Guitar question..bridge pins vs. end pins?

Question:I'm doing some Christmas shopping for my boyfriend, who is obsessed with his guitar. What's the difference between bridge pins and end pins? Or are they the same thing? Please help!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I'm doing some Christmas shopping for my boyfriend, who is obsessed with his guitar. What's the difference between bridge pins and end pins? Or are they the same thing? Please help!

The end pin of a guitar is the larger peg inserted in the bottom of the instrument to which the guitar strap is attached. Often, the end pin is replaced by an electronic 1/4 inch jack receptacle that accepts the amplifier cable connection.

Bridge pins, as others have explained, are plastic, bone, or metal inserts that hold down the string end loops inside the bridge.

Thank you, Bella, for selecting my reply as best. I've heard of good results of tone and sustain from both walrus and ox bone. Walrus bone might be the most expensive because of its gathering and refining.

Other Answers (3)

Show:

="shown">

by gordonsm...

Member since:: November 20, 2007
Total points:: 148 (Level 1)

="network">

Add to My Contacts

Block User

he must have an acoustic. they use bridge pins to hold the strings in, are usually made of plastic and are relatively inexpensive. I never heard of end pins.

I'm gonna have to go with Mel on this one. Bridge pins are usually made out of plastic--maybe an abalone inlay on top if they're more expensive--and hold the strings in place at the bridge of the guitar. I'll have to be honest: I've never heard of end pins before, but after some quick research, it seems that an end pin is the same as the strap button on the bottom of the guitar. Most of the Websites I looked at seem to sell bridge and end pins in a matching set.

Good luck finding him a good gift!