. For most guitarists, this is an after-thought or not even considered, but in any situation that inolves standing and playing the guitar, strap locks are a must. Of course, buying a good, comfortable stap is the first part of the equation but even the best strap will wiggle its way off of the strap button and when you least expect it, your investment will take a hard bounce off of the floor. The hole in the strap can also become larger than the guitar’s strap button from repeated use and result in the same misfortune. Spare yourself some agony and put strap locks on all of your guitars.
The good news is that stap locks are very affordable and easy to install. A screwdriver will replace your existing stap button with the receiving end of the strap lock and needle-nose pliers will help you get most lock mechanisms onto your strap. The Loxx strap lock system even comes with its own tool and set of instructions to help with installation. As with all brands, using all of the supplied screws and hardware will ensure the most secure lock.
If the existing hole in your guitar from your original strap button is larger than the screw supplied with the new strap lock system, filling the hole is a simple process. Push the end of a wooden toothpick into the hole, break it off flush with the top of the hole. Put a drop or two of glue into the hole. Super glue, wood glue, craft glue, or most common household glues will work. Let the glue dry for the best result. The idea is not to fill the hole completely but to make it smaller so that the new screw has a snug fit.
If the thought of handling a screwdriver sends fear racing through your mind, Fender makes a product called Strap Blocks;rubber washers that utilize your existing strap button. The washers slide on the strap button after the strap and add an extra level of security, albeit maybe not as secure as a strap lock — but no mod to your existing strap buttons is required.
Most brands of strap locks are available in a variety of finishes: gold, chrome, black, nickel, brass, etc., to match your guitar’s hardware. Grover even makes them in a variety of shapes to add some style to the concept. Star, Iron Cross, Skull, and Eagle shapes are used as the visible, locking side of the unit. Dunlop and Schaller have been making strap lock systems for decades and Ernie Ball offers a product called Super Locks. By using the same brand of strap lock on every guitar, straps are interchangeable; any strap works with any guitar.
Get some peace of mind from the easiest upgrade and cheapest insurance policy for your guitars — strap locks.
