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Howdy. Planning on installing a strap button on my Collings A. Looking for something that is a middle ground between security, and looks (or better yet, minimal visibility). I really like the wooden ones on Stew Mac, but shipping is almost twice the price of the actual button. What have ya'll used and liked? Anyone a fan of the Dulop Straplock system?
I have two mandolins that had strap buttons on the neck when I got them. I took them off as I don't like them. I anchor to the headstock, under the strings, around the headstock, and over a tuning knob. Goes on and off easily, is out of the way and I like the support better. The button on the neck, to me, is in the way when playing up the neck. Not that I hang out there a lot, but when I do I don't want it in the way.
Not answering your question, but another option.
Though I do use strap locks on my electric guitars and basses, I don’t think l’d personally put strap locks on a small light weight instrument like a mandolin. I usually attached my straps under or over the strings at the headstock and I’ve also attached them at the body. Just my two cents.
Here’s some pics.Attachment 184047Attachment 184048Attachment 184049
Here is what I do:
Attachment 184053Attachment 184054
Try your local instrument store for the part. Bet they have a wood one for $15 or less
Thanks for the suggestions. I have done that in the past where i tie it around the headstock. Not my favorite, but ill try it again (it has been a while). I currently have it tied around the base of the neck, just worry about the finish rubbing. Ill try a few things (and hit up the local instrument store). Thanks to ALL for the suggestions!
Here's one I like. NFI
Look around for singles.
The Waverly buttons at Stewmac are really nicer than anything out there. The shipping seems high but if you can figure out a few more things you need that goes down. I finally just bit the bullet and ordered several of them so I'd have them around when I needed them. You won't find anything as nice at your local store.
When I'm using a metal button I go for the old Gibson style nickel plated buttons sold by All-Parts. I replace the screw with a much shorter slot head screw (generally stainless) so it looks more like a vintage item. I generally get a shorter screw for the Waverly buttons as well. What they sell is way too long for most acoustic applications. Either way get what you want or you'll regret it and change it later anyway. You have a nice mandolin, no sense in cheaping out because of the freight.
Loop under the extension is the way to go. Lp
I got mine from Elderly Instruments. It was pretty inexpensive, but looks nice and is low profile. It's stainless steel or some kind of metal. They had a few different options. I installed myself with no problems. Do a little research first as there are a few tricks I wouldn't have thought of that make the process go more smoothly.
I tried the strap around the headstock and base of the neck and it's not for me. I'm very happy with the strap button. I put it in the usual location around the bottom side of the neck. Let me know and I can send a pic.
I love these buttons. No screw showing. Lots of wood choices and options like MOP.
Easy install w/ tapping tool.
https://www.amazon.com/Iluak-Ivory-F...ument+Fittings
Jazzjune, I'd rather buy a used mandolin with finish rubbed, than an installed strap button
My Breedlove got a strap button that was what the local luthier had in stock. It's black and metal, not exciting but it works just great.Quote:
Originally Posted by jazzjune18
For my Collings I got a wood one and provided that the luthier who was happy to use it. I seem to recall it was overpriced - but much cheaper than the BlueChip pick I tried, moderately like, and lost into the wood decking at a gig.
I vastly prefer how the mandolin balances with a strap button, how combined with the tone gard my mandolin is in a perfect place to play ergonomically. I even use the strap sitting as I find no problems playing for 3+ hours with a strap, whereas that sort of time without a strap leaves my wrist sore the next day.
To each their own. I prefer mine and as I'm unlikely to ever upgrade further I'm happy installing what I want on my lifer instrument.
Why not just post one? That way everyone can benefit from what you've done.Quote:
Originally Posted by Stevo75
Stewmac used to sell a very similar button. Nice to see another source for these. Thanks.Quote:
Originally Posted by Bunnyf
I've done and do that on every A I've had but the OP didn't want that :cool:Quote:
Originally Posted by Lane Pryce
https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/t...ton-no-problem
I have used a cord looped around the strap button,
and another loop I just put over a tuner shaft..
(Mostly I use a Chair)
My Carbon Mix came with a strap button, i simply changed it to one I liked better..
I bought one of Stew Mac's buttons from when they used a blind screw stud,
that was not seen once it was fitted, It went on my (Guild) guitar..
that one was a professional install ..
Solo Mandolin Icon Evan Marshall bypasses the Scroll on his F5 for the end of the headstock ,
Because , I assume, it puts the instrument in his most advantageous playing position..
He also uniquely glues the pick to his fingertip, so as to get the ideal loose grip..
he said that, when I asked, in person.
Gryphon had some really nice, really expensive wood ones. Bailey straps, and I’m sure others, uses one leather bootlace sized loop and a little leather disk that cinches very tight. It’s not going to slip.
I use the Waverly tortoise button on my Collings MT - https://www.stewmac.com/Hardware_and...ap_Button.html
Purchased a few so it's not as silly with the shipping.
Here's mine - a bit lighter than the binding and pickguard. But it's a nice addition to the instrument, IMO
Attachment 184110
I would go the loop/tie around the heel/under end of fret board route. If the strap you want to use doesn't allow that then there are some good recommendations here.
I have some nice Bone and Buffalo Horn strap buttons if you want any. I have a lot of pieces of good leather also lace if you would rather tie around.
A plus 1 on Lane’s method. Works great! DanQuote:
Originally Posted by Lane Pryce
One thing to keep in mind. The guys at Gryphon put mine on, and they had to shorten the screw as it hit the truss rod. But I like the wood button. Shiny metal on a mandolin just doesn’t look right to me.
Stew Mac Used to have a blind stud, in the button, so no screw head visible.. as mentioned in #18 above..
It is possible to counter sink the screw hole just a little deeper, in the button.
... then once the button is screwed on , fill the recess created, with a dot of veneer*, over the screwhead..
Or MOP ?
...
I see my fortune, custom turning wood strap buttons with a recessed screw, leave a shoulder for the MOP or abalone.Quote:
Originally Posted by mandroid
Could sell ones of them:)