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Thread: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

  1. #1
    Registered User Elliot Luber's Avatar
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    Default A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    I was thinking of putting a second strap button on my A-style mandolin's neck to use a guitar-style strap. Is this a wise idea or a fool's errand?

    My biggest concern is the longevity of my mandolin. Also, is there a better place for it? I want to look before I leap. My mandolin is an Eastman A, so it's not a collector's item but it's a decent mandolin.

  2. #2
    Registered User Mark Seale's Avatar
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    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    Two options, don't worry about affecting the value if it helps you play.

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  3. #3
    Registered User Doug Brock's Avatar
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    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    I've tried different ways of tying a strap to the mandolin head, but I've never liked those solutions - they either get in my way while playing or get in my way while tuning. Some folks are fine with it, but I'm not. I ended up requesting a strap button on the heel of my latest A-body.

    I would suggest that you at least try either tying a string above the nut or between the tuners, then connecting that string to a strap. If that works for you, great! Cheap, easy solution! If it doesn't work for you, then a strap button by the heel is a good choice. Only downside is needing to drill into your mandolin.
    Doug Brock
    2018 Kimble 2 point (#259), Eastman MD315, Eastman MDA315, some guitars, banjos, and fiddles

  4. #4
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    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    I prefer looping it under the neck, as in the photo below.
    Click image for larger version. 

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    Last edited by Luna Pick; Nov-27-2019 at 6:21pm. Reason: fix image

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  6. #5
    Struggle Monkey B381's Avatar
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    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    Quote Originally Posted by Luna Pick View Post
    I prefer looping it under the neck, as in the photo below.
    Click image for larger version. 

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    That's exactly what I do.
    "It doesn't matter how much you invest in your instrument until you invest in you and your ability..."

    Kentucky KM-150
    Eastman MD-404
    Eastman MD-305
    Morgan Monroe MFM-300 (passed on to a new player)
    Rover RM-75

  7. #6

    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    An unconventional 3rd option. A 5/32" hole drilled through the heel with a bootlace threaded through it. I've done this with 4 of my mandolins now with no ill effects. Granted, I am the builder and drill the hole before shaping the neck, whereas a luthier may feel squeemish about doing it on a finished mandolin. Pros: completely out of the way and my left hand never contacts it, no matter how high up the neck I play. Con: strap attachment is semi-permanent. Strap stays on the mandolin when it goes in the case. Also, strap length is particular to me. Since I don't loan my instruments out, not an issue for me.Click image for larger version. 

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  8. #7
    Registered User Eric Platt's Avatar
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    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    My preference is on the heel. But haven't switched all mine over. And won't on at least one as it's too rare. But it's your instrument and you can do what you want to it.
    Brentrup Model 23, Boeh A5 #37, Gibson A Jr., Big Muddy M-11, Coombe Classical flattop, Strad-O-Lin
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  9. #8

    Default Re: A model: Adding a strap button to the heel.

    I had Gryphon put a wood strap button on my Silverangel and they had to shorten the screw because it hit the truss rod, so beware of that possibility. But the result is great.
    Silverangel A
    Arches F style kit
    1913 Gibson A-1

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