I like locking systems because I can conveniently clip my strap onto my guitar before a gig. During the gig I know that no matter what my guitar won’t come loose from my strap. I’ve always found locking systems to be quick and easy.
I usually have a locking system installed on my main guitars. I don’t throw my guitar behind my back like Yngwie Malmsteen, but I like the other benefits a locking system provides. I also think it’s visually more appealing than regular strap holders.
I see many professional players that don’t use a locking system. Personally I have never had a regular guitar strap come loose during a gig. Using a regular strap means you can easily share one strap across many of your guitars.
The down side of using locking straps is that you can only use one particular strap with the locking system installed on your guitar. This is because the clips attach to your strap and are not easily removable. Another down side is if you lose your strap at your gig or forget it at home, you won’t be able to use a regular guitar strap with your guitar.
When should you use a locking system? The most obvious reason for using one is the ability to make sure your guitar can never come loose from your strap. This is great if you want to throw your guitar around like guitar legend Yngwie Malmsteen and others. Is it essential to have one? The answer is a definite no.
Do you prefer using a locking system? Let us know in the comments section below.
