Great video Jake! I would like to point out, with regard to the cradle style straps, they will pick up moisture in high humidity areas. It will do a number on plated components whether tarnish on the nickel plated components or plated steel components.
Very informative video Jake, as usual. Just wish you had recorded it a couple months ago because I bought me a nice Lakota cradle strap. It’s super comfortable but it does exactly like what you and Scott Sweet (above) said as far as positioning the banjo on the body. I’m not happy. So now I’m trying to figure out how to convert it into a non-cradle strap. Or sell it half price to someone who would like this style!
Another very informative video Jake. As a very long term guitarist (55 years playing) and a newbie banjo player these basic videos are awesome.
Thanks so much-a very good video. Believe it or not, I never really knew what a ‘cradle strap’ was!
Jake—Love your expertise and sharing. Would you consider doing a piece on how to figure the length of string when replacing mandolin strings. Understand how to do so with guitar, using the tuning pegs but is there a like method for doing so with mandolins? Thanks for what you do. You are much appreciated.—Helen
Any strap that attaches below the horizontal centerline of the banjo in playing position is a very bad idea. It will not just lean away from you it will flip completely over unless you are holding it in place. Like when tucking the 5th string under railroad spikes. 40 years of playing and performing and 15 years building banjos I’ve found this out first hand. Cradle straps bad, above the centerline good.
Thanks Jake. Great material as always. I have the neoprene strap but instead of threading through the post, I threaded through the rim. Should I change me strap end location to the posts?
Thanks Jake very informative. One question. Can those neotech straps with those clips, handle the weight of heavy banjos or are they more geared to open backs?
Sorry to change subject. I purchased a new Deering Cailco Banjo in 2003. I have never changed head, whicj now has a few autograph on it. In couple spots I have worn frosting completely off. Do I need to replace head. Since the Calico is designed to be very bright how would mellow it a bit and is that a good idea. Thanks Bob
Thank you very informative
John Mills
January 14, 2023
So, I am looking to buy my first strap for my first banjo, to keep it on position while I play. I don’t necessarily need to spend half the amount of the banjo. Recording King RKH-05.