How to Install Strap Locks on Your Guitar

Why install strap locks?

A guitar that slips off its strap can fall and suffer cracks in the top, dents in the body, or a broken headstock. Strap locks keep the strap firmly attached, so a sudden movement or a loose strap will not cause a drop. They are a simple insurance policy for any gigging or practicing player, especially if you play standing up for hours. A broken headstock can be expensive to repair, and a fall can also damage the finish, which affects both the look and the resale value.

The most common design is the push button lock. A metal button with a spring-loaded release replaces the round strap button, and the strap end has a locking receiver that snaps on. Once engaged, the strap cannot slide off unless you press the release. This style is easy to operate, even with one hand while playing. Many brands include two buttons and two receivers, so you can equip both strap buttons on the guitar. Some kits also include small washers to protect the finish from the button's edge.

Another reason to consider strap locks is consistency. If you play multiple guitars, you can put the receivers on your favorite straps and use them on any guitar that has the buttons. This way, you do not have to readjust your strap length every time you switch instruments. The buttons are small and unobtrusive, so they do not get in the way when you set the guitar down. For heavy instruments, such as a jumbo acoustic or a solid body electric with a large neck, the added security is especially valuable. If you are unsure about the body style that suits you, check our guide on guitar body shapes and our roundup of the best electric guitars for models that work well with strap locks.

What you need

To install push button strap locks, you need a screwdriver that matches the screws already in your guitar. The strap lock kit usually includes two buttons, two receivers, and the necessary screws. Some kits include small washers to protect the finish. If the new screws are slightly larger than the original holes, you may need a small drill bit, but most kits are designed to fit the existing holes.

Before you start, check your guitar's finish. According to Martin's wood guide, different woods have different hardness, and you should be careful not to scratch the finish when removing screws. A soft cloth or towel on the work surface can help protect the guitar. Also, make sure you have good lighting and a magnifying glass if needed to see the screw heads clearly, especially if they are small or recessed.

You might also want a screwdriver with a magnetic tip to avoid dropping small screws. If you are working on an acoustic guitar with a delicate top, consider placing a piece of cardboard or a folded towel under the guitar to prevent sliding. For electric guitars, you can rest the instrument on a workbench or a sofa. The key is to work in a stable position so that you do not accidentally scratch the body with the screwdriver.

Step-by-step installation

Place the guitar on a soft surface, such as a towel or a dedicated workbench. Remove the two existing strap buttons using the screwdriver, turning counterclockwise. Keep the original screws and buttons in a safe place in case you want to revert later. Some guitars have a strap button on the neck heel and another at the endpin. On acoustics, the endpin is the main attachment point, and on many electrics, you will find a button on the upper bass side of the body as well.

Attach the new strap lock buttons. Depending on the kit, you may need to insert a small bushing or sleeve into the hole before screwing in the button. Ensure the button is oriented so the release faces the strap. Tighten the screw until it is snug, but do not overtighten, as this can strip the hole or crack the finish. If the screw does not grip well, try a slightly longer screw or use a toothpick with wood glue to enlarge the hole, as described in our guide on fixing a stripped screw hole. Once the button is secure, attach the receiver to the strap end, aligning the slot with the strap material, and press it onto the button until it clicks.

• Remove the old strap buttons with a screwdriver.
• Insert any provided bushing or sleeve into the hole.
• Screw in the new button hand-tight, then snug with the screwdriver.
• Repeat for the second button at the other strap location.
• Attach the receiver to the strap (usually a small metal or plastic piece).
• Press the receiver onto the button until you feel it lock.
• Test the connection by gently pulling the strap away from the guitar.

Acoustic and electric guitars

The installation process is identical for most acoustic and electric guitars. Acoustic guitars often have a strap button at the endpin, which is the main strap attachment point. Electric guitars typically have a strap button at the neck heel and another at the endpin. Check that the new buttons clear any control knobs or jack plates. On a Fender Stratocaster, for example, the endpin button is located near the output jack, and you need to make sure the strap receiver does not interfere with the cable connection.

If you have an acoustic-electric with an endpin jack, you cannot simply remove the endpin because it houses the output jack. In this case, use a strap lock that fits over the endpin or replace the jack nut with a locking nut. The Martin electronics guide describes the components inside an acoustic-electric system, so you know what to avoid when working around the endpin. If your guitar has a built-in tuner or preamp, you should also be careful not to disconnect any wires. Our guide on acoustic guitar pickup types can help you understand the electronics system.

Acoustic guitars come in many body shapes, from parlor to jumbo, as detailed in Martin's acoustic types guide. A larger body may feel heavier on your shoulder, so a secure strap lock becomes even more valuable. For jumbo or dreadnought guitars, the strap lock can prevent the strap from sliding off the endpin during a heavy strumming pattern. If you play a smaller guitar like a parlor or concert, the strap lock is still a good idea, but you may not need the extra security as much. For more on body sizes and how they affect playability, see our comparison of travel vs full-size guitars.

Common issues and fixes

If the strap lock keeps loosening, the screw may not be gripping the wood well. This can happen if the hole was stripped by the original button or if you overtightened the new one. To fix it, remove the button, fill the hole with a wooden toothpick and wood glue, and reinsert the screw. Alternatively, you can use a larger screw or a metal insert. Our detailed guide on fixing a pulled-out strap button covers several repair methods.

If the button pulls out completely, the screw is likely too short or the wood is soft. Use a longer screw, or fill the hole with a hardwood dowel and drill a pilot hole. For guitars with a thin body, such as some acoustic-electric models, the screw may reach the inside of the body, so be careful not to damage the internal wiring or pickups. If you are unsure, consult a professional luthier.

Another issue is that the strap receiver may be too loose on the button, causing it to rotate or fall off. This usually happens if the receiver is not fully pressed onto the button. Push it until you hear a click. Some receivers have a set screw that you can tighten to secure the strap material. Make sure that set screw is snug before mounting.

Sometimes the strap itself is too thick or thin for the receiver. If the strap is thick, you may need to trim the leather or use a wider receiver. Conversely, if the strap is thin, the receiver may slide off. In that case, you can add a piece of felt or use a strap with a more substantial end. For more on strap-related maintenance, see our guide on how to replace guitar strap buttons. If you are experiencing more serious hardware issues, such as a loose endpin jack, our article on guitar output jack types can help you identify the right repair.

Alternative strap locking methods

While push button locks are the most common, there are other ways to secure your strap. One traditional method is to use a thin rubber washer, like those from Grolsch beer bottles, around the original strap button. These washers grip the button and prevent the strap from slipping off. They are inexpensive and do not require any modification, but they are not as secure as a push button lock and can wear out over time.

Another option is a strap system that uses a belt-like mechanism, where the strap wraps around the button and secures with a snap or velcro. These are often easier to install but may be bulkier. Some players prefer a strap that has built-in locking clips, which attach directly to the existing buttons without replacing them. These clips are generally less expensive but can be difficult to remove if you want to switch straps quickly.

For players who frequently switch between many guitars, having strap locks on every instrument may not be practical. In that case, using a strap with locking clips that fit over standard buttons might be more convenient. However, these clips can sometimes rotate and come loose. If you play live, the security of push button locks is often worth the extra effort. For a recommendation on which guitars to consider with these hardware upgrades, see our affordable guitars guide or best beginner guitars if you are just starting out.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I install strap locks on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, most acoustic guitars have standard strap buttons. For acoustic-electric models with an endpin jack, use a compatible strap lock that fits over the jack or replace the jack nut with a locking nut.

Do I need to drill new holes?

Usually not. Most kits use the existing holes. If the new screws are thicker, you may need to ream the holes slightly, but this is uncommon.

How tight should the screw be?

Snug but not overly tight. Overtightening can strip the hole or crack the finish. Stop as soon as the button is firm and immobile.

Will strap locks damage my guitar?

No, if installed correctly. They replace the existing buttons, and you can revert to the originals later. Just be careful not to strip the screw holes.

What if my strap button is already loose?

Remove the button, put a bit of wood glue on a toothpick, insert it into the hole, break off the toothpick, and reinstall. Alternatively, use a slightly larger screw.

Can I use the same strap lock on both acoustic and electric guitars?

Yes, as long as the buttons are the same size. Many players use the same strap with receivers on all their guitars, provided they install the buttons on each instrument.

Are push button strap locks hard to use on stage?

No, they are designed for one-hand operation. Press the release and the strap comes off; press the strap onto the button and it locks. With a little practice, you can change straps during a performance quickly.