Are headstock straps worth trying?

Marty Grass · #1 01-01-2012, 10:37 AM

Much of the weight on a strap is from the right arm pressing on the guitar top. After a while that pressure on the back of the left side of my neck gets annoying. It's not unbearable, but if I could get rid of that pressure digging in on my neck, it would be a good thing.

I've used 3" straps, which help. But I noticed that Wes used a headstock strap. That distributes the neck and shoulder pressure over a larger surface. I've never tried one but wonder what the pros and cons are.

Any suggestions on where to get an attachment that wraps around the headstock or suggestions on how to wrap the headstock?

Thanks.

OldGuitarPlayer · #2 01-01-2012, 10:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marty Grass

Much of the weight on a strap is from the right arm pressing on the guitar top. After a while that pressure on the back of the left side of my neck gets annoying. It's not unbearable, but if I could get rid of that pressure digging in on my neck, it would be a good thing.

I've used 3" straps, which help. But I noticed that Wes used a headstock strap. That distributes the neck and shoulder pressure over a larger surface. I've never tried one but wonder what the pros and cons are.

Any suggestions on where to get an attachment that wraps around the headstock or suggestions on how to wrap the headstock?

Thanks.

Planet Waves makes a quick release device for this purpose.
Planet Waves Quick-Release Guitar Strap System

So does Martin Guitar Company.
Amazon.com: Martin Guitar Leather Strap Button: Musical Instruments

mangotango · #3 01-01-2012, 12:12 PM

Each to their own. It just looks ugly, to my eye.

cosmic gumbo · #4 01-01-2012, 05:59 PM

I traded in my strap for a chair long ago.

ah.clem · #5 01-01-2012, 09:03 PM

+1 on the Planet Waves Quick-Release; I use them on all my flat top instruments.

Rusty Tele · #6 01-02-2012, 06:39 PM

IMHO I've found a headstock strap to be uncomfortable. I have a severe back injury which interferes with playing I too traded a strap for a chair a while ago. I'd rather play comfortably rather than emmulate anyone else's style this is why each one of us can be unique!

lkmuller · #7 01-02-2012, 06:59 PM

Hmmm, I don't think I'd like the headstock of my guitar carrying even a portion of the weight of the instrument. I have a 335 and I'd rather have a stiff neck than a broken headstock. A good strap should help.

pauln · #8 01-17-2012, 08:35 PM

I use one - it is actually a mandolin strap that is just the right length for a jazz box headstock strap. The surprising thing is that it is light and easy on the shoulder and there is very little pull on the strap from the headstock. I originally did it for the look, but now I'll never go back; it's just too comfortable and natural feeling.